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Turning a golden anniversary into a springboard

By Jean-Eric Paquet, Ambassador of the European Union to Japan

The European Union has had a diplomatic presence in Tokyo since 1974; this bilateral partnership has the potential to deliver much more.

It is a pleasure to address the distinguished readers of this newsletter, particularly in what is a special year for our Delegation in Japan. Its predecessor was established in Tokyo as a representative office of the Commission of the European Communities back in 1974, and we celebrate our golden anniversary this year – five decades during which the world, Europe, and relations between the European Union (EU) and Japan have seen dramatic change. 

The year 1974 saw the end of the first oil crisis, and the global political and economic mood in the wake of those tumultuous months provided an impetus for efforts to build new and collaborative international relations. At the time, dialogue and cooperation between Japan and mainly West European countries in the political and economic fields were pursued closely through various consultations, but were often overshadowed by concerns over trade imbalances. Indeed, this was one of the reasons behind the establishment of the Tokyo Delegation. 

In its Diplomatic Bluebook for that year, the Japanese government acknowledged that ‘the present state of relations between Japan and Western Europe is not yet fully satisfactory’, and I am certain that governments in Europe at the time would have made a similar assessment. The paper went on to say that Tokyo ‘intends to overcome these obstacles and continue making sincere efforts for the development of economic relations with Europe’, adding that Japan ‘also intends to promote concrete cooperation in wide-ranging areas, such as science and technology, energy, and development cooperation in third countries’.

50 year logo

As our own experiences tell us, this effort toward fostering cooperation across a whole spectrum of sectors had indeed increased throughout the ensuing decades and continues to this day. I would have loved to see our predecessors on both sides marvel at the fact that the EU and Japan in February celebrated the fifth anniversary of their groundbreaking Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which created a combined market of over 550 million consumers. Between 2018 and 2022, EU-Japan trade increased by over 20% in goods and 27% in services, showing the vitality of our bilateral relationship.  This EPA remains the biggest trade deal negotiated by the EU in terms of market size, and together with the EU-Japan Strategic Partnership Agreement, symbolises the close cooperation between two like-minded partners that share fundamental values – something increasingly vital and precious at a time when the free and open rules-based international order is being challenged on multiple fronts. In this context, the EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation has been and continues to be an essential catalyst to translate these different bilateral policy partnership agreements into business cooperation opportunities for European and Japanese SMEs.

But this year’s golden anniversary should not simply be a moment to pat ourselves on the back; while we have certainly accomplished a great deal, and a good part of that in close partnership with the private sector on both sides, we should always strive to push the envelope. I am convinced there are many further areas where the EU and Japan can and should join hands, from security issues to connectivity partnerships and collaboration in research and innovation. Both Europe and Japan recognise the need to build resilient supply chains, manage new geopolitical risks and boost our shared economic prosperity; both sides are determined to enhance cooperation in these areas.  While we will see a new European Commission and European Parliament installed after the June European elections, there can be no doubt that the trajectory of EU-Japan relations will remain on course, expanding and deepening, as we explore exciting possibilities. Together with the EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation, the EU Delegation to Japan will be at the forefront of these endeavours.

Table of Content

Centre's News

From EU

From Japan

EU-Japan News

The Network News

The Network offers & requests

Calendar

for PDF version click here

is a joint venture co-financed by the European Commission and the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). Its aim is to foster the development of industrial cooperation between companies from both regions through training programmes for businesspeople, for EU and Japanese students and researchers, and through information services and an industrial dialogue. This quarterly newsletter is produced by the EU-based office of the EU-Japan Centre, and is primarily intended to provide EU/Japan-related news.

https://www.eu-japan.eu/

Centre's News

Submission of the EU-Japan Business Round Table’s 2023 Recommendations to the Japanese Government

On 16 February 2024, Nobuhiro Endo (Japan-side BRT Chair and Executive Advisor, NEC Corporation) and Christopher Thomas (Representative Director, President of Merck Ltd., Japan, representing Belén Garijo, EU-side BRT Chair) submitted the BRT’s 2023 Recommendations to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Vulcanus in Japan 2023/24 session - language school graduation ceremony

Vulcanus in Japan 2023/24 students gathered at Naganuma School for the 'End of School Reporting Ceremony' on 15 December as they successfully completed the first part of the Vulcanus programme, a four-month intensive Japanese language course in Tokyo.

