Norway – Japan:

Creating value together for asustainable futureCopyright & Disclaimer:
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3

Table of Contents

4

1.0 Foreword by the Ambassador		

5

2.0 Report summary		9

3.0 A long-standing partnership

12

4.0 Growing ties based on mutual synergies and common interests		

14

4.1		

Aspirations for a sustainable future			

16

4.1.1

Equinor teams up with JERA and J-POWER with aspirations for offshore wind

20

4.1..

Idemitsu Kosan cutting emissions in offshore operations			

22

4.1.3

Sumisho Metalex and Freyr partner to provide greener batteries

24

4.2		

Win-win alliances in Seafood

26

4.2.1

Processing of Norwegian mackerel revitalises Japanese rural economies

32

4.2.2

Mitsubishi Corporation acquires Cermaq with global salmon aspirations

34

4.2.3

Proximar Seafood helps Japan advance aquaculture ambitions

36

4.3		

Norway and Japan continue to show leadership in the Maritime sector

38

4.3.1

Mitsui ventures into the subsea vessels through its investment in Akastor

42

4.3.2

Toyota and Corvus partner to develop maritime hydrogen fuel cell systems

44

4.3.3

Dualog providing data-driven innovation in the maritime sector

46

4.4		

Innovation providing new opportunities

48

4.4.1

Tomra Japan’s approach to recycling recognised by the METI Minister's award

52

4.4.2

Cognite helps Japanese industry digitalise operations

54

4.4.3

Norwegian EdTech transforming learning56

4.4.4

Digital healthcare to the rescue		

58

4.4.5

Hot Norwegian start-ups to look out for

60

4.5		

A sound future based on research links		

64

4.5.1

Norwegian universities lead participation in KIFEE

70

4.5.2

INTPART programme helps develop new aluminium alloys

72

5.0 A bright future		

74

Appendices		

76

A. Economic indicators Norway-Japan76

B.

References		

78

C. Table of figures

84

5

1.0
Foreword by Ambassador

Trade and business ties have always been at the core of Norway and Japan’sbilateral relations. First developed in the maritime domain already in the Meiji
era, our economies have been complementary and mutually reinforcing, andour industrial exchanges have steadily grown into sophisticated value chainsthat benefit both countries.
A few examples:-- Both Norway and Japan are important shipping nations. We cooperate
closely to develop low-emission technologies for the maritime sector andto establish modern and appropriate regulations for international shipping.
-- Norway’s position as the world’s second largest seafood exporter has
benefitted greatly from the introduction of salmon as a key ingredient insushi and sashimi, which today is appreciated as delicious and healthy food
all over the world.
-- Japanese companies are active in the Norwegian energy sector andhave also invested in several Norwegian technology companies, creating
innovative new products and promoting new ideas in both countries.
Norway and Japan are mountainous countries close to the sea. Our societies
are sophisticated and our peoples highly educated, with a deep affection for
the natural environment. In both countries, the need to protect the livelihoodsof our rural communities has a high priority. We share fundamental values
such as democracy, rule of law and human rights. The numerous royal visits
between Norway and Japan, most recently when Crown Prince Haakon
attended His Majesty the Emperor’s enthronement, speak to the strengthand depth of the bilateral relationship. These personal links are long-lasting,too; King Harald’s participation as an athlete in the sailing competition at theTokyo Olympics in 1964 is still fondly remembered.
Our political leaders often see the world eye to eye, despite the great
geographical distance. We share many multilateral priorities such as the
freedom of trade and navigation and a rules-based trading system. Both
Norway and Japan have set ambitious climate targets and are committed
to achieving the sustainable development goals. Our two countries have6

also engaged in efforts to safeguard the continued health and productivityof the world’s oceans through the High-level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean
Economy, where our two prime ministers, together with 12 other countries,
have resolved to sustainably manage 100 percent of our national waters by
2025.
Norway and Japan share a number of economic priority areas such asenergy, maritime transport, marine resources, innovation and research.
We share a common ambition to transform our economies and adapt oursocieties to a low-emission future in accordance with the Paris Agreement.
We face similar demographic challenges, as our populations grow older andhuman resources become scarcer, and both countries depend on innovation,technological development, renewable energy and strong partnerships toreach our goals.
Today, our bilateral trade is growing. We see more Japanese and Norwegiancompanies joining forces. This report showcases some of these cases andprovides an overview of our extensive bilateral cooperation.
At the same time, there is clearly a great potential for strengthening ourbilateral relationship. The Norwegian government has stated its willingness
to work with the Japanese government to develop our bilateral trade andinvestment relations further through an Economic Partnership Agreement,
to the mutual benefit of both countries. We hope that this report can serve
as inspiration towards that goal.
Inga M. W. Nyhamar
Ambassador of Norway to Japan
7

4

8

2.0
Report Summary

With diplomatic ties stretching back more

could unlock many more opportunities to thethan a century, the relationship between

benefit of both nations and contribute towards

Norway and Japan is diverse and healthy.

achieving the sustainable development goals.

Continued dialogue between the two nations
has led to new opportunities for cooperationand leadership on the world stage throughinitiatives like the High Level Panel for a
Sustainable Ocean Economy.

EnergyThe need to find sustainable energy solutions
drives much of the activity in this sector.
Japan’s

Trade and investment have been at the centre

Basic

HydrogenStrategy

andNorway’s National Hydrogen Strategy willof the relationship. Leveraging the respective

pave the way for new developments in bothstrengths and experiences of each side tocountries. Equinor’s deep water experience

ensure maximum value creation and mutualand offshore wind power credentials are

success is at the heart of relationships.

helping the company to pursue potential

In

are

business with JERA and J-POWER in Japan.

increasingly addressing global issues related

Equinor is also working with Idemitsu Kosanto sustainability, reducing carbon emissions

in the Norwegian Sea to bring renewables

and ageing populations.

to offshore remote oil and gas operations,partnership,

NorwayandJapanmaking the project as a world first to do this.
This report highlights some of the successful

Norway’s battery supply chain is increasingly

examplesresearch

attractive to Japanese companies looking tonations

produce greener batteries and gain accessand outlines potential areas for greater

to the European market. The tie-up between

collaboration. It focuses on sectors where

Sumisho Metalex and FREYR is one example

Norway and Japan have complementaryof this growing interest. Future opportunities

strengths,

long-lie with the development of the hydrogenstanding business ties in the seafood andeconomy, more offshore wind in Japan andofcooperationso

economic
between

it

not

the

only

and
two

coversmaritime sectors, but also includes recent
developments in renewable energy anddigital technologies.
The broad range of partnerships showcased

expansion of the battery supply chain in
Norway.

