EBC ニュースレター　2026年6月3日

On 26 May, the EBC attended the 15th Annual General Meeting Reception of the Society of Japanese Aerospace Companies (SJAC), an event that brought together senior representatives from industry and government.

A recurring theme throughout the evening was the growing importance of collaboration between Japan and Europe in aerospace and defence. SJAC Chairman Mr. Nakamura welcomed the launch of the EU-Japan Defence Industrial Dialogue, describing it as an important milestone in strengthening industrial ties between both partners.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, and the Cabinet Office reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to enhancing its defence capabilities and technological competitiveness. The reception concluded with remarks from Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, underlining the strategic significance of the sector.

The EBC was honoured to participate and looks forward to further engagement with SJAC and its members.

On 28 May, the EBC Defence Committee welcomed Dr. Valérie Niquet, Senior Research Fellow and Head of the Asia Department at the Foundation for Strategic Research (FRS), for an in-depth discussion on Japan’s evolving defence policy and industrial strategy.

Dr. Niquet outlined recent regulatory and policy developments designed to facilitate international cooperation and support defence exports. Particular attention was given to potential avenues for EU-Japan collaboration, including joint development projects, co-production arrangements and partnerships in advanced technologies.

Participants explored both the opportunities created by Japan’s changing security environment and the practical challenges involved in aligning industrial, political and regulatory frameworks. The discussion also highlighted a notable shift in public and political perceptions of the defence industry, reflecting broader geopolitical developments in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

For European companies active in the sector, the session provided valuable insights into one of Japan’s fastest-evolving policy areas.

Also on 28 May, the EBC presented its activities and advocacy priorities during the Annual General Meeting of the Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce (IJCC).

The event provided an excellent opportunity to exchange views on the regulatory and commercial environment facing European companies operating in Japan and to discuss shared priorities for the future.

As an important stakeholder represented on the EBC Board, the IJCC continues to play a key role in fostering cooperation between Irish and European businesses. The EBC greatly appreciates the Chamber’s ongoing support and looks forward to strengthening this partnership further.

On 29 May, the EBC Logistics & Freight Committee welcomed representatives from Narita Airport Authority (NAA) for a briefing on the airport’s expansion programme.

Members received updates on two flagship projects: the construction of a new runway and the development of Cargo Building 8. Once completed, these investments are expected to increase operational capacity, improve cargo processing efficiency and reinforce Narita’s role as a leading logistics gateway in Asia.

The discussion also addressed the broader implications for freight forwarders, logistics providers and international supply chains. Participants had the opportunity to exchange views directly with NAA representatives on the future of air cargo infrastructure in Japan.

The EBC extends its sincere thanks to the NAA team for their informative presentation and constructive engagement.

Companies interested in joining the EBC Logistics & Freight Committee are invited to contact the Secretariat at [email protected].

On 1 June, the annual gathering of the European Business Organisations Worldwide Network (EBOWN) opened in Brussels. Throughout the week, approximately 50 European Business Organisations from around the world are meeting with representatives of the European Commission and other institutions to discuss a central question: How can European Business Organisations contribute to strengthening Europe’s competitiveness?

The opening session featured Sophie Mueller, Head of Unit for International Value Chains at DG GROW, who outlined the European Union’s response to a rapidly changing geopolitical and economic environment.

Key developments highlighted included:

• New international agreements concluded during 2025;
• Ongoing trade negotiations with additional partner countries;
• Enlargement discussions involving Ukraine, Moldova, North Macedonia and the Western Balkans;
• Expanded bilateral cooperation initiatives;
• Increased emphasis on supply chain resilience, critical raw materials and economic security.

Ms. Mueller also highlighted the EU’s broader competitiveness agenda, including the proposed Industrial Accelerator Act and initiatives aimed at reinforcing Europe’s industrial base.

As the voice of European businesses operating abroad, EBOs play an important role in helping European institutions better understand local market conditions, identify emerging opportunities and anticipate challenges faced by European companies worldwide.

The EBC is pleased to contribute the perspective from Japan to these important discussions.