Vulcanus in Japan Alumni Get Together in Tokyo

In December 2023, a group of approximately 30 people, comprising both Vulcanus Alumni and current participants, the Ambassador of the EU to Japan, and the EU-Japan Centre current and former staff, convened in Tokyo at the EU-Delegation to Japan venue.

Submission of the EU-Japan Business Round Table’s 2023 Recommendations to the Japanese Government

On 16 February 2024, Nobuhiro Endo (Japan-side BRT Chair and Executive Advisor, NEC Corporation) and Christopher Thomas (Representative Director, President of Merck Ltd., Japan, representing Belén Garijo, EU-side BRT Chair) submitted the BRT’s 2023 Recommendations to Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.

Vulcanus in Japan 2023/24 session - language school graduation ceremony

Vulcanus in Japan 2023/24 students gathered at Naganuma School for the 'End of School Reporting Ceremony' on 15 December as they successfully completed the first part of the Vulcanus programme, a four-month intensive Japanese language course in Tokyo.

Vulcanus in Japan Alumni Get Together in Tokyo

In December 2023, a group of approximately 30 people, comprising both Vulcanus Alumni and current participants, the Ambassador of the EU to Japan, and the EU-Japan Centre current and former staff, convened in Tokyo at the EU-Delegation to Japan venue.

Unlock Your Business Potential in Japan with the Get Ready for Japan Programme

Get ready to embark on a life-changing journey to Japan!

Expert interview announcement

The EU-Japan Centre is pleased to announce that our Japanese Cross-cultural expert, Dr. Parissa Haghirian, will be featured in the June edition of our newsletter.

Success stories from former GRFJ participant: Mellifera JSC

Mellifera JSC is a Bulgarian SME founded in 2016. Since then, it has been rapidly growing thanks to its focus on innovation and sustainability.

Unlock Your Business Potential in Japan with the Get Ready for Japan Programme

Get ready to embark on a life-changing journey to Japan!

Expert interview announcement

The EU-Japan Centre is pleased to announce that our Japanese Cross-cultural expert, Dr. Parissa Haghirian, will be featured in the June edition of our newsletter.

Success stories from former GRFJ participant: Mellifera JSC

Mellifera JSC is a Bulgarian SME founded in 2016. Since then, it has been rapidly growing thanks to its focus on innovation and sustainability.

European SMEs and Clusters visit the Nanotech Trade Fair with the Nanotech Mission

Nanotech mission 2024 in Tokyo: Pioneering EU Innovations Unveiled at nano tech – International Nanotechnology Exhibition and Conference!

Green Transition business mission 2024

For the second time, the EU-Japan Centre organised a Green Transition business mission to Japan for European SMEs.

The EU-Japan Centre participates in the International Space Industry Exhibition 2024

The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation through its Space. Japan Helpdesk represented 10 Space SMEs from the EU at the International Space Industry Exhibition (ISIEX) in Tokyo.

European SMEs and Clusters visit the Nanotech Trade Fair with the Nanotech Mission

Nanotech mission 2024 in Tokyo: Pioneering EU Innovations Unveiled at nano tech – International Nanotechnology Exhibition and Conference!

Green Transition business mission 2024

For the second time, the EU-Japan Centre organised a Green Transition business mission to Japan for European SMEs.

The EU-Japan Centre participates in the International Space Industry Exhibition 2024

The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation through its Space. Japan Helpdesk represented 10 Space SMEs from the EU at the International Space Industry Exhibition (ISIEX) in Tokyo.

The final Lean in Europe visit was to Toyota’s Yaris plant in Valenciennes

The final Lean in Europe visit was to Toyota Motor Manufacturing France (TMMF). Participants from a range of industries (packaging, automotive, hospitality, cork stoppers, cooking systems, piping, steel, retail, food & beverage, animal healthcare, etc.) learned how digitalisation tools support and enhance TMMF’s operations.

