Advancing Global Partnerships at Productronica 2025 in Germany.

From November 18–21, I had the opportunity to attend Productronica in Munich, one of the world’s leading exhibitions for electronics manufacturing.

We accompanied with City of Sapporo's booth, which was represented by members from the City of Sapporo and Hokkaido University. With company booth visits, meetings with academic partners, and individual appointments arranged by our local collaborators, the week proved to be extremely productive.

Productronica is truly a global hub for the industry. In 2024, the event brought together more than 1,400 exhibitors and over 42,000 visitors, with 88% being industry professionals and decision-makers. The clarity of purpose in each business discussion — and the firm handshakes that followed — strongly reminded me how essential it is to participate with a clear understanding of both what we seek and what we can offer.

Several meetings progressed into concrete discussions on potential collaboration, including the Munich Innovation Ecosystem. We were also delighted to reconnect with our ongoing supporting companies on behalf of Sapporo Transnational Expansion and Partnership (STEP), as well as representatives from JETRO Munich.

One of our supporting companies in quantum industry has remarkable growth to nearly 100 employees within just one year, which is particularly impressive, and we greatly look forward to supporting their future development in Japan.

Our sincere thanks go to Invest in Bavaria – The Business Promotion Agency of the State of Bavaria, SEMI Europe, CESGA, and TUM Venture Labs, all of whom provided valuable introductions and support throughout the week.

When you visit Japan, please come to Sapporo — we would be delighted to welcome you.
Danke!