Kyushu Event report
Looking Back at the 2026 France–Japan Economic Forum in Fukuoka, Kyushu Desk
Mr. Bernard Delmas's exceptional intervention sparked fruitful discussions and valuable exchanges among participants.
On May 28, the CCIFJ 2026 Economic Forum in Fukuoka provided an opportunity for rich discussions and valuable exchanges during an exceptional presentation by Bernard Delmas. This edition brought together around sixty participants around the theme: “Supporting Companies Beyond Borders: Global Leadership Through the Experiences of Michelin and Nissan.”
Following a brief presentation of the Chamber’s activities by our Director of Regional Offices, we had the privilege of welcoming Bernard Delmas, former executive of Michelin and Nissan Motor Corporation, who generously shared his experience and insights during a particularly engaging and thought-provoking presentation.
Having arrived in Japan in the 1980s, Bernard Delmas has witnessed firsthand the profound transformations the country has undergone over the past four decades. Drawing on this unique perspective, he highlighted how international leadership relies on a delicate balance between global vision, local adaptation, and intercultural openness. These challenges remain more relevant than ever for companies seeking to expand and thrive internationally.
A question-and-answer session followed, allowing participants to further explore the topics raised during the presentation and gain additional insights into the many questions and concerns facing businesses today. Attendees enthusiastically took advantage of this opportunity to engage directly with the speaker.
Participants highly appreciated the quality of the discussions and continued their conversations during the networking session that followed. This convivial moment, accompanied by coffee and a selection of French pastries that were particularly enjoyed by guests, helped extend the exchanges in a warm and lively atmosphere. The forum concluded at 5:30 p.m., although many participants were still engaged in conversation, already looking forward to future opportunities to meet again.
We would like to extend our warmest thanks to the Fukuoka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI), with whom we co-organized this forum. Our sincere gratitude also goes to the City of Fukuoka and the Institut français du Kyushu for their valuable support in making this event possible.
Finally, we would like to thank all participants for their attendance and for the quality of the exchanges throughout the afternoon.