WCM Training Programmes: a Legacy of Passion and Dedication

Since its inception in 1992, the World Class Manufacturing (WCM) mission has evolved into a crucial platform for European entrepreneurs and managers, providing them with invaluable insights into the Japanese manufacturing culture.

Interview series: the people behind EU-Japan cooperation

Who are the people behind EU-Japan cooperation efforts? What is their story and how did they become involved in developing international cooperation? The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation is happy to introduce the fourth instalment of this series with the interview of Mrs. Christa De Kemp, Managing Director, Dujat - Dutch & Japanese Trade Federation.

The final Lean in Europe visit was to Toyota’s Yaris plant in Valenciennes

The final Lean in Europe visit was to Toyota Motor Manufacturing France (TMMF). Participants from a range of industries (packaging, automotive, hospitality, cork stoppers, cooking systems, piping, steel, retail, food & beverage, animal healthcare, etc.) learned how digitalisation tools support and enhance TMMF’s operations.

WCM Training Programmes: a Legacy of Passion and Dedication

Since its inception in 1992, the World Class Manufacturing (WCM) mission has evolved into a crucial platform for European entrepreneurs and managers, providing them with invaluable insights into the Japanese manufacturing culture.

Interview series: the people behind EU-Japan cooperation

Who are the people behind EU-Japan cooperation efforts? What is their story and how did they become involved in developing international cooperation? The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation is happy to introduce the fourth instalment of this series with the interview of Mrs. Christa De Kemp, Managing Director, Dujat - Dutch & Japanese Trade Federation.

“About Japan” Reports and Webinars

New reports and webinars have been planned within the frame of the Centre’s EU Business in Japan support.

“About Japan” Reports and Webinars

New reports and webinars have been planned within the frame of the Centre’s EU Business in Japan support.

From EU

EU and Japan sign protocol to include cross-border data flows

On behalf of the EU, the Belgian Presidency of the Council signed in January the protocol to include provisions on cross-border data flows in the agreement between the EU and Japan for an Economic Partnership.

Team Europe in Japan visits Kumamoto for exchanges with local stakeholders

On 8 and 9 February, European Union Ambassador to Japan Jean-Eric Paquet, together with 19 EU Member State Ambassadors, visited the city of Kumamoto in southwestern Japan for a series of meetings with local stakeholders on issues including security and economic security.

DG Trade expands online business support for EU service exporters

DG Trade has expanded the scope of its online Trade Assistant for Services and Investment to cover one hundred services sectors across four of the EU’s key trading partners: Canada, Japan, Switzerland, and the UK.

EU and Japan sign protocol to include cross-border data flows

On behalf of the EU, the Belgian Presidency of the Council signed in January the protocol to include provisions on cross-border data flows in the agreement between the EU and Japan for an Economic Partnership.

Team Europe in Japan visits Kumamoto for exchanges with local stakeholders

On 8 and 9 February, European Union Ambassador to Japan Jean-Eric Paquet, together with 19 EU Member State Ambassadors, visited the city of Kumamoto in southwestern Japan for a series of meetings with local stakeholders on issues including security and economic security.

DG Trade expands online business support for EU service exporters

DG Trade has expanded the scope of its online Trade Assistant for Services and Investment to cover one hundred services sectors across four of the EU’s key trading partners: Canada, Japan, Switzerland, and the UK.

From Japan

Japan named Country of the Year at VivaTechnology 2024

JETRO to support a large delegation of startups at VivaTechnology in Paris on 22-25 May.

Information on Local Tax Credit Scheme for Overseas Financial Corporations in Osaka

Incentives to reduce corporate inhabitant tax and corporate enterprise tax for up to 10 years now available to companies located in Osaka City by FY 2025, the year of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai.

Kyoto City established "Kyoto Online Tech Pavilion" to promote local industry

"Kyoto Online Tech Pavilion" is the best place to learn about cutting-edge business in the manufacturing city of Kyoto. Visitors can get information on three points: SMEs and startups with excellent technologies, business environment and support for a wide variety of businesses, and technical tours.

