EBC Newsletter – February 5, 2025

On 29 January, we had an engaging discussion with Mr. Panagiotis Dermentzoglou, First Counselor, Economic & Commercial Affairs at the Embassy of Greece in Japan. Our conversation focused on the EBC’s advocacy efforts in supporting European companies and the regulatory challenges faced by Greek products in the Japanese market. Recognizing the importance of a fair and open trade environment, the EBC will continue to advocate for solutions to address these issues and support Greek businesses.

On 31 January, the EBC had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Noa Berendsen, the new Chair of the Netherlands Chamber of Commerce in Japan (NCCJ). It was a great opportunity to exchange insights on our respective missions and explore avenues for collaboration. Ms. Berendsen introduced the NCCJ, its members, and its activities in Japan, highlighting the Chamber’s potential for growth. The EBC presented its 23 sectoral and cross-cutting committees, outlining key regulatory challenges in Japan and our ongoing advocacy efforts to support European—and Dutch—businesses. We look forward to welcoming more Dutch companies into the EBC network and strengthening our cooperation with the NCCJ. Together, we can create a more transparent and business-friendly environment in Japan!

On 4 February, the European Business Council in Japan had a valuable discussion with Per Christer Lund, Counsellor for Energy and Technology at the Norwegian Embassy. As Norway is a global leader in renewable energy, green transition, and sustainable technology, this exchange was particularly insightful. We explored opportunities for collaboration in clean energy solutions and the renewables market in Japan. A big thank you to Per Christer Lund for sharing his expertise! We look forward to strengthening energy ties and driving sustainable innovation together.

On Monday, 17 February, the EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation is organizing a hybrid seminar on “Accelerating the Clean Transition in the EU and Japan” (17:30-18:30 JST, with English-Japanese Simultaneous Interpretation / Free Event).
With the second term of Ursula von der Leyen’s presidency of the European Commission now underway, the EU’s Fit-for-55 policy package and the European Green Deal continue to drive efforts toward decarbonization. The EU Compass, published on 29 January and inspired by the Draghi report, sets the direction for her second term, emphasizing innovation, decarbonization, and competitiveness while strengthening economic security efforts. As Japan advances its GX (Green Transformation) strategy within the framework of the Japan-EU Green Alliance, this event will explore how the EU aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Discussions will feature:

• Top EU climate policy officials
• The head of Japan’s METI GX strategy
• A representative from Japanese businesses

On-site participants are welcome to join the networking reception following the seminar
Registration Details:
For onsite participation (capacity 100 people): [Click here]
For online participation via ZOOM: [Click here]

Valerie Moschetti
EBC Chief Operating Officer

• Japan seeks to raise its domestic procurement goal for offshore wind farms to roughly 70% in 2040 from the current 60%, Nikkei has learned, in a bid to build up the local supply chain with foreign investment. The new target will be finalized by summer. An expert panel begins meetings later this month to discuss the procurement goal and necessary support measures. (Nikkei Asia)
• The welfare ministry plans to push back the phased abolishment of the company size threshold for which part-time workers are required to enroll in the employee pension program, The Yomiuri Shimbun has learned. Eliminating the threshold, which is the move is part of reforms designed to expand the number of workers enrolled in the pension program, was initially set for October 2029, but under the plan this will be delayed until October 2035. This will be included in pension reform-related bills set to be submitted during the current Diet session. (The Japan News)
• The Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry plans to raise subsidies for purchasers of electric vehicles and other eco-friendly cars by up to ¥50,000 from April. The subsidies will be applicable to automakers that use so-called green steel in their cars. Green steel refers to steel produced while minimizing carbon dioxide emissions. (The Japan News)

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