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Latvia–Japan Investment Forum Held in Tokyo on May 19
On May 19, the Latvia–Japan Investment Forum took place in Tokyo. It was organized by the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA) in cooperation with the Japan Institute for Overseas Investment (JOI), with the participation of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).
Opening the business forum, President of Latvia Edgars Rinkēvičs emphasized that Latvia is open for business and cooperation with Japan. “We share common values, and Japan is one of Latvia’s most important partners in the Pacific region. We see great potential for closer cooperation in renewable energy, technology, food, wood processing, and other sectors,” the President said.
The forum aimed to deepen bilateral cooperation in investment and innovation by showcasing Latvia’s potential as a reliable partner in Europe.
JETRO President Kataoka Susumu highlighted: “Latvia stands out with its stable and open economic environment, competitive tax policy, developed digital infrastructure, and highly skilled workforce. We have already supported companies like Printful in entering the Japanese market and see that other Latvian companies are also eager to cooperate with Japan.”
The forum focused on Latvia’s investment potential in sectors such as energy, ICT, bioeconomy, and financial technologies. Discussions also covered Latvian companies’ experiences working with Japanese partners and explored opportunities for joint projects in countries outside the OECD. Cooperation on Ukraine’s reconstruction was also discussed.
Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis noted: “In 2024, Latvian exports to Japan have increased by 17%, demonstrating the potential for deeper cooperation. During this trade mission, we also plan to sign several cooperation agreements in the fields of energy and financial technologies. This proves that our goal—to increase Latvia’s export volume by €50 million and attract at least €30 million in investment—is within reach.”
The cooperation potential was presented by companies such as Marubeni Corporation, Yokohama Rubber, FORTES, Latvenergo, and Latvijas Mobilais Telefons, showcasing Latvia’s expertise in energy and data technology.
In parallel with the forum, which gathered over 90 top-level executives from Japanese companies, several important business meetings were held. These included talks with energy company TEPCO, which has expressed interest in renewable energy projects, as well as meetings with the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, HITACHI Corporation, and the Japan Business Federation Keidanren. The Japanese side emphasized that Latvia’s NATO membership is a key advantage in the current geopolitical context, reducing security risks.
The Latvian business delegation consisted of 36 companies and organizations from sectors such as wood processing, pharmaceuticals, food industry, ICT, and more. Participants included:
LMT, Blockchain Association of Latvia, Latvian IT Cluster, Latvian Fintech Association, JEFF, IDT Media, APPLY, Batwatex, Eunomia Traffic AG, IE.LA Engineers, Olpha, Pharmidea, Baltacon, Latvijas Finieris, Riga Chair Factory, Latvia Packing, LSEZ Laskana, Latvenergo, Fortes, Jelgava Machinery Plant, Amazone, Latvian Electrical and Electronics Industry Association, Rundāle Palace Museum, Estravel Latvia, IMPRO Travel, Baltu Rotas, Goal Event Group, Remark-s, ZAB Eversheds Sutherland Bitāns, AS Superia, LCCI, Latvian Exporters Association “The Red Jackets,” Latgale Planning Region, Rīga Stradiņš University, Voldemārs, Digitālā Pele, PADTEX INSULATION.
The state visit to Japan is organized by the Ministry of Economics and LIAA in close cooperation with the Chancery of the President of Latvia and the Embassy of Latvia in Japan.
The trade mission is part of the Innovation Support Program for SMEs, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund and the state budget of Latvia.
About the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia (LIAA)
The Investment and Development Agency of Latvia promotes the competitiveness of Latvian entrepreneurs, export growth, and investment attraction, as well as develops the tourism sector and implements national branding policy. LIAA serves as a state partner in business development—from idea to international markets. With an extensive network of representations abroad and regional business centers across Latvia, LIAA helps businesses grow and positions Latvia as a secure, innovative, and open country in the global economy.
Photo: Chancery of the President of Latvia
Prepared by:
LIAA International Marketing and Communication Department
Email: prese@liaa.gov.lv
Phone: +371 29725674