Bridges: What have been your international experiences?
Haga: Having lived and worked in North America, Singapore, and Bangkok, I have developed a comprehensive international perspective across various business environments. I recently arrived in the Netherlands, and I am eager to engage with our clients, partners, and friends during my time here.
What role does the Japan Chamber of Commerce paly in improving Japan – Netherlands relations?
The Chamber’s role is to support the Japanese community and assist expatriates living and working in the Netherlands. After Brexit, the number of Japanese companies in the Netherlands has doubled over the past decade. With approximately 390 Japanese companies in the Netherlands, the Japan Chamber of Commerce is the second largest Japanese chamber in Europe. As JCC, we aim to provide our member companies with as many opportunities as possible to understand and use the innovative power of the Netherlands to grow their respective businesses in areas such as energy transition, high tech (semiconductor, AI, data center), life science, e-mobility, agriculture, etc.
We collaborate closely with the government and are committed to continuing our significant work, especially as we celebrate our 425-year anniversary. Additionally, we are involved in organizing the annual Japanese festival.
What attracts Japanese companies to the Netherlands?
The attractiveness of the Netherlands for Japanese companies includes the availability of highly skilled personnel with excellent English language skills, its geographical location in the center of Europe and the existence of extensive business innovation hubs.
Japan and the Netherlands share common interests in areas such as decarbonization initiatives, where the two countries can bring together specific business cases and necessary new technologies and work together to make them a reality.
How is Mitsubishi Corporation involved with the Osaka Expo?
As a member of Mitsubishi General Committee, which comprises 30 Mitsubishi Group companies, we are involved in Expo 2025 Osaka, notably through the design and construction of the Mitsubishi Pavilion. This Pavilion is designed around the concept of ‘Keeping the World Vibrant’ and presents an exhibition themed ‘From the Unknown Deep Sea to the Distant Universe.’ At the expo, we will showcase Mitsubishi’s solutions and services to initiate discussions on the company’s contributions to the society of the future.
What areas of business is Mitsubishi Netherlands actively involved in?
We have a diverse portfolio and are committed to investing in energy initiatives that benefit Dutch society. As the 18th managing director of Mitsubishi in the Netherlands, I am proud to contribute to the country’s economic landscape. In 2026, we will celebrate Mitsubishi Netherlands’ 60th anniversary, reflecting on our achievements and ongoing commitment to the Dutch economy.
What are your thoughts on the Japan-Netherlands relationship, especially during this year’s 425-year celebrations?
Japan and the Netherlands enjoy a robust relationship that we hope to sustain for many years.
Ryusuke “Ryu” Haga, Managing Director of Mitsubishi Nederland B.V. and Board Member of the Japan Chamber of Commerce
Japan and the Netherlands enjoy a robust relationship that we hope to sustain for many years. Trust is a cornerstone of our partnership, and with our shared appreciation of culture and the arts, our mutual economic goals, and our harmonious friendship, we are eager to celebrate this 425-year anniversary and look forward to a prosperous future together.