Seafoodin this report clearly demonstrates that by

The seafood industry is of crucial importanceworking together, Norway and Japan can

to both countries and Japan’s ambitions tobe leaders in technology and innovation andbecome a net exporter of sustainable seafood

contribute to a more sustainable future.

is a key driver for growing activity in thisFurthermore,intergovernmental

sector. Norwegian and Japanese efforts incollaboration between Norway and Japan

this space are complementary in nature andgreater9extend far beyond the well-known growth ofinnovation for the Internet of Things andsalmon consumption. Seafood from Norway

Big Data with Nippon Yusen Kaisha in Japan.

is creating jobs in Japan such as the processing

Further opportunities lie in areas suchofmackerel

Mitsubishi

as growing digitalisation in the maritime

Norwegianindustry, more cooperation with Norwegiancompany Cermaq has enabled the tradingcluster programmes, greater electrification,

house to become a global force in seafood.

and the development of autonomous for

Additionally,

shipping.

Corporation’s

in

rural

Japan.

acquisition

Proximarof

Seafood’s

land-

based aquaculture management experience
matchedwith

Japan’s

manufacturing

prowess will help to shorten the supply chain
and reduce the carbon footprint in salmon
farming. Looking ahead more opportunities
lie with the expansion of aquaculture, further
development of the supply chain and acontinued leadership in the sector to bring

Digital technologies and innovative startups are increasingly becoming critical to theadvancement of society. This is an area where
Norway’s reputable track-record as a leader indigitalisation perfectly complements Japan’s

positive change.

renewed commitment towards a digital

Maritime

Norwegian start-ups, which are forging thesociety. The technologies and solutions of

Norway’s world-leading strengths in themaritime

sectorcoupledwith

Japan’s

global shipping business are generating new
solutions that make operations greener andmore competitive. Norwegian innovation inelectrification, the hydrogen economy, andautonomous systems is helping shipping meet
reduced emission targets. The increasing useof maritime-dedicated communications thatprovide more data in real-time improves
efficiency and further reduces emissions. The
great potential for maritime collaboration
is exemplified by Mitsui’s acquisition of
Akastor to optimise operations for deep
ocean resource exploration, the partnership
between Toyota and Corvus Energy todevelop maritime hydrogen fuel cell systems,
and Dualog’s role in driving technological
10

Digital technologies and Innovation

way for positive change, are helping Japanto achieve Society 5.0 while also tackling
global issues related to sustainability andhealthcare. Examples include TOMRA using
sensor technologies to boost recycling efforts,
Cogniteoptimisingindustrial

operations

using Big Data and artificial intelligence, andNorwegian EdTech companies opening up
new and engaging ways to learn. SoftBank’s
recentinvestment

in

three

promising

Norwegian start-ups is a clear indication of
the strength and relevance of the Norwegianinnovation ecosystem. Further opportunities
lie with EdTech, realising Society 5.0 and thedigitalisation of public services.

Research and Development
Government support and initiatives that

strengthen the ties between Norway andExcellent Education and Research), promote

Japan are helping foster cluster development

robustand closer cooperation between research

discussion on common issues and create new

institutions and industry. This is ensuring

research partnerships. As both countries step

the development and commercialisation ofup efforts in sustainability and digitalisation,

new technologies and generating ideas that

there is room for even greater collaboration

have the potential to shape the future of bothto foster progress and disruptive innovations.

countries.
Additionally,

Furtherthese

programmesareacademic

exchanges,

opportunities

participation

in

EU

lie
and

with

stimulategreater

Norway-funded

contributing to the growth and empowerment

clusters, industry-focused research initiativesof engineers and entrepreneurs that arein marine and material science, renewablepioneering world-class solutions. Initiatives,and clean energy, and maritime engineering

including the research cooperation platform

and continued commitment to the 2003

Kyoto International Forum for Environment

Agreement between the Government ofandNorway and the Government of Japan on

Energy(KIFEE)

government

research

andNorwegianprogrammes

such

as INTPART (International Partnerships for

Cooperation in Science and Technology tofurther develop innovation.

5
11

3.0
A long-standing partnershipThis section outlines the background of thetorelationship between Norway and Japan tosystems. Through the Norwegian sovereign

set the scene for the report.

wealth fund and the Government Pension

Ever since Norwegian ships brought coal to
Japan in the late 19th century and Norwegiandevelopmarinehydrogen

fuel

cell

Fund Global, Norway is a substantial investor
in Japanese fixed income assets, invests
heavily in real estate and has an interest inwhalers started venturing into the South1,499 Japanese companies. The fund’s totalseas, the people of Norway and Japan haveinvestments in Japan, as of 31 December

met each other across the seas that unite the2020, amount to NOK 992.4 billion.1

two nations across the globe.
With a fish and seafood self-sufficiency ratio
Norway and Japan share many similarof 55 percent, Japan relies on imports tocharacteristics. The promotion of universal

supply almost half of its domestic demand.

human

as

Norwegian seafood exporters provide eight

democracy and free speech are shared values.

percent of Japan’s total seafood imports

They both possess national identities as large

and three percent of the total seafood

ocean states and have leading expertise insupply in Japan.2 Among the high-quality

the maritime domain, be it in internationalseafood provided by Norway, some species

shipping or the fisheries sector. Whaling

are particularly prominent: Norway supplies

has also been a part of both nations’ history,

more than half of the mackerel and 21

and Norway and Japan still cooperate in thepercent of the salmon consumed in Japansustainable management of marine mammal

today.3 Norway exports whole fish, and theresources.

processing generally takes place in Japan. This

rightsandfreedoms

suchcreates many jobs in the Japanese seafood
Both countries have diverse and matureprocessing industry, and allows companies

economies. While some countries are linked

like Mitsubishi Corporation, Yokohama Reito

through the production of goods, and others

and Tokai Denpun Company to add value inthrough the supply of natural resources,

Japan.

