Strengthening UK-Japan ties through industrial innovation policy

A significant step towards bolstering industrial innovation policy cooperation between the UK and Japan took place on 9th October at the British Embassy in Tokyo.

The workshop, organised in collaboration with the British Embassy in Tokyo, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the Institute for Manufacturing, and the Babbage Policy Forum, brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators from both nations.

Dave Smith, the UK’s National Technology Adviser, and Takahiro Ueyama, Executive Member of the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation and adviser to the Prime Minister, led discussions between UK and Japanese delegations. The discussions aimed to foster dialogue on international policy approaches to industrial innovation, focusing on shared challenges and opportunities.

Attendees explored solutions to create impactful strategies, ensuring both countries remain competitive in today’s rapidly evolving global landscape while rebuilding industrial capabilities.

In her opening remarks, British Ambassador to Japan, Julia Longbottom, emphasised the natural partnership between the UK and Japan: “Japan and the UK are natural partners in addressing some of the complex challenges our world faces, and tackling innovation is at the heart of how we do this. This conversation was well-timed to help both countries build better innovation systems.”

Key sessions and discussions

Throughout the day, key sessions offered insights into various aspects of industrial and technological policy, with a focus on bridging the gap between scientific advancements and real-world applications. Discussions centred around emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and advanced materials and the critical role these sectors play in future growth.

Cambridge Industrial Innovation Policy’s Dr Carlos López-Gómez spoke on the changing value and structure of the UK manufacturing sector, stating that there are substantial opportunities to capture and reflect the influence of manufacturing activities within the economy more comprehensively.

Dr Carlos López-Gómez and Sir Mike Gregory

Participants also examined how alternative data sources can drive forward-thinking industrial policies and uncover the true value of manufacturing in both nations.

The event concluded with a networking reception, during which participants continued discussing the future of UK-Japan collaboration in industrial innovation.

“This gathering showcased an inspiring exchange of ideas on how science, technology, and industrial policy can come together to shape the future of global innovation. From exploring sectoral strategies and bridging the gaps between research and application to leveraging alternative data for policy development, the discussions highlighted the valuable insights we can gain by learning from each other’s experiences and approaches.”

 

Professor Sir Mike Gregory, Chair of the Babbage Policy Forum, University of Cambridge.

The workshop was a vital platform for exchanging knowledge and building partnerships that will shape future industrial policies, reinforcing the strong ties between the two nations.