Gunma Event report
Recap of the France–Japan Import-Export Seminar in Gunma
On Monday, June 30, CCIFJ Gunma held its very first event at the Gunma Prefectural Government Building since opening in January 2025.
Focused on the theme of import-export between France and Gunma, this inaugural event was a great success, bringing together over 35 participants.
The first part of the event, held in the form of a seminar, took place at Netsugen Seminar Space, located on the 32nd floor of the prefectural building. Offering a panoramic view of the surrounding Maebashi mountains, this modern coworking space also features a seminar room that can accommodate around fifty people.
The seminar opened with a speech by Takashi SOMEYA, Director of the Future Investment and Digital Industry Division at the prefecture, who highlighted Gunma’s strong commitment to supporting the development of the CCIFJ office and strengthening Franco-Japanese economic relations. We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the Gunma Prefecture for its valuable financial and logistical support as the event’s official sponsor.
As an introduction, Justine BAILLY, Manager of the Gunma Desk, and Louna WANG, Project Manager of Start in France, presented the activities of the CCIFJ and the latest news from the Gunma office, emphasizing the Chamber’s growing interest in expanding its initiatives beyond Tokyo.
The main part of the seminar featured two CCIFJ member companies based in Gunma:
- Kōki YUASA, Director of Aritaya, a soy sauce producer exporting notably to France, spoke about the international development of his business. He shared his experience in seeking French partners and participating in trade shows in France. He also stressed the importance of preserving the artisanal production of natural soy sauce and maintaining the rich culinary heritage of Japan, even abroad.
- Kurumi TADOKORO, Director of NAC, an importer and distributor of Guérande salt in Japan, introduced the unique qualities of this emblematic product, illustrated with photos from her recent trip to France, where she visited salt marshes and met local producers. She also addressed the challenges her company faces in the current uncertain global economic climate, which has had an impact on their activities in Japan.
In the second part of the event, participants gathered for a friendly French-style aperitif in the Gingham kitchen area, located on the 31st floor, an ideal setting for informal receptions. The guests, mostly Japanese, enjoyed French wines and typical aperitif delicacies. Aritaya and NAC also offered tastings of their products: natural soy sauce and Guérande salt.
This reception was made possible thanks to the support of Netsugen, whose coordinators we warmly thank for their valuable assistance, which greatly contributed to the success of this convivial gathering.
We look forward to welcoming you again very soon for upcoming events in Gunma!
