General environment

Committee:
Space
status:
No progress
Published:
The current approval system for satellite projects and the future handling of public-private partnership (PPP) projects in Japan carry the risk of increasing protectionism. The European Business Council (EBC) strongly advocates for enhanced trade and cooperation—not retrenchment. Greater openness to European industry would benefit Japan, particularly given that many European technologies are available without the restrictions of “black-box” technology policies. Both regions operate under constrained development budgets and limited government demand. To sustain a viable space industry and preserve independent access to space, Japan and Europe must urgently consider forming a strategic partnership. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the suspension of Soyuz launcher operations by Arianespace, along with delays to the Ariane 6 program, have severely impacted Europe’s launch capabilities. In this context, the concept of a Japan-Europe mutual backup arrangement for institutional satellite launches is gaining increasing relevance and strategic value.

Recommendations

  • Satellite projects with both government and commercial aspects should not be declared “governmental” for the purpose of excluding the participation of foreign industry.
  • The EBC urges continued Japanese cooperation with European space agencies. Space agencies on both sides can compare their projects at an early stage and take advantage of cooperation opportunities.
  • The European Space Agency (ESA) should consider establishing a permanent representation in Japan.
  • Japan should also encourage more cooperation between the Japanese and European space industries on satellite platforms and ground systems.
  • The EBC believes that boosting Japan-Europe cooperation is indispensable in order to respond to the rapidly changing space environment and common threats, and requests that action be taken to make this possible.
  • The discussion of Japan-Europe mutual backup cooperation regarding institutional satellites should resume.
  • An agreement regarding the treatment of sensitive information should be signed between Japan and Europe (ESA, EC, ...) to facilitate the mutual backup of institutional satellites.