EBC ニュースレター　2025年3月19日

On 18 March, the EBC had the great honour of welcoming Dr. Akira Igata, a lecturer at the University of Tokyo and one of Japan’s foremost authorities on economic security, for a presentation.

Dr. Igata provided a comprehensive overview of economic security, covering its origins in Japan, key players, various aspects of its development, and potential future directions. He emphasised the crucial role of industry involvement—not only in responding to changes but also in shaping policies proactively. While investment protection has long been a consideration, the United States is now seeking to limit outbound investment through the so-called DITCH Act. Although the EU and UK have not yet adopted similar measures, discussions on the matter are ongoing. A key question remains: How will U.S. policies impact Europe and Japan?

Dr. Igata underscored the need for a multilateral framework and stronger international cooperation. He also highlighted the CPTPP as a potential tool for economic security, suggesting that the EU might consider joining, though this could come with trade-offs.

In closing, Dr. Igata called for greater collaboration between academia, business, and government to enhance understanding of economic security issues. Most importantly, he reiterated that private sector participation in international discussions is essential for assessing the implications of economic security policies on industries and businesses.

On 18 March, the EBC Automotive Components and Aftermarket Committee, in collaboration with the German Chamber, hosted an insightful session on “Accelerate Sustainability: Harnessing Reusable Materials and Digital Innovation to Shift Gears Toward a Carbon-Neutral Future.”

– Lutz Rothhardt (BMW) shared how BMW embeds sustainability into its business model through the 4Rs: Recycle, Reuse, Reduce, and Rethink. As the shift to electrification accelerates, car manufacturers are increasingly reliant on suppliers to ensure vehicles are sustainable across their entire lifecycle. A key enabler? A robust data exchange ecosystem.

– Marcus Kraemer (SAP) introduced Catena-X, a collaborative data exchange platform designed to support scalability and industrialization of sustainability efforts. He highlighted that data sharing is crucial—but ownership remains with the original producers, ensuring seamless interoperability across the industry.

– Hiroshi Manu (Data Society Alliance) provided insights from Japan, stressing that without supportive legislation, progress in this field will be limited. He also expressed hope for greater collaboration between Europe and Japan in advancing sustainable automotive solutions.

A huge thank you to Christian Seidel (Committee Chair), the German Chamber, BMW, and to SAP who, in addition to Marcus Kraemer’s presentation, made this event possible by hosting the meeting!

For more information about the EBC Automotive Components Committee, contact Bjorn Kongstad at [email protected].

On 18 March, Japan’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. IWAYA Takeshi, and Nagano Prefecture Governor, Mr. ABE Shuichi, hosted a reception at Iikura House in Tokyo to spotlight the region’s strengths and attract foreign direct investment (FDI) to the region.

The event brought together leaders from business and diplomacy, offering a dynamic platform to showcase Nagano’s economic potential, strategic advantages, and stunning natural landscape. Presentations focused on investment opportunities, infrastructure, and innovation, reinforcing Nagano as a prime destination for global investors.

The evening successfully fostered meaningful connections between local leaders and international stakeholders, further demonstrating Japan’s commitment to regional development and global economic collaboration. With its blend of business-friendly policies, cutting-edge industries, and world-class quality of life, Nagano is positioning itself as a hub for investment and innovation.

The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan is looking for highly motivated and passionate candidates to fill four exciting positions within a dynamic organization. These opportunities provide an enriching work environment, fostering professional growth.

Job Offers

On 26 March, Gunma Prefecture, in collaboration with EIT, will host a pre-event introducing the upcoming 2025 EIT Global Outreach Program.

–Time: 17:00–18:00 (Online, Free Participation)
–Audience: Companies related to Gunma Prefecture
–Features:
Introduction to EIT
Program overview
Case studies

This initiative aims to foster open innovation and introduce cutting-edge European technologies to Japanese businesses. By connecting Gunma Prefecture companies with European startups, the program seeks to solve business challenges and drive new venture creation.

Register now!

Valerie Moschetti
EBC Chief Operating Officer

• A consortium formed by representatives of industry, government and academia has set a target of using over 15% recycled plastic in the production of cars in Japan in 2031, and over 20% from 2036, it has been learned. The goal is to encourage the domestic recycling of plastics from the perspective of economic and resource security in response to new regulations to be introduced by the European Union in 2031. (The Japan News)
• The Japanese government will start encouraging the growth of the domestic cybersecurity industry to reduce dependence on services provided by foreign companies. In the plan to be launched in the fiscal year from April, the government aims to more than triple annual domestic cybersecurity sales to over 3 trillion yen ($20.2 billion) within 10 years from the current 900 billion yen, the industry ministry said in early March. (Kyodo News+)
• The Japanese government is set to introduce new standards on evaluating the durability of wooden buildings with the aim of significantly extending their legal longevity for easier financing and promoting decarbonization through the increased use of timber. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism plans to evaluate the waterproofing of wooden buildings via third party agencies which, if the new criteria are met, could double the service life of such buildings to 50 years or more. (Kyodo News+)
• Japan will expand the use of satellites to measure greenhouse gas emissions in Asia with an eye on promoting the use of Japanese energy-saving technologies in the future. Japan’s Ibuki and Ibuki 2 satellites now track greenhouse gas levels in Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan — areas that include significant reserves of oil, gas and coal. There are plans to expand monitoring to Turkmenistan by fiscal 2026. (Nikkei Asia)

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