Sectors & markets
An immersive experience to discover Japan's unique business ecosystem.
As part of a visit linked to Expo 2025 in Osaka, a delegation from the Association Progrès du Management (Association for the Progress of Management/APM) — composed of a dozen business leaders from Normandy — took part in a week-long Learning Expedition in Japan, organized by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan.
The aim of this immersive experience was to discover the Japanese business ecosystem, focusing particularly on management practices, innovation, and industrial excellence. This journey provided participants with the opportunity to engage with key players in Japan’s economic and industrial landscape, gaining valuable insights into leadership, strategy, and the integration of innovation in both business and society.
Tokyo : A Hub of Innovation and Industry
The first four days of the expedition were spent in Tokyo, where participants attended seminars and engaged in a series of industry visits that offered first-hand exposure to cutting-edge developments in various sectors.
- Day 1 : Seminar at Crédit Agricole’s Tokyo Offices
The journey began with a full-day seminar hosted at Crédit Agricole’s Tokyo offices, featuring insightful presentations by key figures such as:
- Esther Thiebaut from the Economic Department of the French Embassy in Japan, who provided an overview of the Japanese economic landscape.
- Mehdi Matagne from the Business Development of French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan, who offered a comprehensive outlook on the Japanese market.
- Pierre Mustière CEO and Representative Director of Bouygues Asia, who shared insights into the corporate environment and business culture in Japan.
- François-Xavier Lienhart from Japan Advisory Services, with over 30 years of experience in Japan, shared his professional journey and insights on the local market.
- Day 2 : Obayashi Corporation's Research Center
The delegation then visited the Obayashi Corporation’s research center, where they learned about Japan’s cutting-edge construction industry. A highlight was the Grand Ring, a symbol of Expo 2025, built by Obayashi. The visit highlighted how Japan blends technology, tradition, and innovation in its approach to urban development.
- Day 3 : Mitsubishi Motors and the Future of Mobility
On the third day, the group visited Mitsubishi Motors, where they were given an overview of the company’s approach to electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and sustainable mobility. Mitsubishi’s strategy was presented as a forward-looking roadmap, balancing environmental responsibility with cutting-edge technological advancements.
- Day 4 : Nippon Steel's Kashima Works
The final day in east Japan concluded with a visit to Nippon Steel’s Kashima Works, one of the largest steel production sites in eastern Japan. Participants saw first-hand the scale and sophistication of Japanese industrial technology, including the blast furnace (BF) and basic oxygen furnace (BOF) technologies used in steel production. This visit provided a rare insight into the industrial heart of Japan.
Osaka : A Deep Dive into Innovation and Global Collaboration
After the intensive days in Tokyo, the second part of the journey took place in Osaka, a dynamic hub for industry, innovation, and global business collaboration.
- Day 5: High-level Meetings at the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Osaka Office
The day began with a visit to the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan’s Osaka office, where Benoît Rulleau, CEO of Kansai Airports and board member of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan, discussed his leadership experience in managing one of Japan’s busiest airports. He highlighted the airport’s innovations aimed at improving passenger experience and its strategies for disaster management. The morning continued with Jean-François Rauch, Head of Regional Branches & Activity / Kansai Desk Manager, who gave an overview of the activities and services of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan outside of Tokyo.
- Day 6 : Expo 2025 Osaka – A Glimpse into the Future
The following day was dedicated to exploring Expo 2025 Osaka. Participants were guided through the French Pavilion by Sophie Braincourt, Director of Partnerships for the French Pavilion, where they experienced an immersive presentation showcasing France's cultural, artistic, and technological excellence. The theme of the pavilion, “Hymn to Love”, reflects the values of connection, sustainability, and innovation.
Throughout the day, the group also visited other national pavilions, including those of Japan, Belgium, Italy, and China, to explore each country’s approach to sustainable development, digital transformation, and global collaboration under the central Expo theme: “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”.
A Unique Opportunity to Connect, Learn, and Innovate
This Learning Expedition was not only an educational journey but also a platform for connecting with leading stakeholders in the Japanese business community. The experience has opened new doors for participants, providing them with valuable perspectives on global leadership, strategic innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration.