Japan named Country of the Year at VivaTechnology 2024

JETRO to support a large delegation of startups at VivaTechnology in Paris on 22-25 May.

Information on Local Tax Credit Scheme for Overseas Financial Corporations in Osaka

Incentives to reduce corporate inhabitant tax and corporate enterprise tax for up to 10 years now available to companies located in Osaka City by FY 2025, the year of Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai.

Kyoto City established "Kyoto Online Tech Pavilion" to promote local industry

"Kyoto Online Tech Pavilion" is the best place to learn about cutting-edge business in the manufacturing city of Kyoto. Visitors can get information on three points: SMEs and startups with excellent technologies, business environment and support for a wide variety of businesses, and technical tours.

Launch of AI Safety Institute

In response to the growing international interest in AI safety, the AI Safety Institute was launched on 14 February 2024 to examine the evaluation methods for AI safety and other related matters.

Solid State Fermentation for Sustainable Agricultural development: “Hakko” Tradition

Nagaoka University of Technology launched in 2023 "Rice Destinations”—a bio-community centre for the future of the Niigata Region. Based on the synergy between the fermentation tradition and scientific research, this centre fosters a transition towards a sustainable food production system.

GENIAC to be Launched for Enhancing Japan's Capability to Develop Generative AI

Tthe Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) will launch the Generative AI Accelerator Challenge, or GENIAC, a project to provide support in securing computational resources.

Launch of AI Safety Institute

In response to the growing international interest in AI safety, the AI Safety Institute was launched on 14 February 2024 to examine the evaluation methods for AI safety and other related matters.

Solid State Fermentation for Sustainable Agricultural development: “Hakko” Tradition

Nagaoka University of Technology launched in 2023 "Rice Destinations”—a bio-community centre for the future of the Niigata Region. Based on the synergy between the fermentation tradition and scientific research, this centre fosters a transition towards a sustainable food production system.

GENIAC to be Launched for Enhancing Japan's Capability to Develop Generative AI

Tthe Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) will launch the Generative AI Accelerator Challenge, or GENIAC, a project to provide support in securing computational resources.

Preliminary Report on the 2023 Basic Survey of Japanese Business Structure and Activities

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) regularly conducts a survey titled the METI Basic Survey of Japanese Business Structure and Activities with the aims of 1) clarifying how the management strategies of Japanese enterprises and industrial structures actually evolve and 2) gathering basic data to support administrative measures. The following is a summarized preliminary report of the 2023 survey based on actual results from FY2022. The following key points were revealed from a total of 31,411 enterprises that were categorized in target sectors for the survey.

Sales p...

Spotted publication

The monthly magazine “Highlighting Japan” is published by the Japanese Government to help readers better understand Japan today.

Preliminary Report on the 2023 Basic Survey of Japanese Business Structure and Activities

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) regularly conducts a survey titled the METI Basic Survey of Japanese Business Structure and Activities with the aims of 1) clarifying how the management strategies of Japanese enterprises and industrial structures actually evolve and 2) gathering basic data to support administrative measures. The following is a summarized preliminary report of the 2023 survey based on actual results from FY2022. The following key points were revealed from a total of 31,411 enterprises that were categorized in target sectors for the survey.

Sales p...

Spotted publication

The monthly magazine “Highlighting Japan” is published by the Japanese Government to help readers better understand Japan today.

EU-Japan News

Photovoltaic panel technology from Japan to Slovakia

Slovakia wants to become a gateway for the expansion of new photovoltaic panel technology in Europe. Denisa Saková, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic and the Minister of Economy of the SR signed the Memorandum of Understanding in Tokyo, Japan, with Sekisui Chemical, which develops photovoltaic flexible panels.

Finnish-Japanese collaboration – BIOSYS

North Karelia of Finland introduces the BIOSYS Ecosystem, a collaborator between the regions of North Karelia, Nagano (Ina), and Hokkaido. BIOSYS bridges research, development, innovations, and business activities together, drives international growth, and addresses the key challenges in the green transition together with partners.