access to markets, or even as mutual providers

12of services, investments, or technology, theTheintroductionofNorwegiansalmoneconomic relationship between Norway andto Japan in the 1980s was a momentous

Japan is one where all these linkages apply.

culinary event. Indeed, the marriage between

Japanese corporations have invested in the

traditions became a worldwide phenomenon.

extraction of natural resources in Norway,

In 1986, the initiative to promote Norwegianas is the case with Idemitsu Kosan. Others

seafood in Japan was launched, and byhave engaged in the development of new

1992, Nichirei became the first Japanesetechnologies, illustrated by the partnerships

company to sell Norwegian salmon for sushi,

Norwegian seafood and Japanese culinaryintroducing it as a staple in sushi restaurants

ensure that further cooperation is geared

all over Japan. The project succeeded not only

towards solving the pressing matters of today.

in deepening mutual economic ties between
Norway and Japan, but also in springboarding
sushi to international markets. Salmontopped sushi became a favourite choice forCultural exchanges between Norway andJapan are increasing on many fronts - inliterature, art and music. Norwegian culture

consumers all over the world.

gained traction in Japan already in the Meiji

Shipping has been, and remains, a verysuch as Edvard Munch, Edvard Grieg andimportantrelations.

Henrik Ibsen. In design and architecture, theCompanies such as Kongsberg Maritime,international Japonisme movement of the

DNV GL and Wilhelmsen all cooperate closely

late 19th century started a tradition of mutualwith Japanese partners in the maritime

inspiration that developed into a shared

sector. Norway and Japan are in fact among

affinity for clean lines, natural light and thethe largest maritime nations in the world,

sophisticated use of wood and other natural

with Japan ranking second and Norway fifth.

materials, characteristic both of modern

sectorinbilateral

era, through the work of renowned artists

4

Japanese and Scandinavian design.
Digitalisation and the use of innovativetechnologies have become important fields

Today, the presence in Tokyo of Fuglen coffee

of cooperation. The number of examples isshops, the Norwegian Icons design store andgrowing: SoftBank’s Vision Fund has invested

Norwegian Rain fashion store are examples

in Norwegian technology companies suchof the interest in Japan for the contemporaryas Kahoot!, Oda and AutoStore, and an

Norwegian art and design scene. Fuglen’s

increasing number of Norwegian start-ups

iconic Norwegian design furniture from theand innovative technology companies build

1960s clearly appeals to a younger Japanese

their businesses in Japan.

generation, just as young Norwegians are

The bilateral Cooperation in Science andthrough manga and anime. These features

Technology agreement from 2003 has helped

deepen the friendship between Norwegians

strengthen the triangle between research,and Japanese and create new markets ininnovation and business. All topics included

both countries for their respective creativein the agreement are well reflected in Japan

industries.5

and Norway’s trade and business relations:energy and the environment, space and polar
research, marine research, nanotechnology
and new materials, as well as healthcare
and welfare technology. The regular Joint
Committee meetings under the agreement

drawn to the Japanese language and literatureWith such a long and prosperous historyofkinship

andmutualinspiration,

thefoundations are all set for the further
broadening and deepening of the JapanNorway bilateral economic relationship.
13

4.0
Growing ties based on mutualsynergies and common interests
This section outlines examples of initiatives,

economic ties in the seafood and maritime

partnerships, and potential opportunities inindustries are long-standing, new bonds aresectors where there are matching strengths.

being formed in other areas such as energy
and digitalisation.

Successful partnerships come from dialogue
to understand each side’s views and to findcommon ground. Both Norway and Japan
have put significant effort into making theconditions right to bring the two nations
together, so that government, business,
and academia can meet to nurture oldrelationships and develop new ones.

alliances

are

where

based
all

on

parties

synergisticuse

examplesofNorwegian-Japanese

partnerships that outlined in this section
showcase the broad nature of the relationshipto give the reader a view of the situationin general. Given the limitations of thisreport, it is not possible to mention all thepartnerships. To this end, the case studies
cited were chosen by a diverse group of

As outlined in this section, the most powerfulcollaborations

The

their

stakeholders as representative and relevant
examples to demonstrate the rich nature of
the relationship between Norway and Japan.

respective strengths and experience. Whilst

6

14

7

15

4.1

Aspirations
for sustainable
futureThis subsection explores the energy sector and how
renewable energy, hydrogen, and the battery supply chain
are paving the way for more sustainable solutions.

816

Potential opportunities for consideration:

Hydrogen
Norway’shydrogen

value

chain

is

producingcleanhydrogen for power generation. The Research Council of
Norway is committed to supporting business and academic
partnerships with Japanese organisations to develop
solutions for the hydrogen economy.

Offshore wind
Norway’s expertise in deep sea operations is already being
applied to renewable energy and can be valuable for Japanto harness offshore wind energy and reach net zero carbon
emissions by 2050. There is scope for greater development
and cooperation.

Battery supply chain
Hydroelectric power is energising the development of
Norway’s battery supply chain to produce greener lithiumion batteries. Japanese companies can further develop
battery technologies by working with Norwegian partners
to take advantage of local production and gain greater
access to the European market.

17

Aspirations for
Sustainable Future

Japan’s recent declaration by Prime Minister

2021. The investment decision in the first

Suga for the country to be carbon net zero by

full-scale carbon capture and storage (CCS)

2050 is a bold move. It will drive innovation asdemonstration project was agreed in thethe private sector develops new technologies

Norwegian Parliament in December 2020.

forProjectJapantoachieve

thisambitious

will

capturecarbontarget. As Japan seeks to decarbonise its

dioxide from Norcem’s concrete production

economy,factory, transport it and store it on theinternational

partners

havevaluable experience to fast-track progress.
Geographical similarities between Norway
and Japan and shared expertise in maritimeand energy make both nations naturalcontinental shelf.8
Norwegiancompanies

areincreasingly

engaged in the hydrogen value chain. Equinor

partners.

replaces natural gas with hydrogen for use in

The open system for industrial innovation

the maritime sector. ZEG Power is developing

clusters has enabled Norway to become aefficient and clean hydrogen production

test bed for innovation within the energy

processes that integrate CCS, and generating

sector and an entry point to Europe forelectricity

foreign companies to participate in clusters

Reinertsen is simplifying the production

such as NCE Maritime CleanTech and Oceanof very pure hydrogen using palladium

Hyway Cluster (OHC).

membranes.

