The EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation successfully concluded its Digital Business Mission to Japan, held on 14-18 October 2024. The mission centered around CEATEC 2024, one of Asia's largest tech events, hosted at Makuhari Messe. 9 European startups and SMEs from 8 European countries showcased cutting-edge technologies that captured significant attention in the Japanese market. The innovations ranged from advanced AI applications and state-of-the-art security solutions to innovative environmental sensors, demonstrating Europe's technological prowess.

Key highlights of the mission included:

• Successful pitch session at CEATEC's dedicated Pitch Stage
• AI in Europe session at the AI for All stage, attracting over 100 attendees
• Two mission participants, Yneuro, a French company, and Gaia-X, a European association, received CEATEC Global Awards for their innovative solutions
• Two others, Cequence (Slovakia) and AviSense.AI (Greece), were invited to the AiSalon, held at JETRO office in Tokyo, and pitched to the budding AI community in Tokyo
• Participation in Venture Cafe at CIC Tokyo, where companies pitched to the local innovation community both online and in person

The turnout at CEATEC 2024 was exceptional with a total attendance of 112,014 over 4 days. This mission underscored the strong technological ties between Europe and Japan, facilitating valuable connections and showcasing European innovation on the global stage. The EU-Japan Centre extends its gratitude to all participants, partners, and visitors who contributed to the mission's resounding success.