Islamabad, (TW News) — His Excellency Mr. Akamatsu Shuichi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Pakistan, hosted the “Japan-Pakistan Business Seminar 2026” at a local hotel in Islamabad, bringing together key stakeholders from both countries to advance bilateral economic cooperation.

The seminar was attended by approximately 100 participants, including H.E. Mr. Haroon Akhtar Khan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production, senior Pakistani government officials, representatives from business chambers, academic institutions, and leading Japanese organizations. Among the participants were members of the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Pakistan (JCCIP), the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).

In his keynote remarks, Ambassador Akamatsu underscored the longstanding contribution of Japanese companies—particularly in the automotive sector—to Pakistan’s economic development.

“Japanese automotive companies have created more than 100,000 jobs in Pakistan and established domestic supply chains to localize automotive components. All companies’ localization rate for parts far exceeds 60 percent,” he stated. “They continue to invest in new technologies to advance industrial upgrading and reduce environmental impact. Countries capable of manufacturing automobiles are limited worldwide, and Japan’s contribution to Pakistan’s economy is substantial and will remain so in the future.”

H.E. Mr. Haroon Akhtar Khan, attending as Chief Guest, expressed appreciation for Japan’s sustained economic partnership with Pakistan. He acknowledged Japan’s pivotal role in strengthening Pakistan’s industrial base and voiced optimism for deeper bilateral collaboration in the years ahead.

The seminar featured two thematic sessions.

Session I focused on Japan’s economic transformation and the historical trajectory of Japan-Pakistan business relations. Panelists highlighted Japan’s long-term strategy of prioritizing investment in human capital over short-term profits. Speakers emphasized that sustained investment in education and skills development has been central to Japan’s economic success. The discussion also explored how Pakistan could adapt lessons from Japan’s development model to accelerate its own growth.

Session II centered on the automotive sector, with participation from Japanese automobile manufacturers operating in Pakistan and local auto parts suppliers. Representatives discussed the principles underpinning Japan’s manufacturing excellence, including Kaizen (continuous improvement), 5S workplace organization, and structured employee training systems.

Speakers highlighted Japan’s broader contribution beyond vehicle sales, noting its role in nurturing Pakistan’s automotive vendor industry and strengthening local supply chains. Discussions also addressed future priorities, including the promotion of hybrid vehicles, investment in biogas fuel production to reduce reliance on petrol, and enhanced safety standards in line with global best practices.

The seminar concluded with a shared commitment to deepen industrial collaboration, foster innovation, and expand sustainable business opportunities between Japan and Pakistan.