Get Ready for Japan - May / June 2026

We regret to inform you that, due to circumstances beyond our control, the Centre has decided to cancel its programme, Get Ready For Japan (GRFJ). We apologise for any inconvenience this cancellation may cause and thank you for your understanding.

PROGRAMME OBJECTIVES

“Get Ready for Japan” aims to help understand Japanese business practices and communication styles and identify opportunities for successful business partnerships. Additionally, the programme aims to provide insights into the decision-making process within Japanese companies, and help better understand of their negotiation style and hierarchy.

Finally, the programme intends to strengthen existing relationships with Japanese customers and establish new contacts with potential ones, thereby expanding the business's reach and impact.

PROGRAMME CONTENT

The programme consists of two phases.

Exclusive 2-phase Training Programme for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

→The first phase is an online programme from 18 to 22 May 2026. During this phase, participants will engage in virtual case studies and cross-cultural lectures, gaining insights into the Japanese business environment and management practices.

→The second phase is an on-site programme in Tokyo from 8 to 12 June 2026. During this phase, SME participants will have the opportunity to attend interactive seminars and workshops and schedule individual company meetings (ICMs) with Japanese companies of interest. The EU-Japan Centre's team and interpreters will support these ICMs, allowing SMEs to explore pre-established or new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

The number of participants for this programme is limited to 14.

PARTICIPANT PROFILE

Companies: this programme is open to Managers or Executives working for an SME^(*) based in the European Union, or in a country associated with the Single Market Programme, SME Pillar^(**); the headquarters of the company must be located in an EU/SMP country. 

(*) Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are companies that meet the standard criteria set by the European Commission to be classified as SMEs.

(**) Please check the status of your country here.

ELIGIBILITY

SELECTION

COSTS

The EU-Japan Centre will cover all expenses related to training, including speakers' fees, room rental, transportation for group activities, and interpreters. All participants are responsible for covering their travel and living expenses in Japan, including accommodation.

DEPOSIT & PENALITIES

Selected participants in the training programme must pay € 1,000 to secure their spot. This payment will be refunded after the programme is completed. Failure to secure or confirm their place by the attributed deadline will result in the cancellation of the application. 

The following penalties apply:

• If a participant cancels after paying the deposit, the deposit will be forfeited. 
• However, the deposit will be refunded in cases of force majeure, such as natural disasters or other unforeseeable circumstances beyond the participant's control. If the circumstances are unclear, a deposit refund will require explicit approval from the EU Managing Director. 
• If a participant fails to attend the training programme (which includes seminars, workshops, or company visits), a deduction of €100 will be applied for each day of absence without a valid reason. This amount is based on a 10-day training programme. 

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions