| Dear Friends of the EBC,
The European Business Council serves as a platform for fostering dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy between Europe and Japan. Acting as a bridge for European industry within Japan’s complex regulatory landscape, the EBC engages with key ministries, promotes forward-looking discussions, and connects European and Japanese stakeholders to strengthen trade and industrial competitiveness. |
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| The EBC meets with MOFA and METI
On 8 October, the EBC management (Board President Laurent Depus, Chief Operating Officer Valerie Moschetti, Chief Policy Director Bjorn Kongstad) and EBC Defence Committee Chair Nikolaus Boltze met with representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
MOFA was represented by Director Takeshi Koyama and Director Chihiro Mochizuki, and METI by Director Toshiyuki Shirai.
The meeting was an excellent opportunity to exchange views on how to further strengthen Europe Japan cooperation, including in areas of shared strategic interest such as defence and industrial competitiveness.
The EBC looks forward to continuing this constructive dialogue with both ministries in support of closer partnership between Europe and Japan. |
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| Quo Vadis Automotive – Competing for the Future of Mobility
On 9 October, the EBC Automotive Components Committee organized an executive seminar in collaboration with McKinsey & Company at McKinsey’s IoT Center in Roppongi.
The session brought together industry leaders to discuss how Japanese and global automotive powerhouses are competing in the race for new technologies, from electrification to smartification, and how they are adapting to increasingly value‑conscious customers in an uncertain global environment.
Discussions highlighted how advantage in the automotive sector is shifting toward those who can master the enabling technology stack – from e‑powertrains and semiconductors to power electronics and software‑defined mobility – while strengthening resilience to cope with supply chain disruptions and market volatility. Early movers are already turning technological strength into gains in productivity, speed, and customer experience, supported by strategic partnerships, smart capital allocation, and capability building across the value chain.
The EBC extends its sincere thanks to McKinsey & Company for hosting the event and sharing their valuable insights! |
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| Empowering Women to Lead & Launch – Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
On 9 October, the EBC was honoured to take part in “Empowering Women to Lead & Launch” alongside two of our Committee Chairs, Tobias Schiebe and Stéfan Le Dû, both actively driving initiatives on gender diversity and women’s empowerment within their committees.
Hosted at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, this inspiring programme gathered women entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and innovators to share strategies, exchange experiences, and discuss solutions to break barriers in leadership, entrepreneurship and innovation.
From tackling workforce challenges to unleashing women’s talents, the discussions highlighted how empowering women drives sustainable growth, fosters inclusive trade, and sparks new collaborations across borders.
We extend our thanks to Ambassador Gilles Beschoor Plug and Sosha Bronfman, the Japan Women’s Innovation Network and Womensbizz for convening this dynamic gathering, and to all the trailblazing women who shared their journeys and insights! |
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| Celebrate the Best of German Wines with the German Chamber of Commerce in Osaka
Join the German Wine Festival 2025 in Osaka (22 October, Garden Oriental Osaka,18:30-21:00) and experience an unforgettable evening of premium German wines, all available in Japan, complemented by a delicious buffet and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for networking and connection.
Reserve your spot by Monday 20 October! |
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| 2025 Kyushu Industrial Tour – Promoting Global Collaboration in Japan’s Innovation Hub
The Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI Kyushu) has announced the details of this year’s Industrial Tour in Kyushu, an initiative designed to strengthen cooperation between foreign companies and local industries while showcasing the region’s growing innovation ecosystem.
This year’s program, scheduled for Thursday, 27 November (8:00 – 18:15), will take participants to Kitakyushu City (Fukuoka Prefecture), a well-known center of advanced manufacturing and technology. The tour will highlight local Digital Transformation and robotics companies that are tackling challenges in production and services through AI integration. Participants will also visit the Kyushu Institute of Technology, where on-site demonstrations will provide valuable insights into the region’s cutting-edge developments. This event offers a meaningful opportunity for dialogue and partnership between international organizations, diplomatic missions, and local innovators.
For further details and registration, please visit the official website. |
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| Through its committees and strong ties with industry and government, the EBC remains deeply committed to advancing a shared vision of mutual growth between Europe and Japan. Whether addressing policy challenges, accelerating technological cooperation, or promoting inclusive leadership, the EBC plays an essential role in deepening bilateral engagement and ensuring that European companies continue contributing meaningfully to Japan’s dynamic economic landscape.
Valerie Moschetti
Chief Operating Officer
EBC |
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- The Hokkaido Spaceport in the town of Taiki, located on Japan’s northern main island, has rocketed to global prominence after it hosted the first launch of a foreign vessel earlier this summer. The port has now received inquiries about possible launches from 13 or 14 companies from around the world. (Nikkei Asia)
- The Japanese government will specify the need to promote domestic development of artificial intelligence in an upcoming strategy, official sources said Sunday, as it seeks to avoid overdependence on foreign AI for national security. An overview of the country’s basic AI plan being compiled is expected to call for better treatment to attract AI professionals, along with the development of cutting-edge chips and a next-generation supercomputer, according to the sources. (The Mainichi)
- Having wrapped up recruitment activities and orientation for upcoming university graduates who will join the workforce next spring, many Japanese companies are now focusing on ensuring their young hires do not quit within a few years, a growing trend that has become a corporate headache. Some firms are utilizing apps to track the emotional state of new employees, while others are allowing hires to apply for specific locations or departments instead of the long-standing practice of assignments being determined by companies. (Japan Today)
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Upcoming EBC Committee Meetings |
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| Date |
Committee |
Time / Location |
| October 16 (Thursday) |
Government Relations |
Hybrid
1730~ |
| October 17 (Friday) |
Insurance |
12:00~
EBC |
| October 23 (Thursday) |
Medical Equipment & Diagnostics |
Off-site
1430~ |
| October 24 (Friday) |
Insurance |
Hybrid
0800~ |
| October 30 (Thursday) |
Human Resources |
Hybrid
0930~ |
| November 12 (Wednesday) |
Medical Equipment & Diagnostics |
Off-site
1430~ |
| November 14 (Friday) |
Railways |
Hybrid
1600~ |
| November 17 (Monday) |
Government Relations |
Hybrid
1230~ |
| November 27 (Thursday) |
Human Resources |
Hybrid
0930~ |
If you are interested in joining a committee meeting, please contact the EBC to confirm the time and meeting place. |
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