OHC was set up to develop the hydrogen

As outlined in Figure 9, worldwide demand

economy and realise the maritime use offor hydrogen is expected to reach 972

hydrogen. It allows companies from Norway

million tonnes of oil equivalent by 2050.

and abroad to come together in partnerships

Norway’s Hydrogen Road Map is designed toto drive innovation in the energy sector. OHC

ensure that the country can play a key role

members include Toshiba Energy Systems

in developing technologies and commercial

and Solutions (Toshiba ESS) and Yanmar.

solutions that help keep up with the rapid

Toshibaincrease in demand for hydrogen.

power plants and supplies liquid hydrogen to

ESS

joinedOHC

tocontributetowards building a next-generation hydrogensociety in which renewable energy is used to
produce hydrogen without producing carbon
dioxide. The Toshiba Fuel Cell Ship is an
618“Longship”

usinghydrogen-based

fuels.

The Norwegian government is also supporting
business partnerships with the private sector
in Japan. Government agencies such as The

example of progress to date.7

Research Council of Norway, together with

Norway launched its national hydrogen

efforts to connect with Japanese programmes

strategy in June 2020 paving the way forfocused on the development of liquified

a Hydrogen Road Map to be published inhydrogen and ammonia for alternative energy

the Embassy of Norway in Tokyo, have made

carriers. Furthermore, Norway has been

opening a local office in Tokyo and partnering

actively participating in Japan’s Hydrogenwith Japanese companies to pursue offshore

Energy Ministerial Meetings (HEMM) heldwind farm projects.

in Tokyo since 2018 and remains committed

The Japan Business Federation, highlights

to working with Japan in the development ofthat “Society 5.0 with Carbon Neutral cannot

viable hydrogen technologies.
Renewableenergyisanotherbe realised without generating innovation. Asofinternational competition with respect to green

innovation within the energy sector wherearea

growth becomes more intense, the generation

Norway has expertise. With its maritimeof innovation is a vitally important issue forcompetence and experience in deep water

strengthening Japan’s competitiveness goingenvironments, Norwegian companies areforward.”9 Norway’s credentials in the energy

developing technologies for offshore wind

sector make it a natural partner for Japangeneration. This is well suited to Japan with its

to work on energy-related issues associatedlong coastline and limited continental shelf.

with Society 5.0.

A key player in this area is Equinor, which
has demonstrated commitment to Japan by

Figure 9: Growth in demand for Hydrogen worldwide

1000(Mtoe)

800
600
400
200
0
2015

2020

2025

2030

2035

2040

2045

2050

Year
Transport

Stationary H2 GE CHP

Stationary direct use

Power generation

194.1.1Equinor teams up with JERA and J-POWER
with aspirations for offshore windThis case study shows the potential forannounced at the end of the year.

offshore wind in Japan and how NorwegianThis has created a strong partnership for

know-how can contribute.

Equinor. JERA operates across the whole enThe Japanese government’s announcement

ergy value chain, focusing on liquified natural

to commit to carbon net zero by 2050 isgas (LNG) and wind power, with experience

further evidence of a strong commitment toin an offshore wind power project in Taiwan.

a greener future, in which renewable energy

The electric power utility company J-POWER

will play an increasingly important role.

is the second largest wind power producer inWith improvements in technology, offshore

Japan. J-POWER has been operating onshore

wind

attractive

wind power projects in Akita for several years

proposition in Japan due to its long coastline

and was awarded the Kitakyushu Hibikinada

and

power

is

mountainous

becoming
interior.

an

Allocationof

NOK 690 million to support development ofoffshore wind farm technologies for the 2021
fiscal year by the Ministry of Economy andTrade and Industry (METI) will help speed upchange.10

inoffshore

projects

includingfloating wind farms, which are well suited
to the deep territorial waters surrounding
Japan. With the opening of its office in Tokyoin 2018, Equinor committed to formingstrong partnerships in Japan and helping thecountry develop more renewable energy.
Equinor has teamed up with JERA and
J-POWER to potentially develop offshore
wind farms in Akita Prefecture. The Japanese
government is holding its first offshore windauction calling for bids for two projects in thecities Yurihonjo and Noshiro, producing 700
megawatts and 400 megawatts respectively,
to start operations in 2025. The auction willclose in May 2021 and the winning bid will be20

in 2017.11
This example demonstrates how leading
Norwegian and Japanese companies cancome together to develop Japan’s untapped
offshore wind power sector. The Japan Wind

Equinor has over 40 years of experience
working

220 megawatts offshore wind power projectPower Association is expecting offshore wind
generation to be 10 gigawatts by 2030 and 30- 45 gigawatts by 2040.12 Whilst the partnership between Equinor, JERA and J-POWER
can potentially contribute to this expansion,other partnerships between Norway and Japan will no doubt emerge too.

10

"Japan has a high potential to develop a market for offshore wind.
The opportunities long-term, are within both bottom fixed and floating offshore wind as waters in Japan are on average deeper than inother parts of the world.
With Equinor being the leading floating offshore wind developer,
we have the competence and technical skill needed and are readyto contribute long term to the country’s ambitious offshore windplans."13Jens Økland
Senior Vice President of Equinor
21

4.1.2

Idemitsu Kosan cutting emissions in offshore
operations

This case study illustrates a world first:

to construct a floating offshore wind farms,

offshore wind providing renewable energy

called “Hywind Tampen”, nearby the Snorre

to oil and gas operations.

and Gullfaks fields. The wind farm will use
Equinor’s floating wind turbines applying the

The Kyoto Protocol in 1997 and the Paris“Hywind” concept and become a world first

Agreement in 2015 have put the spotlight on

to directly connect wind farms to oil and gas

and the necessity to curb carbon emissions.

platforms. The Norwegian government is

Idemitsu Kosan has teamed up with Equinor

helping to fund the development, illustrating

to do its part by using renewable energy intheir confidence in the alliance.

its Snorre and Gullfaks field operations in the
Norwegian North Sea.

