ATPF Working-Level Meeting in Tokyo

July 2019

In addition to exchanging best practices between TPOs, which has been the initial objective in previous WLMs, this time the WLM was held with the aim of creating joint projects toward further strengthening collaboration between TPOs. In line with this, a special Knowledge Sharing Session was held the day before the WLM for learning about management of value chains, the main theme for the meeting. It enabled member TPOs to share a common understanding regarding the theme and to prepare for better discussions prior to the WLM.

Under the main theme of "value chains," members were divided into the following three groups for a breakout session: "manufacturing and logistics,” "promoting marketing and sales (e-commerce)," and "promoting marketing and sales (promotion)." At each breakout meeting, members worked together to create joint project proposals and reaffirmed the importance of cooperation between TPOs in their realization.

The joint projects will be proposed at the 32nd ATPF CEO Meeting planned for this September, after which those approved will be implemented. At the end of the session, the Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI), which will host the CEO Meeting, presented participants with details about the upcoming meeting.

The day after the WLM, participants took part in the industrial tour. The first place they visited was the Nissan Yokohama Plant, where they saw the engine production line and learned about the history of the Japanese automobile industry.

They next visited the Ota City Industrial Promotion Organization and deepened their understanding of the activities conducted by Ota Ward that have been bolstering the manufacturing industry, such as through its unique network named "Nakama Mawashi," where companies can seek out partners for cooperation in the manufacturing process.

Lastly, they visited the manufacturing facility called "Ota Techno Core." LPS Works, which occupies a part of the facility and uses advanced laser processing technology, introduced its operations to participants and guided them through the plant.

Among the comments JETRO received from participants, particular praise was given as follows: "We have much to learn from the support systems provided by the Japan’s national and local governments, which enable companies, even SMEs, to produce advanced technologies." "I felt anew that the success of SMEs is important in order to sophisticate and vitalize industries."