The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation is an international entity that offers a broad variety of services and programmes to facilitate and nurture business relationships between the European Union and Japan. This organization operates across various facets of industry, ranging from internships in Japanese companies, training programmes and workshops on lean management, to facilitating market access and business missions in Japan across multiple sectors such as biotech, digital, green, and nanotech.

One of the standout initiatives of the Centre is the Vulcanus programme which provides opportunities for internships in Japanese companies. This effectively fosters cross-cultural connections and professional development. Another major initiative is the significant emphasis on lean management, with Masterclass, visits to European sites and Cafe discussions forming part of the educational, hands-on approach taken by the centre.

Furthermore, the Centre offers assistance with market access, creating detailed business plans while also providing opportunities for business missions in Japan. This initiative is spread across various industries, including but not limited to digital, green technology, biotech and nanotechnology SMEs, and is supported via collaboration with Enterprise Europe Network. This makes the Centre a hub for potential business opportunities.

In an effort to further promote Japanese-EU business collaborations, the Centre offers a range of services such as hosting Japanese interns in Research and Development departments, providing logistical support in Japan as well as promoting European products and services in Japan in fields such as organic food, green technology and digital platforms.

In addition to the hands-on business services, the Centre also conducts research and hosts policy related activities. This includes the organization of the EU-Japan Business Round Table, publishing an Industry and Policy newsletter and hosting policy seminars. There is also an emphasis on technological research and development, with provisions for technology transfer and space cooperation, supported by a national contact point for Horizon Europe.

The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation successfully manages to cater to a wide array of industrial sectors and provides a well-rounded and comprehensive resource for businesses interested in exploring opportunities in the Japanese market or simply seeking to understand the dynamics of the cross-cultural market. The Centre stands out as holding a important role in fostering connections and facilitating successful collaboration between European and Japanese businesses. Their commitment to education, support and fostering long-term relationships is noteworthy.