"Hywind Tampen is a new chapter in Norway’s

Idemitsu Kosan has been active in the oilfrom the Norwegian authorities, we’re not

and gas sector in Norway since 1989 andonly building Norway’s first offshore wind

has received approval by the government

project; we’re refining floating offshore

to extend the life of the Snorre field, 200

wind technology along with the Norwegiannarrative as an energy nation. With support

kilometres northwest of Bergen, to 2040

supplier industry." 15

and beyond. With developments in offshore

Eldar Sætre

wind power technology, the company saw an

Former President and CEO of Equinor

opportunity to make its operations greener
during the extension.

Operations are planned to begin in 2022 and"Equinor is a global leader in terms of green

will generate 88 megawatts from 11 floating

initiatives such as floating offshore wind

wind turbines. The project will cut 200,000

farms and CCS as well as E and P Business,tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year

and, has a good reputation for collaboratingand 35 percent of the power needed forwith international companies for multilateral

operations will be generated by renewablebusiness."

energy.16

14

Hiroshi Arikawa
Idemitsu Kosan’s
Resource Planning Division
Idemitsu

22

Kosan’s

subsidiary

Idemitsu

This exciting development in pushing theboundaries for offshore wind shows how
Norwegian and Japanese companies canpartner to develop world-class solutions
tocutemissions

and

make

operations

Petroleum Norge AS, together with themore sustainable. The leadership shown by

joint venture, submitted a development

Idemitsu Kosan and Equinor should provide

plan to the Norwegian government in 2019inspiration for others to make similar moves.

Figure 11: Power from floating offshore wind by Idemitsu

23

4.1.3

Sumisho Metalex and FREYR partner toprovide greener batteriesThis case study shows how Norway’s"The European battery industry is growing

battery supply chain is developing andrapidly, and SMX is in a position to support

becoming increasingly attractive to Japanese

FREYR to contribute to a carbon neutralcompanies.
Increasing demand for electric vehicles (EV)

Yoshimitsu Matsuda

in Europe is seeing robust growth every year

President of Sumisho Metalex

with annual growth expected to reach 12-15
percent in 2022.19 To keep up with demand,
Europe will need to develop its battery
production capacity from 44 gigawatt hours
in 2020 to 170 gigawatt hours by 2025 and443 gigawatt hours by 2030.20"FREYR strongly believes a collaboration
with Japanese companies for production ofbatteries in Norway utilising Norway’s cheap,
carbon dioxide-free electricity with very
high skilled workers, as in Japan, is likely toresult in the lowest carbon dioxide-footprintThe

Norwegiangovernment

has

been

actively supporting the growth of the wholebattery supply chain and encouraging foreigncompanies to fill any gaps in the value chain,in cooperation with Norwegian companies.
In 2020, Sumisho Metalex (SMX) signed along-term supply chain partnership withFREYR and has plans to invest in the company. FREYR was established in 2018 to solely
use renewable energy to manufacture lowcost, high-energy density lithium-ion batter-batteries with the best price and quality.

ies. Its factory in Mo i Rana will begin produc-

Therefore, FREYR is actively searching for

SMX has built a strong relationship withpartners in Japan for business in Norway as
a gateway to the European market." 18

substantial

tions including battery materials and manalso help to ensure the success of FREYR by

Director of FREYR Japan

sharing market insights and qualifying Asianwith abundant green energy for production
the

FREYR, offering comprehensive battery solu-

Rune Nordgaard

location for the battery industry in Europe
andtion in 2022.

ufacturing equipment since 2019. SMX will

Norway is well placed to be a leading

24

society." 17

Norwegianamounts

industryof

producingaluminium

battery cell technology partners.
Developments in the battery value chain in
general continue with activity seen from other players. Panasonic signed a Memorandum

andof Understanding with Equinor and Hydro insilicon, in addition to refining nickel, cobalt,

November 2020 to assess opportunities ingraphite and copper – all important materials

the European battery industry.21 The strate-in battery production.

gic partnership aims to give the partners a

Figure 12: Top-view of FREYR battery factory in Kamstålbygget

sustainable and competitive position in theand an efficient supply chain.

European battery industry.
These examples show how Japanese compaOther innovative lithium-ion battery produc-nies with innovative battery technologies caners include Beyonder and Morrow Batteries.

partner with Norway to gain access to low-

Beyonder focuses on reducing the environ-cost green production and greater access tomental footprint by producing batteries with

the European market. The door is now open

clean energy and carbon neutral materials.

for more Japanese battery players to come to

Their batteries are manufactured using bio-

Norway.

22

fuels like sawdust instead of fossil fuels.
Morrow Batteries has grand plans to set up
a giga-scale factory by 2024.23 The company
aims to build a cost-competitive manufacturing system based on low energy prices, vertical integration, scale, operational excellence,
25

4.2

Win-winalliances in seafood
This section outlines trends in the seafood sector, including
new practices in aquaculture, and demonstrates how
partnerships are helping Japan to become a net exporter.

26

Potential opportunities for consideration:

Aquaculture
Norwegian expertise in sustainable fisheries management
and financial resources can benefit Japan when fasttracking greater uptake of land-based systems for increased
seafood production and the development of highly skilledjobs.

Further supply chain development
Norwegian companies can be of interest to Japan to further
develop its seafood supply chain. Other opportunities
lie with shortening the supply chain with Norwegiancompanies producing in Japan, reducing transportation
distances, and enabling the multiplier effect.

Greater leadership in the seafood
sector13

Norway and Japan are already defining the direction
for

the

seafoodindustrybyleading

multinational

government initiatives such as the High Level Panel fora Sustainable Ocean Economy (Ocean Panel). There is
scope for further cooperation.

