Key industrial and trade cooperation between Japan and Europe

VDMA President Bertram Kawlath visited Japan, where he met with representatives of local industry and politicians. In Tokyo, he emphasised that closer cooperation offers enormous opportunities specifically in mechanical engineering and equipment manufacturing. “Both countries have highly developed, export-oriented industries that depend on open markets and reliable framework conditions,” Kawlath stated. In his view, deepening mutual relations is a key step towards strengthening multilateral trade and jointly overcoming current challenges.

VDMA has been cooperating with the Japan Machinery Federation (JMF) for many years. Regular meetings and exchanges of experience are an established part of their bilateral relations. Kawlath emphasises that technological cooperation offers the greatest potential, particularly in the field of Industry 4.0.

European companies have made significant progress in digitalisation, automation, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things in recent years. Japan is a strong partner in these areas, with a developed industrial base. “It is time to leverage synergies with Japan and deepen partnerships to further advance the development of Industry 4.0 and fully exploit the potential of these technologies,” urged the VDMA President.