EBC Newsletter – February 7, 2024

February 07, 2024 EBC Newsletter – February 7, 2024

News, Newsletter

 

From the EBC

Dear Friends of EBC,

On 6 February, the EBC Sustainability Committee met with Director Astrid Schomaker, from DG Environment at the European Commission. The meeting focused on the circular economy, with additional discussions on sustainable investments and the role of consumers.
The EBC shared insights on Japan’s current situation during the session and highlighted local initiatives undertaken by its members.
Director Schomaker emphasised the crucial role of industry, not only as a source of expertise but also as a catalyst for ensuring resources are directed towards more sustainable projects. Industry involvement is vital in influencing Japanese partners and fostering a commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
If you are interested in this committee and its activities, read about its latest recommendations in our 2024 White Paper, and contact the EBC.

From left to right: Nevena Mateeva–EU Delegation to Japan, Maria Chiara Femiano–DG Environment, Astrid Schomaker–DG Environment, Jun Suzuki–L’Oréal, Tomoko Kusuda–L’Oréal, Naoko Kabaya–LVMH
Don’t forget about our upcoming event to launch the 2024 EBC White Paper on 29 February at 16:00. The White Paper, the cornerstone product of the EBC, is a meticulous compilation of the challenges faced by its members. It is regularly updated and available on the EBC website, ensuring that stakeholders are kept abreast of the latest developments.
The event promises valuable insights from five distinguished industry representatives. This is a unique opportunity to hear first-hand from experts not only about the challenges facing European industry in Japan, but also about the recommendations proposed to address these issues. The White Paper serves as a powerful advocacy tool to influence improvements in the Japanese regulatory framework.
To register, please email: [email protected]

I would also like to inform you about an online event organised on 26 February (15:00-16:00, Zoom, in English and Japanese) by Osaka Business and Investment Center (O-BIC: consisting of Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Osaka Prefecture Government and Osaka City Government) to disseminate Osaka’s cutting-edge technology, the latest business environment and city attractiveness as well as the appeal of the Osaka Expo 2025.
Registration

The EBC team is looking forward to hearing from you soon!

Valerie Moschetti
EBC Chief Operating Officer

What’s in the Media

  • The government is considering amending the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition Law to revoke the permanent residency status of foreign nationals who fail to pay taxes and social security premiums. As more foreign nationals are accepted to live in Japan, the government aims to “optimize” the permanent residency status by strengthening its response to cases of such residents not fulfilling their legal obligations. (The Asahi Shimbun)
  • The Japan Tourism Agency will strengthen its measures, such as introducing a new subsidy program, in fiscal 2024 in a bid to help the country host more international conferences and business events. The agency will shoulder part of costs of installing communications networks at event venues and developing human resources with know-how on attracting events known as MICE, an acronym for meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions, informed sources said. (The Japan News)
  • The government is set to support accelerating technology that manufactures space-grade semiconductors, jointly developed by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and a startup. The two aim to put the devices into practical use. With these space semiconductors, the government plans to open new markets with a wide range of space equipment. This includes satellites and space probes equipped with such semiconductors so they can still perform well in space, which endures intense radiation. (The Japan News)
  • The government plans to utilize the metaverse in a program to make it easier for exceptional foreign students to stay in Japan and enter the work force after graduating. The Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology Ministry will provide support by holding job fairs and employment seminars in a virtual environment that facilitates easy connection with potential employers. (The Japan News)

Upcoming EBC Committee Meetings

Date Committee Time / Location
Feb 7 (Wed) Energy Hybrid
1330~
Feb 8 (Thu) Legal Services EBC
1200~
Feb 20 (Tue) Sustainability & Social Responsibility Hybrid
0900~
Feb 20 (Tue) Medical Equipment & Diagnostics Off-site
1430~
Feb 22 (Thu) Human Resources Hybrid
0930~
Feb 27 (Tue) Logistics & Freight Hybrid
0930~
Mar 1 (Fri) Liquor Hybrid
0830~
Mar 1 (Fri) Railways Hybrid
1600~
Mar 11 (Mon) Materials Hybrid
1730~
Mar 19 (Tue) Food & Agriculture Hybrid
1700~
Mar 21 (Thu) Medical Equipment & Diagnostics Off-site
1430~
Mar 28 (Thu) Insurance Hybrid
0730~
Mar 28 (Thu) Human Resources Hybrid
0930~
Mar 28 (Thu) Telecommunications Equipment On-line
1000~

If you are interested in joining a committee meeting, please contact the EBC to confirm the time and meeting place.

Stakeholders of the EBC:

European Business Council JAPAN
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