EBC Newsletter – July 15, 2026

The EBC has completed a survey examining the business impact of Japan’s evolving policies affecting foreign nationals. The survey gathered 213 responses from companies across a broad range of sectors operating in Japan.

The results show that awareness of recent policy developments is high among European businesses, with more than 90% of respondents indicating that they are fully or partially aware of the measures under discussion.

Importantly, the survey found that immediate operational impacts remain limited for most companies. However, respondents identified several areas warranting continued attention, including administrative predictability, compliance requirements, talent mobility and Japan’s long-term attractiveness for international talent and investment.

The findings also highlight strong support for continued EBC engagement with the relevant Japanese authorities. Companies expressed a preference for constructive, evidence-based dialogue focused on practical implementation and business impacts.

The survey provides an important baseline for monitoring future developments and will help inform the EBC’s ongoing advocacy efforts to support a transparent, predictable and competitive business environment in Japan.
Survey result and Executive Summary

On 7 July, the EBC attended the launch event marking Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Hosted by Ireland House Tokyo, the event featured remarks by H.E. Damien Cole, Ambassador of Ireland to Japan, and H.E. Jean-Eric Paquet, Ambassador of the European Union to Japan, who highlighted the importance of competitiveness, security, innovation, and trusted international partnerships in an increasingly complex global environment.

The event also underscored the growing strategic importance of EU-Japan cooperation. Building on the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), the Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA), and the recently concluded Security and Defence Partnership, Europe and Japan are strengthening collaboration on economic security, resilient supply chains, technological innovation, and industrial competitiveness.

The EBC congratulates Ireland on the start of its Presidency and looks forward to continuing to support dialogue and cooperation between European businesses and Japanese stakeholders throughout the Presidency period.

On 8 July, the EBC attended the reception hosted by the Delegation of the European Union to Japan to mark the conclusion of Ambassador Jean-Eric Paquet’s mandate.

The event brought together European Ambassadors, senior Japanese government officials, and business leaders, reflecting the strength of the EU-Japan partnership. Among the distinguished guests were Minoru Kiuchi, Minister in charge of Economic and Fiscal Policy, Regulatory Reform and Japan’s Growth Strategy, and Kimi Onoda, Minister of State for Economic Security, Science and Technology Policy, Space Policy, and Intellectual Property Strategy.

During his tenure, Ambassador Paquet maintained a strong commitment to strengthening EU-Japan relations and fostering close dialogue with the European business community in Japan. The EBC sincerely thanks him for his engagement, accessibility, and support over the years.

A memorable moment of the evening came when Minister Kiuchi concluded his remarks with the words “Ich bin ein Europäer,” highlighting the shared values and enduring friendship that underpin the strategic partnership between Japan and the European Union.

The EBC wishes Ambassador Paquet every success in his future responsibilities and looks forward to continuing its close cooperation with the Delegation of the European Union to Japan!

On 8 July, the EBC had the pleasure of meeting with H.E. Dr Ovidiu Raetchi, Ambassador of Romania to Japan and Anca Puie, Political Counsellor / Second Secretary.

The meeting provided an excellent opportunity to introduce the EBC and its mission. We also exchanged views on the EBC’s current priorities, highlighting the work carried out by our sector committees in areas such as defence & security, digital, raw materials, and many other strategic fields.

Looking ahead, the EBC expressed its willingness to share its expertise and market knowledge with future Romanian public and business delegations visiting Japan, helping to facilitate dialogue with the European business community and strengthen Europe-Japan cooperation.

Our sincere thanks to the Embassy of Romania for its warm hospitality and the constructive exchange. We look forward to continuing our collaboration!

On 13 July, we welcomed a group of international students from Sophia University for an introductory presentation on the EBC’s role and activities.

The visit formed part of the course “The Japanese Economy in a Comparative Perspective”, taught by Professor Sébastien Lechevalier and Professor Brieuc Monfort. The course, which is designed for international students, includes visits to organisations and institutions connected to Japan’s economy, providing participants with practical insights beyond the classroom.

The student group, representing a diverse range of countries including Indonesia, Germany, France, Italy, South Africa and the United Kingdom, had the opportunity to learn about the EBC’s mission, its advocacy work, and its role in promoting dialogue between the European business community and Japanese policymakers.

The session also provided an opportunity to discuss the evolving business environment in Japan and the importance of Europe-Japan economic relations. The EBC was pleased to contribute to the students’ understanding of the institutions and stakeholders that help shape Japan’s international business landscape.

We thank Mr. Lechevalier and Mr. Monfort for organising the visit and look forward to future opportunities to engage with students interested in Japan’s economy and Europe-Japan business relations.