Italy and japan Strengthen Economic Ties: A New Era of Collaboration
Tokyo, Japan – January 17, 2026 – Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni concluded a series of pivotal meetings in Tokyo today with leaders from seventeen of Japan’s most influential companies, signaling a renewed commitment to bolstering economic, industrial, and technological cooperation between the two nations. The assembled Japanese corporations represent a collective turnover exceeding one trillion euros and operate across a diverse range of strategically vital sectors.
The discussions centered on reinforcing the “Special Strategic Partnership” between Italy and Japan, with a particular focus on key industries including aerospace, defense, infrastructure, rail, automotive, digital technologies, innovation, electrical and electronic equipment, pharmaceuticals, finance, commerce, and the food industry.
During the meetings, prime Minister Meloni emphasized the favorable investment climate in Italy, highlighting the political stability and proactive governmental measures designed to attract foreign investment. These initiatives include the streamlined “ZES Unica” (Unified Special Economic Zone) and various incentives aimed at fostering employment and technological innovation within Italian businesses.The Prime Minister underscored Italy’s commitment to providing a supportive environment for Japanese companies seeking to expand their operations and contribute to the Italian economy.
Furthermore,the dialog addressed critical global challenges such as the dynamics of international trade,the resilience of supply chains,and the secure sourcing of critical raw materials. These conversations reflect a shared understanding of the need for collaborative strategies to navigate an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
Key figures participating in the meetings included: Hiroshi Ide (President, IHI), Yoshinori Kanehana (Chairman of the Board, Kawasaki Heavy Industries), Eisaku Ito (President & CEO, mitsubishi Heavy Industries & Co-Chairman of the Italy-Japan Business Group), Noriya Kaihara (Executive Vice President, Honda Motor), Koji Sato (President, Toyota Motor), Toshiaki Higashihara (Executive Chairman, Hitachi & Vice President Europe of Keidanren), Kei Uruma (President & CEO, Mitsubishi Electric), Eiichi Katayama (Executive Vice President, Panasonic), Kenichiro Yoshida (Executive Chairman, Sony Group Corporation), Kazuhiko Nakayama (Senior Executive Vice president/CFO, NTT DATA Group), Milano Furuta (Chief Financial Officer, Takeda), Motoya Okada (Chairman of the Board, AEON), Kenichi Hori (President & CEO, Mitsui & Co.), Masayuki Omoto (President & CEO, Marubeni), Keita Ishii (President & Chief Operating Officer/CSO, Itochu), Hironori Kamezawa (President & Group CEO, Mitsubishi UFJ financial Group), and Makoto Takashima (Chairman of the Board, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation).
This series of meetings represents a significant step forward in strengthening the economic relationship between Italy and Japan, paving the way for increased investment, innovation, and collaboration in the years to come. The commitment from both sides signals a shared vision for a prosperous and mutually beneficial future.
Keywords: Italy, Japan, Giorgia Meloni, Economic Cooperation, Investment, Trade, Innovation, Technology, Business, International Relations.
