Institute of Directors delegation visit to Japan showcases UK–Japan business synergy, innovation, and cultural exchange
London, 3 August 2025 – A high-level delegation from the Institute of Directors (IoD) UK, organised by its Japan Business Group, concluded a dynamic five-day visit to Osaka and Tokyo (7–11 July 2025), spotlighting the growing synergy between UK and Japanese businesses.
Led by Dr. Indranil Nath (Chair) and Rie Hamaguchi (Vice Chair), and supported by Alderman Prem Goyal CBE and Lord Trenchard, the group included 26 senior representatives from the UK’s technology, healthcare, finance, media, renewable energy, retail, and professional services sectors.
Osaka: Innovation, Startups, and Cultural Diplomacy
The programme opened in Osaka at the Mitsubishi UFJ Innovation Centre (MUIC Kansai), where MUFG welcomed delegates to explore cutting-edge startup support initiatives, macroeconomic trends, and the bank’s innovation roadmap. Quickfire business pitches from IoD delegates ignited lively conversations with Japanese counterparts around potential collaborations. Later that day, delegates experienced a unique blend of cultural diplomacy and heritage at Ohama Park Sumo Arena, hosted by the Sumo Project Executive Committee and Sakai City Government. Sponsored by Le Lien Co. Ltd, the evening featured live sumo demonstrations, traditional kaiseki dining, and showcased Osaka’s blend of deep-rooted tradition and modern hospitality.
Engaging Osaka’s Innovation Ecosystem
On 8 July, the delegation met with key regional stakeholders, including the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Osaka Innovation Hub, Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) Osaka, and Osaka Prefectural Government. Visits to the Entrepreneurial Museum and Nakanoshima Qross underscored Osaka’s strengths in regenerative medicine, with renowned surgeon Dr. Yoshiki Sawa presenting groundbreaking cardiac innovations. A formal reception with the Mayor of Osaka and the Financial City Promotion Committee concluded the day, reaffirming Osaka’s aspirations to be a global innovation and financial centre.
Expo 2025 and Shared Priorities
The delegation toured the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai site on 9 July, visiting pavilions hosted by the UK, NTT, and Mitsubishi Corporation, and the Osaka Healthcare Pavilion. Carolyn Davidson, Commissioner General of the UK Pavilion, and Michael Shearer OBE, Consul-General in Osaka, hosted the delegation at the UK Pavilion. Key themes such as AI in healthcare, sustainable cities, and digital twin technologies were explored by the delegation. Local Japanese companies presented their innovation projects, opening up for collaboration opportunities, which reflected the Expo’s alignment with IoD priorities in sustainability, innovation, and global partnerships. The group later travelled to Tokyo by Shinkansen (Bullet Train).
Tokyo: Policy Dialogue and Global Strategy
On 10 July, the delegates were hosted by the Baker McKenzie Tokyo office and convened the 11th Joint Roundtable between the IoD and Keizai Doyukai (Japan Association of Corporate Executives). The roundtable examined global trade disruptions, geopolitical dynamics, and investment opportunities. Senior officials from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), and Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) Tokyo shared insights on cross-border innovation, regulatory frameworks, and green finance. That evening, delegates joined The Delphi Network’s reception at Andaz Tokyo, connecting with business leaders and policymakers. Hosted by Dan and Rosie Slater, the event celebrated UK–Japan cooperation in sustainable growth and economic resilience.
Final Day: Deepening Insight and Closing on a High Note
The delegation’s final day, 11 July, began with a session at METI headquarters, featuring panels on Japan’s investment landscape, corporate governance, and evolving workplace culture. Speakers included representatives from METI, UBP Tokyo, Gallup Japan, and Taylor Brunswick Group. It was followed by a political affairs briefing at GR Japan and a visit to the National Diet. The programme concluded with a relaxed yet meaningful closing dinner at Andy’s Seafood Grill, marking the end of a mission rich in dialogue, discovery, and future opportunity.
“This visit demonstrated the extraordinary synergy between UK and Japanese innovation ecosystems,” said Dr. Indranil Nath, Chair of the IoD Japan Business Group and delegation lead. “It underscored the value of relationship-driven diplomacy and reaffirmed our commitment to sustainable growth through international collaboration.”
“This visit has reaffirmed the enduring strength of UK–Japan business ties. From innovation hubs in Osaka to boardroom dialogues in Tokyo, the delegation exemplified the IoD’s role as a bridge-builder across sectors and borders,” said Rie Hamaguchi, Vice Chair of the IoD Japan Business Group. We look forward to turning these engagements into long-term partnerships.”
The IoD Japan Business Group continues to foster strategic engagements that strengthen the bridge between UK and Japanese businesses, government, and innovation leaders, advancing a shared future built on trust, creativity, and resilience.
For media enquiries, please contact:
IoD Japan Business Group Secretariat
