Japan is set to become one of the closest international partners in Horizon Europe, the European Union’s €93.5 billion research and innovation program.
Negotiations between the European Commission and Japan have concluded successfully, paving the way for a formal partnership with Horizon Europe, scheduled for 2026.
The agreement heralds a new era of global cooperation, allowing Japanese researchers to play a leading role in projects tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Commenting on the partnership, Ekaterina Zakharieva, Minister for Start-ups, Research and Innovation, said: “Openness and international cooperation must guide the future of science and technology.
“We believe that scientific cooperation can build bridges, even in difficult geopolitical times.
“We look forward to strengthening our partnership by adding Japan to the 22 countries already partnering with Horizon Europe.”
Expanding opportunities for Japanese researchers
The agreement will enable Japanese institutions to lead and coordinate their own research initiatives within Horizon Europe.
Japanese researchers will be eligible to apply for funding, collaborate with EU partners and engage with other relevant countries, opening the door to innovative multinational projects.
The focus will be on the second pillar of the program, which addresses social challenges such as digital transition, food security and the development of climate-neutral energy.
Under the transitional measures, Japanese companies will be recognized as “eligible companies” by the relevant countries and will be able to participate in Horizon Europe’s open call from 2026 and contribute to joint research immediately, pending the completion of formal collaboration procedures.
Horizon Europe expands globally
The Japanese association follows Horizon Europe’s recent international expansion.
South Korea joined the program earlier this year, and recent partners include Switzerland, Egypt, Canada, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand.
This growth reflects the EU’s commitment to fostering innovation on a global scale and building international networks that can address complex scientific and societal challenges.
Long-standing strategic partnership
Japan has been an important partner in Europe’s science and technology field for more than 20 years.
Bilateral cooperation has steadily progressed, starting with the Science and Technology Cooperation Agreement in 2011, the Joint Vision in 2015, and the signing of the Letter of Intent in May 2020.
The conclusion of these negotiations builds on this foundation and represents a major milestone for research and innovation cooperation between the EU and Japan.
Horizon Europe is poised to strengthen cross-border innovation and research cooperation, with an anticipated partnership with Japan.
Researchers from Japan and Europe will have an unprecedented opportunity to share knowledge, secure funding and develop projects that address global challenges, from advancing digital technologies to delivering climate-neutral energy solutions.
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