27

Win-win alliancesin seafood

Seafood demand around the world has

The mackerel from Norway is also playing

significantly increased over the past 50 years.

an

It is expected to increase by 20 percent in theeconomies where it is now being processed

next ten years because of population growth,in communities in the prefectures of Chiba,

expansion of the middle class, and greater

Fukui and Tottori. This value-added activity

urbanisation. Both Norway and Japan are

has helped to create many jobs in rural areas

well placed to capitalise on the opportunity

as pointed out by Kin Kamakura, a member

given their deep-rooted history with theof the town council of the coastal city Choshi

production of seafood and innovation in
relevant adjacent sectors, such as maritimeand digital.

role

in

revitalisingrural

in Chiba Prefecture.26 The creation of jobs
is not limited to mackerel. For example, theNorwegian salmon farming company Mowi

Figure 14 illustrates the growing importanceof aquaculture, greater adoption of whichis reflected in Japan. The country is now
set on becoming a net exporter of seafood
and has already made moves to achieve thisby investing in aquaculture projects andimproved fisheries management.
The Norway-Japan partnership in seafood
has resulted in many successful initiatives
in the past. The relationship has deep rootsin the introduction of Norwegian salmon to
Japan due to the success of this partnershipand salmon’s existing worldwide popularity

has three factories in Japan, employing
over 200 people, processing the salmon
airfreighted from Norway.
Sustainability in sourcing and production
is gaining momentum and providing newopportunities to work together. An importantarea of focus for the Norwegian Instituteof Marine Research is how resources suchas feed and energy can be recycled tocreate a circular economy.27 Urchinomics, asustainable sea urchin harvesting company,
is a recent example of a Norway-Japan
partnership that is helping to address global

as a topping for sushi.

environmental issues while creating circular

In recent years, Japanese consumers haveJapan, Norway, and the United States. The

grown to love Norwegian mackerel given its

rehoming of sea urchins improves the healthhigh quality, high fat content and rich flavour.

of seaweed in the oceans, creates additional

Exports to Japan increased by 21 percent

jobs for coastal workers and brings about new

from 2019 to 2020 with 60,000 tonnes of theeconomic value by selling fattened urchins tofish, worth over NOK 1 billion, being exported

restaurants.28

to Japan in 2020.

28

important24

economic

value

in

multipleterritories:

Norwegian mackerel

now represents 88 percent of the JapaneseWith a vibrant start-up ecosystem andAtlantic mackerel market, as outlined ingovernment initiatives driving innovation

Figure 15.25

in the seafood sector, Norway is a pioneer

250

MILLION TONNES (LIVE WEIGHT EQUIVELENT)

200

150

100

50

0
1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

Capture fisheries

2010

2015

2020

2025

2030

Aquaculture

Figure 14: World capture fisheries and aquaculture production, 1980-2030

R KOREACHINA

VIETNAMICELANDNORWAYU KINGIRELANDGERMANY

FAROE ISLANDSGREENLD

Figure 15: Sources of frozen whole mackerel imported to Japan in 202029

in modernising the industry using advanced

Norway and Japan are harnessing their broad

technologies such as artificial intelligenceexperience in the seafood market whileand Internet of Things systems to transform

also embracing change to develop new andpractices and improve efficiency, profitability

sustainable opportunities to work together,and environmental sustainability. Companies

maintain a competitive edge and continue tolikebe leaders in the sector.

Aker

BioMarine,

Bioceanor

andDynaspace have been contributing to thiswith their business models that support acircular economy and innovation. Dynaspaceis contributing to aquaculture by providing
satellite imagery of operations to empower
farmers to gain access to the resources theyneed to ensure sustainable production.29

16

30

17

31

4.2.1

Processing of Norwegian mackerel revitalises
Japanese rural economies

This case study shows how matching high-Edono Seafood, which produces at least fivequality Norwegian mackerel with skilledvarieties of the product for the Japanese

jobs in Japanese fishing communities canmarket and has become a household brand.34

benefit both countries.

Choboshi is a company in Choshi that is

In October 2020, the Suga Cabinet outlined

paving the way in processing boneless fish
products.35 Since the deboning process mustthat “creating vibrant communities” is one of

be done by hand, a large number of workers

the eight policies of highest importance.3031

are required to meet the rising demands

Japan’s agricultural exports and job creationof Norwegian mackerel, creating buoyant

in the sector is key to boosting the Japanesedemand for local workers.36

economy through the revitalisation of local
economies.32 Export targets of 400 billion

Today,

NOK by 2030 were set to promote a national

employees across 73 companies that work

effort to reform Japan’s agriculture, forestry
and fisheries, and deliver the industry’s

areapproximately

2,000

in seafood processing factories in Choshi.37
About half of those employees work daily to

products to the world.

process Norwegian mackerel.

Seafood factories that process Norwegian

The relationship has had other positive

mackerel in the Japanese town Choshi are
helping to play their part in revitalising therural economy. Norwegian mackerel imports
go back to the 1980s and, due to its longstanding relationship with Norway, Choshi
was well placed to move up the value chain

benefits according to Choshi town council
member Kin Kamakura, as it has also
improved the image of the town. As a result,
Choshi has begun to establish itself as a key
export town in recent years, even naming
itself as a “window to Asia”, according to Mr.

to process the mackerel.

Kamakura.38

The collaboration begins when NorwegianThis demonstrates how the two nations,mackerel, which is usually imported frozen,

which are well known for their strong seafood

enters the Japanese value chain in Choshi.
Noteworthy companies involved in the supply
chain are Brødrene Sperre, one of Norway’s
largest producers of wild-caught fish, andVikomar, a Norwegian leader in producing
pelagic fish that has been freezing mackerel
for the Japanese market since 1990.33
Once the mackerel arrives in Choshi, it is
meticulously processed by companies like
32

there

sectors, can draw on respective strengths tocreate win-win partnerships that have benefits for both nations and strengthen thewhole supply chain. The use of high-quality
Norwegian mackerel matched with Japan’s
manufacturingclass products.

prowess

producesworld-

18"The synergy between Norway’s high-quality
fish and industry know-how with Japanese
world-class processing factories will continue
to benefit both countries."
Kin Kamakura
Choshi Town Council
33

4.2.2

Mitsubishi Corporation acquires Cermaq with
global salmon aspirations

This case study shows how matching thethird largest salmon farming company withexperience and resources of a Japanese

operations in Norway, Canada and Chile.42

tradingcompanywithasuccessful

Norwegian salmon fish farming company
has led to a global leader in the seafoodindustry.

