INSTAR and JBCE forge a new path in global technology standardisation
A significant moment for international cooperation in digital standards was marked by the official signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the INSTAR consortium, and the Japan Business Council in Europe (JBCE). This agreement is a vital step in strengthening the Digital Partnership between the EU and Japan, contributing to global efforts in the development of international standards in key technological areas.
A milestone for global digital cooperation
The MoU signing ceremony took place on 19th March 2025 at SONY Europe in Brussels, was attended by senior representatives from both organisations, the European Commission, and key stakeholders from across the industry including Shozo Maeda, Secretary General, Japan Business Council in Europe (JBCE); Mikaela Nilsson, Senior Policy Manager, Japan Business Council in Europe (JBCE); Inna Peda, Chair of Standards & Conformity, Japan Business Council in Europe (JBCE); Kazue Daigo, Vice-Chair, Standards & Conformity, Japan Business Council in Europe (JBCE); Tomoko Ohara, Standards & Conformity, Japan Business Council in Europe (JBCE); Hidetaka Ozawa, Policy Manager, Japan Business Council in Europe (JBCE); Martin Bell, Vice-Chair, Digital Innovation, Japan Business Council in Europe (JBCE); Hiroki Shigemitsu, Policy Manager, Japan Business Council in Europe (JBCE); Dr Tanya Suarez, CEO, BluSpecs and INSTAR Coordinator; Damir Filipovic, Secretary General, AIOTI and INSTAR Task Force Coordinator; Valentina Peniche, AIOTI; Carlos López-Rodríguez, Policy Officer, DG CNECT D3 and Emilio Dávila González, Head of ICT Standardisation Sector, DG CNECT.
The Japan Business Council in Europe (JBCE), founded in 1999, has long been at the forefront of promoting the interests of over 100 multinational companies of Japanese origin operating across Europe. The JBCE members span a wide array of sectors, including information and communication technology, electronics, automotive, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and more. Their deep expertise and engagement in the European market make them an ideal partner for INSTAR in advancing global standardisation objectives.
A strategic collaboration
This MoU represents a key milestone in the ongoing efforts to align international standardisation activities and create a harmonised framework for the digital economy. The agreement highlights the mutual commitment of Europe and Japan to drive forward key areas of technological development while ensuring that interoperability, security, and sustainability are at the heart of global standardisation efforts.
The collaboration between INSTAR and the JBCE is set to pave the way for future initiatives, with a focus on enhancing AI, Quantum, 5G, IoT, and data technologies across Europe and Japan. This partnership is particularly relevant in today’s globalised digital landscape, where cross-border cooperation is essential for maintaining a competitive edge and fostering innovation on a global scale.
Collaborative roadmaps for global impact
As both parties move forward with this collaboration, the focus will shift to the creation of actionable roadmaps and frameworks that can be used as blueprints for international policy, corporate governance, and industry practices. The INSTAR consortium is eager to build on this partnership and continue working with the JBCE and other international stakeholders to promote the development of global standards that will drive digital transformation and foster an inclusive, sustainable, and secure digital future for all.