Japan drawing interest from Polish firms

Over 300 entrepreneurs and representatives of Polish business support institutions participated in the inaugural seminar of the training series titled “An Opportunity to Develop Your Business in Japan - Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai”. The event was organised by the PAIH Expo Team.

Photovoltaic panel technology from Japan to Slovakia

Slovakia wants to become a gateway for the expansion of new photovoltaic panel technology in Europe. Denisa Saková, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic and the Minister of Economy of the SR signed the Memorandum of Understanding in Tokyo, Japan, with Sekisui Chemical, which develops photovoltaic flexible panels.

Finnish-Japanese collaboration – BIOSYS

North Karelia of Finland introduces the BIOSYS Ecosystem, a collaborator between the regions of North Karelia, Nagano (Ina), and Hokkaido. BIOSYS bridges research, development, innovations, and business activities together, drives international growth, and addresses the key challenges in the green transition together with partners.

Japan drawing interest from Polish firms

Over 300 entrepreneurs and representatives of Polish business support institutions participated in the inaugural seminar of the training series titled “An Opportunity to Develop Your Business in Japan - Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai”. The event was organised by the PAIH Expo Team.

Polish Pavilion at COSME Tokyo 2024

The Tokyo Office of the Polish Investment & Trade Agency organized the Polish Pavilion at COSME Tokyo 2024 where six brands (AVA Laboratory, Bless Me Cosmetics, Four Starlings, Hocus Pocus, Kovalite, and La-Le) showcased Polish cosmetics offering to the Japanese audience.

23 European companies join a public procurements trade mission to Japan

Can foreign companies participate in public tenders in Japan? EU-funded project GOOSE, under the leadership of Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT) office in Japan, is organizing a physical trade mission to Japan, together with 3 other project partners

PIMAP4Sustainability - Call for training, services & international mission to Japan

European SMEs working on photonics, advanced materials, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, metalworking, and industrial production can receive funding to follow a training or acquire a service related to the green transition, internationalization, or participate to the international mission to Japan in June 2024.

Polish Pavilion at COSME Tokyo 2024

The Tokyo Office of the Polish Investment & Trade Agency organized the Polish Pavilion at COSME Tokyo 2024 where six brands (AVA Laboratory, Bless Me Cosmetics, Four Starlings, Hocus Pocus, Kovalite, and La-Le) showcased Polish cosmetics offering to the Japanese audience.

23 European companies join a public procurements trade mission to Japan

Can foreign companies participate in public tenders in Japan? EU-funded project GOOSE, under the leadership of Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT) office in Japan, is organizing a physical trade mission to Japan, together with 3 other project partners

PIMAP4Sustainability - Call for training, services & international mission to Japan

European SMEs working on photonics, advanced materials, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, metalworking, and industrial production can receive funding to follow a training or acquire a service related to the green transition, internationalization, or participate to the international mission to Japan in June 2024.

Belgium’s Participation in Expo 2025: Strengthening the Life Sciences Partnership

In January 2024, the Embassy of Belgium in Japan hosted a networking event in Osaka, introducing the Belgian life sciences sector to the Kansai region. This event served as a prelude to Belgium's participation in the upcoming World Expo 2025 in Osaka, where the country will focus on showcasing its strengths in areas like healthcare, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.

Voka Mechelen-Kempen visits Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto during the World Expo in 2025!

There are 6 Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CCI) in Flanders that are employer organizations. Voka – Chamber of Commerce & Industry Mechelen-Kempen is one of them and covers the districts of Mechelen and Turnhout. The Chamber will organize an economic mission to Japan on 10-18 of May 2025.

Exploring Japan's Clean Mobility: Hydrogen & New Batteries Technology Learning Expedition

In January, a one-week learning expedition, organized by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan for the French mobility cluster Pôle Véhicule du Futur, brought 15 French companies to Japan to delve into hydrogen and battery topics.

Belgium’s Participation in Expo 2025: Strengthening the Life Sciences Partnership

In January 2024, the Embassy of Belgium in Japan hosted a networking event in Osaka, introducing the Belgian life sciences sector to the Kansai region. This event served as a prelude to Belgium's participation in the upcoming World Expo 2025 in Osaka, where the country will focus on showcasing its strengths in areas like healthcare, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals.

