The prefecture of Fukushima and the region of North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany exchange best practices on regional energy transition since 2013, on topics such as renewable energy and energy efficiency. In 2017, to accelerate the partnership and strengthen its industrial dimension by involving experts, local businesses, clusters and research institutes, an agreement was signed between the energy agencies of both regions, facilitating B2B activities, bilateral experts workshops and access to trade fairs.

Semiconductor industry is changing on a global scale and more and more European companies are presented with the incentives to join its global value chain. Japan remains one of the main global players in the semiconductor industry due to its robust electronics and IT markets.

Over time, Japan’s frozen food market is showing a growing trend. The retail sector experienced a large increase due to more home cooking. The report will provide information on recent trends and developments in the frozen food and ice cream market including possibilities for EU SMEs.

Japan has a flourishing premium food market which is one of the best in the world. Japanese demand for great tasting, high-quality and innovative food brands from EU firms remains very strong. In fact, because competition between retailers is intensifying, demand for new and exciting products from the EU not yet sold in Japan is increasing. There has never been a better time to sell to Japan.

This report will provide readers with a clear overview of the size of the Japanese apparel and textile market, the potential and opportunities, as well as lists of retail targets – and the distributors and trading companies that could partner in reaching them.

This report introduces the main factors that are supporting a growing interest in vega/vegetarianism in Japan; government policies and consumers promotional activities; examples in the distribution and retail sectors; information on certification and some tips to EU SMEs on what strategy to follow for a successful access into the Japanese veggie market.

Contractual Service Suppliers and Independent Professionals of the EU are allowed to supply services and engage in business activities in Japan. Engineer or Specialist in international services and humanities previously recognised. The EPA specifies 38 sectors for CSS. Contractual Service Suppliers generally depend on EU-based employers.

The EPA’s schedule of Japan lists 38 sectors where specific commitments apply. There are no quotas for those professionals entering Japan. Professionals of the EU covered by Annex 8-B (Annex III) depend on EU-based employers, whereas professionals of the EU covered by Annex 8-B (Annex IV) do not depend on EU-based employers.

The EU-Japan EPA grants professionals from EU countries access to Japan beyond what is secured by GATS. Access for short term business visitors (STBV) is outlined in the treaty for those employed by firms doing business in the host country. There are no quotas for STBV.STBV are tied to EU-based employers.

Access for business visitors for investment purposes (BVIP) is outlined in the treaty for those employed by firms doing business in Japan and the European Union. No quotas for business visitors from the European Union entering Japan for investment purposes. Professionals of the EU covered by 8-B Annex III are generally tied to EU-based employers.