This bold move has allowed Cermaq to become a global leader in the seafood business,developing a safe and sustainable food supply
for both Norway and Japan.43 It was able to

As part of Japan’s measures to strengthen
the seafood industry, the government revised
the Fisheries Act in 2018 to encourage moreprivate companies to enter the sector.41
Prior to this, companies had already been
seeking new opportunities as demonstrated
by the acquisition of Cermaq by Mitsubishi
Corporation in 2014.

combine synergies from Mitsubishi Corporation’s experience as a trading company inthe food sector with Cermaq’s expertise inaquaculture to expand sales globally, reaching its highest sales volume of 184,000 metrictonnes in 2019.44"Salmon farming has significant growthpotential as it presents a sustainable
alternative for fulfilling growing demand for"Mitsubishi Corporation is an internationallysafe, healthy and tasty seafood around theleading and highly respected diversified

world, particularly in Asia where markets arebusiness group with a strong financial basis,

rapidly expanding." 39

offering considerable synergies within theseafood sector, and sharing many of the

Ken Kobayashi

important values of Cermaq, including

Chairman and former President

corporate social responsibility, commitment toand CEO Mitsubishi Corporation

sustainability and a long-term perspective." 40
Rebekka Glasser Herlofsen
Former Vice Chairman of theBoard of Directors Cermaq

be achieved when two successful companies
come together with a joint vision. In tacklingissues of food security and sustainability,
more partnerships between Norway and Ja-

A key part of Mitsubishi Corporation’s “Newpan will emerge as the two nations continue

Strategic Direction” in 2013 was to provide ato show leadership in the industry.

stable supply of food products to consumers
and to expand the company’s earnings baseby strengthening the supply chain. To help
achieve this, Mitsubishi Corporation paid
NOK 8.9 billion for 100 percent of the sharesof Cermaq to gain access to the world’s
34

This acquisition illustrates how synergies can

19

35

4.2.3

Proximar Seafood helps Japan advanceaquaculture ambitions

bringingof Mt. Fuji, will produce 5,300 metric tonnes

Norway’s long experience in aquacultureof salmon in phase 1, and has ambitious plans

and adoption of new sustainable methods

to increase production four-fold by 2024.50

can help revolutionise the industry in Japan.

The plant will initially hire around 30 Japa-

This

case

study

shows

how

The United Nations Food and Agriculture
Organisation (FAO) highlighted aquaculture
as the fastest growing food production sector,
with an average 5.8 percent annual growthrate.45 In 2018, aquaculture accounted for46 percent of total production of global fish,
valuing it at 2.1 trillion NOK.46 This sector
can not only help meet global demand
for seafood, but also provide sustainable
solutions as climate change becomes apressing global issue.47

edge and fulfil aspirations to become anet exporter of seafood, it is increasingly
looking to pursue domestic development ofaquaculture to play its role.
thisgrowing

ise the operation. The Norwegian staff will
be key in ensuring that knowledge and management knowhow are passed on to the local
labour force to ensure a complete transfer oftechnology and assure the future success ofthe operation. The project will also develop
the local supply chain as Proximar will buy
feed sourced from Fukuoka and put in place
the logistics to deliver fresh Atlantic salmon
supermarkets.
In 2021, Proximar commissioned Daiwa
House as its contractor to build the plant andthe “ground-breaking ceremony” took placein April 2021.51 Mr. Nielsen recognises theopportunity,

Joachim Nielsen and his company Proximar
Seafood are bringing the concept of therecirculating aquaculture system (RAS) to
Japan. RAS significantly improves fish healthand safety and has the smallest environmental
footprint in the food production industry.48
Plans are well advanced, and the goal is
to combine Norway’s long experience inaquaculture management and expertise withmodern technology to provide the Japanesemarket with fresh Atlantic salmon within aday.49The project, which will be located at the foot36

from Proximar, with the intent to fully local-

harvested the same day to restaurants andAs Japan looks to maintain its competitive

Recognisingnese staff overseen by a few key personnel

long-standing collaboration between the twocountries paired with the strong support hehas received from Japanese people, multipliers like JETRO and the Embassy of the Kingdom of Norway. Given this, he is convinced
about the potential of building a big player,
not just for the Japanese market, but also forniche markets in Asia.52
This example demonstrates how expertisein Norwegian fisheries management andthe use of recent advances in aquaculture
technology matched with Japan’s deep-rooted skillset in seafood is helping to fast-trackprogress in this sector.

20"Japan’s world-class quality control and high hygienic
standards in food processing as well as Japan’s strong
manufacturing culture are crucial elements for successin the food industry. A shorter supply chain will also help
to reduce the carbon footprint." 53
Joachim Nielsen
Founder and Managing
Director Proximar Seafood

37

4.3

Norway and Japan
continue to show
leadership in themaritime sector
This

subsection

focusesontrendswithinthemaritime sector for both Norway and Japan, including
decarbonisation through new fuels and how digitalisationis helping to provide better-optimised operations.

21

38

Potential opportunities for consideration:

Greater digitalisation
Norwegian tech companies in maritime are developing
new solutions using artificial intelligence, Internet of Things
and Big Data. These can be tested and developed further
by Japanese shipowners who lead the world in shipping
innovation.

Cooperation with clusters
The Norwegian cluster programme was set up for domestic
and foreign companies to collaborate and drive innovation.
Several clusters focus on maritime hydrogen. Some
Japanese companies are already taking advantage of this todevelop energy solutions.

Greater Electrification
As Norway forges forward in electrifying shipping, there areopportunities for cooperation with Japanese companies todevelop battery technology systems.

Development of autonomous
Help with the transition to autonomous of maritime coastal
vessels.

39

Norway and Japan continue
show leadership in maritime
sectorNorway and Japan are both seafaring nations

to maritime engineering, to enhance theand share a rich maritime history. Moreover,capabilities of young engineers in this field

the maritime sector is one of Norway’s

and promote development on a global scale.55

most global, innovative and forward-looking
industries. The Norwegian maritime sector
is embracing new challenges related tosustainability and is viewed as a leader in thefield.54

in helping the sector develop and maintainits edge. Investment has been substantial
over the years through initiatives such as the
MAROFF programme.

Long-standing governmental support sincethe 1960s has been a key element of success inExternal factors are further driving change

the maritime partnerships between Norway

and innovation. In April 2018, the International

and Japan. One of the major events in the

Maritime Organisation (IMO) laid out a

Norway-Japan maritime relationship was thestrategy to reduce total annual greenhouseformation of Knutsen NYK Offshore Tankers

gas (GHG) emissions from international(KNOT) in 2010, a joint venture between TS

shipping by at least 50 percent by 2050.56

Shipping Invest (TSSI) and Nippon Yusen

Figure 22 shows the positive trajectory in

Kaisha (NYK).

reducing emissions based on this strategy.