Voka Mechelen-Kempen visits Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto during the World Expo in 2025!

There are 6 Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CCI) in Flanders that are employer organizations. Voka – Chamber of Commerce & Industry Mechelen-Kempen is one of them and covers the districts of Mechelen and Turnhout. The Chamber will organize an economic mission to Japan on 10-18 of May 2025.

Exploring Japan's Clean Mobility: Hydrogen & New Batteries Technology Learning Expedition

In January, a one-week learning expedition, organized by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan for the French mobility cluster Pôle Véhicule du Futur, brought 15 French companies to Japan to delve into hydrogen and battery topics.

Japan in the Emilia-Romagna Culinary Tradition

The Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan organized a special mission from the Ibaraki Prefecture to Bologna, Italy. An exclusive lunch was set up where the traditional recipes of the Emilia-Romagna Region met the products of the Ibaraki Prefecture.

2024: Hundreds of Italian fashion and food companies in Japan

Two events organized by the Trade Promotion Section of the Italian Embassy saw a massive participation of Italian companies. In February, “Moda Italia” & “Shoes from Italy”, in their 63rd and 73rd editions respectively, presented the latest Italian Fall-Winter fashion collections 2024/2025. In March, at the 49th Foodex Japan, Italy showcased its best food & beverage production.

The network of international relations as bridge to success

The docufilm "On the Wings of the Chamber'' showcases Treviso & Belluno entrepreneurship through prestigious sports shoe brands. Stemming from the collaboration between the Treviso-Belluno|Dolomiti Chamber of Commerce and the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan, among others, it supports the internationalization of local companies fostering business opportunities and cultural exchange.

Japan in the Emilia-Romagna Culinary Tradition

The Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan organized a special mission from the Ibaraki Prefecture to Bologna, Italy. An exclusive lunch was set up where the traditional recipes of the Emilia-Romagna Region met the products of the Ibaraki Prefecture.

2024: Hundreds of Italian fashion and food companies in Japan

Two events organized by the Trade Promotion Section of the Italian Embassy saw a massive participation of Italian companies. In February, “Moda Italia” & “Shoes from Italy”, in their 63rd and 73rd editions respectively, presented the latest Italian Fall-Winter fashion collections 2024/2025. In March, at the 49th Foodex Japan, Italy showcased its best food & beverage production.

The network of international relations as bridge to success

The docufilm "On the Wings of the Chamber'' showcases Treviso & Belluno entrepreneurship through prestigious sports shoe brands. Stemming from the collaboration between the Treviso-Belluno|Dolomiti Chamber of Commerce and the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan, among others, it supports the internationalization of local companies fostering business opportunities and cultural exchange.

Trade cooperation between the Polish and Japanese game meat processing industries

In November 2023, representatives of the Japanese company Ohchi Yamakujira from Misato, Japan, visited the company Las-Kalisz in Tomnice, Poland. Both companies specialize in game meat processing and are trying to strengthen trade cooperation with some promising results from this exchange.

INNOVCARE project launch meeting

The launch meeting of "Care-led innovation: The case of elderly care in France and Japan" (INNOVCARE), a Fondation France-Japon de l’EHESS project selected as part of the Priority research programme on Autonomy is planned for 27 and 28 March.

German Research Fair

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and DWIH Tokyo are organizing the second virtual “German Research Fair”.

Trade cooperation between the Polish and Japanese game meat processing industries

In November 2023, representatives of the Japanese company Ohchi Yamakujira from Misato, Japan, visited the company Las-Kalisz in Tomnice, Poland. Both companies specialize in game meat processing and are trying to strengthen trade cooperation with some promising results from this exchange.

INNOVCARE project launch meeting

The launch meeting of "Care-led innovation: The case of elderly care in France and Japan" (INNOVCARE), a Fondation France-Japon de l’EHESS project selected as part of the Priority research programme on Autonomy is planned for 27 and 28 March.

German Research Fair

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and DWIH Tokyo are organizing the second virtual “German Research Fair”.

