JETRO, or the Japan External Trade Organization, is a government-related organization that works to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan and the rest of the world. Originally established in 1958 to promote Japanese exports abroad, JETRO’s core focus in the 21st century has shifted toward promoting foreign direct investment into Japan and helping small to medium size Japanese firms maximize their global export potential.
Kozo Saiki, Director-General of JETRO Brussels speaks with Bridges on the eve of the 160th anniversary of Japan – Belgium partnership
Bridges: As we mark 160 years of diplomatic relationship, what is your vision for business ties in 2026 and beyond?
Saiki: As we celebrate 160 years of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Japan, we honor a partnership built on trust and shared values. Our Brussels office is the oldest in the European continent, symbolizing the strategic importance of Belgium as a gateway to Europe. Furthermore, Expo 1958 held here in Brussels, marked a historic moment as the first World Expo where JETRO organized the Japan Pavilion.
These milestones reflect Belgium’s role not only as a valued trade partner but also as a strategic hub in Europe. Today, our economic relationship continues to evolve in response to global challenges and opportunities. We were delighted to welcome economic delegations from Belgium to Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, focusing on key sectors such as life sciences, green technology and digital transformation. These areas represent the future sustainable growth and innovation, and they are fields where both our nations excel.
What talent and skills links between Japan and Belgium matter most right now?
Looking ahead, Japan and Belgium share a responsibility to contribute to a resilient and inclusive world economy. Imec’s technical cooperation with Rapidus exemplifies a new approach to rebuilding Japan’s semiconductor industry in partnership with like-minded global leaders.
Imec is the world-leading research and innovation hub in nanoelectronics and digital technologies. For over 40 years, the company has been at the forefront of semiconductor innovation, working with industry leaders, startups, and academia to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
As we celebrate 160 years of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Japan, we honor a partnership built on trust and shared values.
Kozo Saiki, Director-General of JETRO Brussels
By leveraging Imec’s world-class expertise in advanced semiconductor, Rapidus is laying the foundation for next-generation chip manufacturing in Japan.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, technological excellences, and the creation of a resilient supply chain that supports global digital transformation. Another prime example is the collaboration between N-SIDE and the Japan Electric Power Exchange (JEPX) in operating Japan’s day-ahead electricity market.
By leveraging N-SIDE’s advanced optimization technology, JPEX can facilitate effective price formation and resource allocation, ensuring reliability and efficiency for market participants nationwide. This collaboration demonstrates how combining technical expertise with deep market knowledge can deliver tangible benefits for the energy sector.
What new steps is JETRO taking to deepen Japan–Belgium ties?
JETRO is committed to supporting this collaboration through initiatives like J-Bridge, a dedicated program that connects Japanese companies with global start-ups to foster open innovation. Through J-Bridge, we aim to create partnerships that accelerate technological progress and deliver solutions to pressing global issues.
J-Bridges facilitates cooperation between Japanese companies and overseas startups for the development of new businesses.
As we mark this historic anniversary, let us reaffirm our commitment to working together with our counterparts, Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT), hub.brussels, Wallonia Export & Investment (AWEX) and related institutions and innovators alike to build a future that reflects our shared values of openness, sustainability and prosperity.
Together, Belgium and Japan can continue to be trusted partners, shaping a better world for generations to come.
