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EPIC exhibits on Germany´s Berlin Partners pavilion in Japan By Carlos Lee, Director General


its longstanding reputation for technological innovation and high demand for advanced optical and photonic technologies across many sectors. With a rich and vibrant history of research and development in optics, Japan boasts a robust ecosystem of many large and old companies, as well as world-reputed research institutions. You may be familiar with companies such as Nikon, Canon, Olympus, Sumitomo Electric Industries, Hamamatsu Photonics, Hoya, and Ohara. The country’s strong


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manufacturing capabilities, coupled with a culture that values precision and quality, make it an ideal hub for producing cutting-edge photonics devices and components. Additionally, Japan’s geographical location facilitates collaborations with neighbouring Asian markets. From telecommunications to healthcare, automotive to space, and consumer electronics, Japan’s influence in the photonics industry extends far and wide, driving innovation and shaping the future of optical technologies on a global scale. Japan and Germany have a


long history of collaboration that is rooted in a mutual respect for technological prowess, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. Both of these nations are renowned for their engineering skills, and precision manufacturing. This powerful shared ethos has fostered numerous partnerships and collaborations over the past decades, covering machinery


28 Electro Optics May 2024


apan is a strong and important market for the photonics industry due to


EPIC with the team from Berlin Partners on the pavilion at OPIE in Yokohama, Japan


equipment, automotive, electronics and, of course, also photonics. Furthermore, cultural similarities, such as a focus on efficiency, reliability, and quality – and shared values such as trust and a respect of deadlines – facilitate cooperation between companies from both countries. These deep-rooted ties continue to strengthen, providing a solid foundation for ongoing collaboration and the exchange of knowledge and expertise between Japan and Germany. In the continuous pursuit to help European members of EPIC expand their sales through expansion in international markets, EPIC was present at the


OPIE exhibition in Yokohama, where the governmental agency Berlin Partners staged the largest foreign pavilion. EPIC organised a delegation that visited local companies, and arranged an event where members could learn about leading Japanese companies, and meet the country’s distributors. When venturing into the


Japanese market, partnering with local distributors is essential for efficiently navigating this unique business landscape. Japan has a distinct business culture, characterised by strong relationships, intricate social hierarchies, and a preference for conducting business through trusted intermediaries


in the Japanese language. Local distributors possess invaluable knowledge of the market dynamics and customer requirements. Moreover, they have established networks of contacts and distribution channels that facilitate market penetration and brand visibility. By contracting local distributors, foreign companies can leverage their expertise to tailor marketing strategies, localise products, and provide superior customer support, ultimately increasing their chances of success in Japan’s competitive market. EPIC members can, of course, contact me directly for an introduction to suitable distributors. EO


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