The EU and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in research and innovation (R&I), with plans to finalise Japan’s association with Horizon Europe by the end of 2025
This announcement was made during high-level talks on the sidelines of the Science and Technology for Society Forum held in Kyoto.
Closer research ties for global impact
The association would mark a significant step forward in EU and Japan relations, allowing Japanese researchers and institutions to participate in Horizon Europe’s programmes on an equal footing with their European counterparts. The collaboration is expected to boost international research efforts on global challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, energy, mobility, health, and advanced industrial technologies.
The formal negotiations, which began in November 2024, are now set to conclude next year. If successful, Japanese organisations will be able to take part in Horizon Europe’s 2026/2027 Work Programme, particularly in Pillar II, focused on collaborative research that addresses major global issues.
Advanced materials identified as a priority
Alongside the progress on Horizon Europe association, both sides welcomed the findings of an expert report under the EU-Japan Enhanced Dialogue on Advanced Materials. The independent expert group, made up of 12 specialists, identified five key areas where the EU and Japan share critical needs and complementary strengths: construction, energy, mobility, electronics, and data-driven R&D.
The report is expected to serve as a roadmap for future joint projects and policy discussions. Areas such as smart maintenance in construction and fast-curing sealants for industrial manufacturing were highlighted as promising fields for cooperation.
A strategic partnership
Japan has been a partner for the EU in science and technology for over two decades. The two sides signed a Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement in 2011, laying the foundation for collaborative research, industrial innovation, and scientific excellence.
In 2015, a Joint Vision was adopted, identifying shared priorities in areas like information and communication technology, health, environment, aeronautics, and high-energy physics. This was followed by enhanced mechanisms for joint funding, researcher mobility, and closer policy alignment, including collaboration between the European Research Council (ERC) and Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).
The EU and Japan partnership was further strengthened in 2020 through a Letter of Intent that aligned Horizon Europe with Japan’s ambitious Moonshot R&D programme. This alignment opened doors for cooperation on global challenges, including pandemic preparedness, ageing societies, and the digital and green transitions.
Joint funding opportunities
As part of the Horizon Europe 2025 Work Programme, two specific topics have already been identified for collaboration with Japan, with a combined funding of €60 million. These projects will focus on the development of innovative advanced materials:
- For monitoring and smart maintenance strategies in construction.
- For robust, fast-curing sealants and coatings used in manufacturing and final assembly.
These targeted calls reflect the shared interest in using advanced materials to improve sustainability, durability, and performance across multiple industrial sectors.
Looking ahead
The commitment to conclude Horizon Europe association negotiations by the end of 2025 signals a new chapter in EU and Japan cooperation. By pooling resources, expertise, and innovation capacities, both sides aim to deliver scientific breakthroughs that can drive competitiveness and improve lives on both sides of the globe.