World Sauna Forum 2024 takes place in the land of the sauna, Finland

It is estimated that there are 3,2 million saunas in Finland. World Sauna Forum 2024 takes place in this land of the sauna, bringing together sauna and wellbeing professionals from around the world. Enterprise Europe Network organizes on-site matchmaking during the event.

Philips' Collaborative Aid to Noto Earthquake Victims: A Model of Solidarity

In response to Japan's Noto earthquake, Philips collaborates with the Dutch Embassy and the JRCS to donate essential items, exemplifying international cooperation and corporate social responsibility in disaster relief.

Spotted publication – Deepening EU-Japan Cooperation

This In-Depth Analysis traces the progress in EU–Japan cooperation achieved so far, highlighting the most promising areas for future collaboration based on both parties’ shared strategic interests, respective capacities, and political objectives.

World Sauna Forum 2024 takes place in the land of the sauna, Finland

It is estimated that there are 3,2 million saunas in Finland. World Sauna Forum 2024 takes place in this land of the sauna, bringing together sauna and wellbeing professionals from around the world. Enterprise Europe Network organizes on-site matchmaking during the event.

Philips' Collaborative Aid to Noto Earthquake Victims: A Model of Solidarity

In response to Japan's Noto earthquake, Philips collaborates with the Dutch Embassy and the JRCS to donate essential items, exemplifying international cooperation and corporate social responsibility in disaster relief.

Spotted publication – Deepening EU-Japan Cooperation

This In-Depth Analysis traces the progress in EU–Japan cooperation achieved so far, highlighting the most promising areas for future collaboration based on both parties’ shared strategic interests, respective capacities, and political objectives.

Spotted publication – OECD Economic Survey of Japan

The OECD released a report on Japan. Japan has navigated the dual shock of the pandemic and the energy crisis well. However, significant headwinds from weak global growth, geopolitical tensions and high inflation highlight the importance of enhancing the Japanese economy’s resilience to shocks. In the context of inflation, which has risen above target, and pressures from divergent monetary policy from peers, adjustments to monetary policy settings have commenced. Given high public debt, fiscal consolidation to rebuild fiscal buffers, underpinned by a credible medium-term fiscal framework to...

Spotted publication – OECD Economic Survey of Japan

The OECD released a report on Japan. Japan has navigated the dual shock of the pandemic and the energy crisis well. However, significant headwinds from weak global growth, geopolitical tensions and high inflation highlight the importance of enhancing the Japanese economy’s resilience to shocks. In the context of inflation, which has risen above target, and pressures from divergent monetary policy from peers, adjustments to monetary policy settings have commenced. Given high public debt, fiscal consolidation to rebuild fiscal buffers, underpinned by a credible medium-term fiscal framework to...

The Network News

UNLOCKPOTENTIALB2B @BEYOND2024

The Federation of Industries of Greece is co-organizing a matchmaking event on the occasion of the BEYOND 2024 Exhibition.

DMEA Business Meetings 2024

Berlin Partner is organizing within the frame of DMEA Europe’s leading industry event for healthcare IT, and hybrid B2B matching event.

IoT Solutions World Congress Brokerage Event 2024

Accio is organizing a hybrid matching event during IoT Solutions World Congress 2024.

UNLOCKPOTENTIALB2B @BEYOND2024

The Federation of Industries of Greece is co-organizing a matchmaking event on the occasion of the BEYOND 2024 Exhibition.

DMEA Business Meetings 2024

Berlin Partner is organizing within the frame of DMEA Europe’s leading industry event for healthcare IT, and hybrid B2B matching event.

IoT Solutions World Congress Brokerage Event 2024

Accio is organizing a hybrid matching event during IoT Solutions World Congress 2024.

The Network offers & requests

REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTOR: Healthcare

Japanese start-up offering fem-tech products reducing day-to-day disadvantages is looking for a distributor in the EU.

BOJP20231128004

REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTOR: Textile

Japanese company specialized in ecofriendly wool socks, carpets and fabrics is looking for a commercial partner.

BOJP20240109003

REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTOR OR AGENT: Healthcare

Japanese company with expertise in sensor technology for usage in elderly care is looking for agents and distribution partners in the EU.

