The Japanese semiconductor market - a key target for European SMEs

The European Union is organizing a business mission to Japan from December 15 to 19, 2025, targeting small and medium-sized enterprises in the semiconductor sector. The mission will be held within the framework of the SEMICON Japan 2025 trade fair, which annually attracts over 103,000 visitors.

The target audience of the mission are European SMEs engaged in the design, production, and services related to semiconductors, including components, manufacturing equipment, and metal processing. Participants will have the opportunity to present their products and technologies at a special EU pavilion at the exhibition, conduct pre-arranged business meetings with Japanese companies, and receive cultural and language support.

Japan is an attractive destination for European SMEs due to the size of its economy, the expected growth of the semiconductor market to 46.5 billion euros by 2025, and its ambitious plans for green transformation and strengthening local capabilities in the sector. The Japanese government is investing 62 billion euros by 2030 to support research and development, production, and talent development in the field of semiconductors and artificial intelligence.

The mission is financed by the EU and provides participants with additional services, such as pre-arranged business meetings, market information, cultural and language support, as well as partial coverage of accommodation and exhibition participation fees.

The application deadline is September 12, 2025. Interested SMEs must meet certain criteria, such as a minimum number of years of existence, financial results, ownership origin, and experience in international cooperation.

The organization of the mission is entrusted to the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which can provide additional information and assistance to potential participants.