Nobuyuki Nakajima, Managing Director of JETRO Dubai, Middle East and North Africa (Mena), highlights the role of the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) in facilitating Japanese companies' expansion into the UAE and other GCC countries.
Nakajima emphasized JETRO's pivotal role in enhancing bilateral trade relations between Japan and the UAE by supporting Japanese businesses entering the UAE market. "JETRO has assisted Japanese companies in exploring new markets in the region, boosting trade in sectors such as F&B, electronics, machinery, technology, healthcare, and start-ups. We support Japanese companies and brands through our initiatives to facilitate their presence and growth in the region," Nakajima stated during an interview.
JETRO Dubai's influence extends beyond the UAE, aiding Japanese businesses in expanding into neighboring markets like Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait. Nakajima outlined JETRO's contributions to promoting bilateral trade with the UAE, including market intelligence, trade missions, networking events, and business matching programs.
Established in 1981, JETRO Dubai has been a gateway for Japanese companies aiming to expand their presence in the UAE and the GCC. Nakajima highlighted milestones such as facilitating the formation of the UAE-Japan Joint Business Council in 2024, under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Initiative (CSPI).
JETRO has also addressed challenges like cultural and regulatory differences, offering consultancy and support to Japanese businesses. Economic fluctuations and political uncertainties in the region have been navigated through JETRO's adaptive strategies.
Sectors with high potential for bilateral trade include Japanese food exports, agri-tech, healthcare, and innovation. Japan's advanced technologies align with the UAE's needs for cutting-edge solutions in healthcare and food security.
Japanese startups and SMEs are playing a crucial role in fostering cooperation in AI, fintech, blockchain, and other tech verticals. JETRO supports Japanese companies looking to invest in the UAE and vice versa, through platforms like Invest in Japan and J-Bridge.
Looking ahead, JETRO plans to leverage events like Expo 2025 in Osaka to strengthen corporate and business links with the UAE. Upcoming projects include B2B online matching events and participation in major exhibitions like Arab Health 2025 and Gulfood 2025.
Stay connected with JETRO Dubai for the latest updates on their activities by following their Instagram account, JETRO_Dubai.
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