Post-Mission Report

The mission began at the Embassy of Canada to Japan, where delegates were welcomed by the Trade Commissioner Service and provincial partners. Attendees gained critical insights into Japan’s life sciences landscape through a presentation by Mr. Minoru Sasaki, Principal Deputy Director at METI (Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry). 

In the afternoon, the delegation visited KING SKYFRONT iCONM (Innovation Center of NanoMedicine) in Kawasaki. Here, we toured cutting-edge laboratories and learned about Japan’s open innovation initiatives driving collaboration in advanced health technologies. 

Delegates exhibited at the Shonan iPark Global Showcase, joining an international lineup that included participants from 11 countries. Canadian innovation was strongly represented, with 26 companies engaging in exploratory discussions with Japanese industry leaders. The showcase also featured tours of Shonan iPark’s facilities, offering a closer look at Japan’s biotech R&D ecosystem. 

In the evening, delegates were invited to a Friends of NRC networking reception hosted at the embassy. This exclusive event brought together Canadian companies, mission partners, and key Japanese stakeholders, providing a relaxed and productive setting to strengthen relationships and explore future collaboration opportunities. 

Canada took center stage at Bio Japan 2025, one of Asia’s premier life sciences conferences. The Canadian pavilion highlighted the best of our nation’s biotech and health tech capabilities. 

A key highlight was the NRC Luncheon Seminar, opened by NRC President Mitch Davies, where nine Canadian companies delivered pitches to an audience of Japanese and international stakeholders. The day concluded with a vibrant welcome reception, setting the stage for three days of meaningful engagement. 

Delegates continued to build global connections at Bio Japan over the final two days of the mission. On Day 4, the Quebec delegation hosted a networking reception at the Canadian pavilion, creating an energetic space for delegates, partners, and international guests to connect and explore collaboration opportunities. 

Later that evening, delegates also attended a partnering reception, further strengthening ties with Japanese and global stakeholders. 

Throughout the week, Canadian companies engaged in one-on-one partnering meetings, networking sessions, and showcase events, forming new relationships and reinforcing Canada’s position as a leader in life sciences innovation.