'About Japan' webinar series 259: Pharmaceutical Industry in Japan

Japan’s pharmaceutical market: Recent developments and how EU SMEs could add value

Japan is the world’s third largest pharmaceutical market. In 2023, the government launched a series of reforms to accelerate access to new medicines and strengthen the country’s competitiveness in the global pharmaceutical landscape. A comprehensive roadmap was introduced to attract investment and promoting innovation within the domestic industry.

With demographic shifts, strong R&D foundations, and expanding global cooperation, Japan’s pharmaceutical market is creating new opportunities for European companies. EU SMEs could bring distinctive value through adaptability, specialisation, and collaborative flexibility. Many possess expertise in biopharmaceutical formulations, nano-based drug delivery systems, and regenerative medicine, areas that complement Japan’s manufacturing strengths.

EU firms’ strengths in AI-assisted drug discovery, advanced data analytics, and sustainable production align with Japan’s focus on smart and eco-friendly healthcare.

Through their ability to integrate research and commercialisation, EU firms are well positioned to support Japan’s drive for faster and more diversified innovation.

The webinar is targeted to EU SMEs seeking to enter or strengthen their current positions in Japan’s pharmaceutical market.

In 40 minutes from your desk, discover:

• The dynamics of Japan’s pharmaceutical market, including key drivers and challenges
• Overview of the regulatory framework
• Major domestic players, including foreign actors
• Emerging business opportunities for EU firms to tap into
• Key factors for an effective market entry into Japan

Programme:

• Introduction
• Expert’s presentation
• Q&A Session

Speaker:
Maths Lundin, founder of Sweden Japan Consulting Co., Ltd. (SJC K.K.) has more than 35 years of business experience in Japan, including sectors such as interim management, home appliances and food service equipment. In 2008, he founded a consulting firm supporting European companies entering the Japanese market.

Moderator: Sofia Smerzi, Business Support Coordinator, EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation

Organiser: EU-Japan Centre for Industrial Cooperation - Brussels Office

Deliverables