The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation is currently accepting applications to the call for…
The 9th edition of the Get Ready for Japan (GRFJ) programme brought together a motivated group of EU SME leaders for an intensive two-part training aimed at deepening their understanding of Japan’s unique business and cultural environment.
Designed specifically for EU SME executives, the programme provided direct insights into Japan’s business landscape by combining cultural awareness with practical market knowledge. Tailored to current business needs, the programme combined online lectures (19–23 May) with on-site sessions in Tokyo (9–13 June) and included Individual Company Meetings with Japanese firms. 11 participants from 11 SMEs across 9 EU member states completed both components.
The online component included 8 lectures covering Japanese culture, society, economy, business practices, market trends, and intercultural communication. The Tokyo on-site programme featured corporate visits, a full-day seminar on cross-cultural business negotiation, and a guided market tour.
All participants responded positively to the programme.
Testimonials:
“We concluded the programme with a strong sense of achievement and satisfaction. The cultural and business insights we gained have exceeded our expectations and equipped us with tools to approach Japanese clients in a more informed, respectful, and customized manner. The experience has contributed meaningfully to our professional growth and will shape the way we communicate and collaborate with Japanese partners going forward.”
By Gloria Iglesias Monzon, Founder, Micetrips Madrid S.L.
“The programme fully met my expectations. I established potential business leads and gained insights to refine our product presentation and communication. The training and lectures helped me feel more confident. I consider the programme a key step toward building partnerships in Japan. The programme structure was very well-balanced.”
By Riikka Tervonen, Owner, Akselin Herkkupaja Oy
The 10th edition of Get Ready for Japan will take place in October and November 2025.
Published: October 2025
The EU-Japan Centre currently produces 5 newsletters :
Joint venture established in 1987 by the European Commission (DG GROW) and the Japanese Government (METI) for promoting all forms of industrial, trade and investment cooperation between the EU and Japan.
