EBC Newsletter – June 10, 2026

Between 1 and 5 June, the EBC participated in the 2026 Annual Conference of the European Business Organizations Worldwide Network (EBOWN) in Brussels.

Throughout the week, EBC exchanged views with officials from the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs (DG GROW), Directorate-General for Trade and Economic Security (DG TRADE), Directorate-General for International Partnerships (DG INTPA), and Directorate-General for Energy (DG ENERGY), as well as members of the European Parliament, BusinessEurope and Eurochambres.

The conference provided a valuable platform to discuss key issues affecting European businesses globally, including competitiveness, economic security, industrial strategy, trade policy, energy resilience and international partnerships.

The EBC also actively contributed to the East Asia & Pacific regional discussions, ensuring that the perspectives of European companies operating in Japan were reflected in conversations shaping future EU policy priorities.

As Europe seeks to strengthen its competitiveness in an increasingly complex global environment, maintaining strong links between Brussels and European business communities abroad remains essential.

On 3 June, the EBC attended the Minazuki Gathering and Business Seminar hosted by the Japan-Hungary Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JHCCI) at the Embassy of Hungary in Tokyo.

The event featured remarks by JHCCI Chairman Takeo Kawamura and H.E. Anna Aulner-Bálint, Ambassador of Hungary to Japan, who highlighted the growing economic relationship between the two countries and the opportunities emerging from increased bilateral cooperation.

Participants also heard presentations on venture capital trends in the semiconductor sector and Hungary’s research and development ecosystem, illustrating the country’s growing attractiveness as a hub for innovation and investment. The seminar concluded with a networking reception that provided an excellent opportunity to exchange views and strengthen business connections.

The EBC extends its sincere thanks to the JHCCI and the Embassy of Hungary for hosting such a successful event.

How can automotive companies build high-performing teams across cultures, regions and disciplines? This question was at the heart of a seminar and networking event organised on 8 June by the EBC Automotive Components and Aftermarket Committee in partnership with the German Chamber of Commerce in Japan (AHK Japan).

The keynote address was delivered by Benjamin Nawka, Head of Design at MFTBC and VP Design India at Daimler Truck Asia, who shared insights from his experience leading design organisations across Germany, Japan, China and India. His presentation explored both the opportunities and challenges of managing international Interior and HMI teams and highlighted the importance of integrating diverse perspectives and expertise.

Benjamin Nawka was joined by Doru Tașcă, President of ZF Japan, for a panel discussion on leadership and organisational development in a rapidly evolving global automotive sector. Drawing on their respective experiences, the speakers examined how companies can align teams across borders, foster innovation and maintain a shared sense of purpose.

The event generated lively discussions among participants and once again demonstrated the value of bringing together industry leaders to exchange best practices and strengthen collaboration within Japan’s automotive ecosystem.

The EBC extends its sincere thanks to Benjamin Nawka and Doru Tașcă for sharing their expertise, to Christian Seidel, Chair of the Automotive Components and Aftermarket Committee, for his leadership, and to AHK Japan for its excellent partnership.

On 9 June, EBC President Nikolaus Boltze attended the celebration of the 35th Statehood Day of the Republic of Slovenia, hosted by H.E. Ambassador Mr Jurij Rifelj in Tokyo.EBC Attends Slovenia’s National Day Reception

The occasion commemorates the historic events of June 1991, when the Slovenian Parliament adopted the key legislative acts and declarations that formally launched Slovenia’s path to independence. Thirty-five years later, Slovenia stands as a successful member of the European Union, NATO and the Eurozone.

The event also provided an opportunity to reflect on the strong and steadily growing relationship between Slovenia and Japan. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, the two countries have developed a partnership rooted in shared democratic values, economic cooperation, scientific exchange and technological innovation. Japanese investment in Slovenia has also continued to expand, further strengthening bilateral ties.

The EBC extends its sincere thanks to H.E. Ambassador Mr Jurij Rifelj and his team for their kind invitation and warm hospitality.