BOJP20230104001

REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTOR: Environment

Japanese company is looking for a distribution partner in the EU for their sludge-dewatering equipment.

BOJP20230127002

REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTOR: Optical Lens

A Japanese industrial optical lens and mould manufacturer seeks a distributor in the EU.

BOJP20230127001

SERVICES OFFERED: Pharma

A Japanese company offers services for the regulatory approval process in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.

BOJP20230206002

REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTOR: Healthcare

Japanese start-up offering fem-tech products reducing day-to-day disadvantages is looking for a distributor in the EU.

BOJP20231128004

REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTOR: Textile

Japanese company specialized in ecofriendly wool socks, carpets and fabrics is looking for a commercial partner.

BOJP20240109003

REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTOR OR AGENT: Healthcare

Japanese company with expertise in sensor technology for usage in elderly care is looking for agents and distribution partners in the EU.

BOJP20230104001

REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTOR: Environment

Japanese company is looking for a distribution partner in the EU for their sludge-dewatering equipment.

BOJP20230127002

REQUEST FOR DISTRIBUTOR: Optical Lens

A Japanese industrial optical lens and mould manufacturer seeks a distributor in the EU.

BOJP20230127001

SERVICES OFFERED: Pharma

A Japanese company offers services for the regulatory approval process in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.

BOJP20230206002

Calendar

Date/location Details Contacts
15
Feb
2024
25
Mar
2024
ONLINE MATCHMAKING EVENT
EU-Japan Green Transition
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Url
26
Mar
2024
Online
WEBINAR
About Japan webinar series 229: Japan's Fish, Fisheries and Seafood, a market overview
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Url
09
Apr
2024
Online
WEBINAR
About Japan webinar series 230: Opportunities rising from new product developments through R&D projects between European SMEs and Japanese companies
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Url
16
Apr
2024
Online
WEBINAR
About Japan webinar 231: 6G in Japan
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Url
04
Jun
2024
Online
WEBINAR
About Japan webinar 232: Foodtech Sector in Japan
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Url
11
Jun
2024
Online
WEBINAR
About Japan webinar series 233: Building a Professional Network in Japan
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Url
19
May
2025
13
Jun
2025
Japan
Tokyo
TRAINING MISSION
Get Ready for Japan - first session
Application deadline: mid-March
19-23 May 2025, Online
9-13 June 2025, Tokyo, Japan
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Url
18
Jun
2024
Online
WEBINAR
About Japan webinar series 234: Japan's Green Transformation (GX) investment policies and implications for EU companies
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Url
08
Oct
2024
11
Oct
2024
Japan
Tokyo
BUSINESS MISSION
Biotech Mission
Application deadline: TBC
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Url
21
Oct
2024
15
Nov
2024
Japan
Tokyo
TRAINING MISSION
Get Ready for Japan - new format (Online&Offline)
Application deadline: TBC
21-25 Oct 2024 Online
11-15 Nov 2024 Tokyo, Japan
EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation
Url

is a joint venture co-financed by the European Commission and the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). Its aim is to foster the development of industrial cooperation between companies from both regions through training programmes for businesspeople, for EU and Japanese students and researchers, and through information services and an industrial dialogue. This quarterly newsletter is produced by the EU-based office of the EU-Japan Centre, and is primarily intended to provide EU/Japan-related news.

Any EU-Japan-related news?

Feel free to contact us if you would like your EU-Japan-related news/event to be announced in our forthcoming newsletter : newsletter@eu-japan.eu

Head office in Japan

  • Shirokane-Takanawa Station bldg 4F
    1-27-6 Shirokane, Minato-ku
    Tokyo 108-0072, Japan
  • T +81 3 6408 0281
  • F +81 3 6408 0283

Office in the EU

  • Rue Marie de Bourgogne 52
    B-1000 Brussels, Belgium
  • T +32 2 282 00 40
  • F +32 2 282 00 45
  • office@eu-japan.eu

https://www.eu-japan.eu/

The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation is co-funded by the European Union and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union, the METI or the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA). Neither the European Union nor METI, nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.