A Memorandum of Understanding signed

Both Norway and Japan are committed toin 2011 reaffirmed the partnership between

helping to achieve this ambitious goal. As

the two nations. The Norwegian Ministry ofpart of its Strategic Energy Plan published in

Trade, Industry and Fisheries and the Japanese

July 2018, Japan set a goal to lead the world in

Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transportenergy transitions and decarbonisation in the

and Tourism agreed to cooperate in the field

maritime sector by sharing its superior low-of maritime technology and industry. Areas

carbon and decarbonisation technologies.57

of focus include offshore wind power, theIn

Arctic, LNG-fuelled ships, ship recycling andpresented its action plan for green shipping.58

the promotion of environmentally friendly

The ambition is to reduce emissions fromand energy efficient maritime technologies.

domestic shipping and fisheries by half by

Furthermore,

in

2017

The

NipponFoundation and the Norwegian Universityof Science and Technology (NTNU) signeda40

Government support in Norway has been key

Memorandumof

Understanding

that

2019,

the

Norwegiangovernment

2030 and promote the development of lowand zero-emission solutions for all vessel
categories.
The

developmentofzero-emission

focuses on natural resources and maritime

technologies, electrification as well as theenergy. The agreement involves the sharing

use of hydrogen and ammonia for fuels areofareas of key focus in Norway. Activities toinformation

andknowledge

relatedpromote greater electrification have included

Furthermore, Norway is developing thethe development of shore power in ports andworld’s first autonomous and zero-emission

new battery-related technologies such as

container vessel due for commercialisation byelectric ferries.

2022. The fertiliser producer Yara, Kongsberg

Digitalisation

andautonomous

solutionswill help rationalise operations and cut
emissions from shipping. Norway’s mostinnovative maritime businesses are alreadypartnering with Japanese companies todevelop maritime-specific digital solutions.

MaritimeandMassterly

haveworkedtogether to develop the vessel called Yara
Birkeland, which will replace 40,000 truck
journeys a year.59 The ship is currently being
tested and prepared for fully autonomous
operations in domestic waters.60

One example is the collaboration between

With the global focus on zero carbon

NYK and Dualog. NYK has been working withemissions,

Dualog to improve connectivity of vessels andrelationship and track record for collaboration

greater use of Internet of Things for better

will support existing and new partnerships tomanagement of its fleet.

innovate the industry.

NorwayandJapan’sclose

Figure 22: Greenhouse gas emissions driving innovation

3000

CO2 [mill tonnes]

2500
2000
1500
1000
500
0

2010

2015

2020

2025

2030

2035

2040

2045

2050

Business-as-usual emission scenario
Emissions gap to fill using innovative measure, fueld and technologies

414.3.1

Mitsui ventures into the subsea vessels throughits investment in Akastor

This case study demonstrates how Mitsui

As one the world’s leading ship owners, MOL

has teamed up with Akastor to gain accessbrings 130 years of experience in operation

to deep-sea exploration resources.

and management of ships. A priority areaof activity is optimising shipping routes to

Although Japan has large potential reserves ofdeep-sea minerals, technological limitations
and marine regulations currently keep themout of reach. Gaining access to exploration
operations in the search for ocean bed
minerals overseas was the prime motivation
for Mitsui’s recent alliance with Akastor.
Mitsui & Co. and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL)bought a 50 percent stake in Akastor’s AKOFS
Offshore subsea vessel assets to gain accessto its expertise in the oil and gas industry.
"We are pleased to announce this partnershipwith Mitsui and are excited about additional
joint business opportunities currently being
explored.

Given MOL’s track record in developing
environmentally friendly technologies, thecompany also plans to take an active role
in research and development. Technologies
that reduce carbon dioxide emissions such as
offshore wind power generation and batterypowered ships is of particular interest.
Notably, the development of their Propeller
Boss Cap Fins (PBCF) saves energy andreduces underwater noise pollution.
This partnership shows how Norway andJapan can work together to share expertiseand create new opportunities in the maritime
sector, helping operations become more

This transaction will increase Akastor’s
financial flexibility, while laying the
groundwork for longer term value creation
together with Mitsui." 61
Kristian Røkke
Chairman of the Board of Akastor
AKOFS Offshore has a fleet of three subsea
support vessels for the construction andmaintenance of petroleum and gas fields in
Norway and Brazil.
The partnership is founded on sharing
expertise. Mitsui has brought 50 years ofocean cable laying experience to the alliance.
42

reduce fuel consumption.

sustainable and competitive.

Figure 23: AkerSolutions

Figure 24: Mitsui-Akastor

43

4.3.2

Toyota and Corvus partner to develop maritimehydrogen fuel cell systems

This

case

study

shows

how

Toyota’s

crucial for accelerating the transition to a ze-

manufacturing expertise, matched withro-emissions future.67 Plans are to develop a

Corvus’ maritime credentials, will generate

prototype maritime fuel cell system onboard

fuel cell systems for maritime applications.

a vessel by 2023 and a commercial mari-

To help realise zero emissions in shipping,Toyota and Corvus signed a Memorandumof Understanding in December 2020 todeveloplarge-scale

maritime-certifiedhydrogen fuel cell systems.64 Productionof these systems will be located in Bergen,time-certified product available from 2024.68"Toyota is the best partner for us to make thisa success." 62Geir BjøkeliCEO of Corvus Energy

and Corvus will work closely with Toyota’s

This partnership shows how Norway and Ja-

recently established Fuel Cell Business Grouppan can work together by sharing expertisein Brussels. The Norwegian government isand knowledge to develop maritime fuel cells

financially supporting the project with a NOK

and systems for zero-emissions ships. Ad-

54 million grant to ensure its success.65

vances in fuel cell technologies in this area
will open the door for new alliances to pro-"Decarbonisation is an inevitable future, andat Toyota we are convinced that hydrogen willplay a central role in creating a better futureboth environmentally and economically." 63Thiebault Paquet
Director of Toyota Motor
Europe’s Fuel Cell BusinessCorvusEnergyisaNorwegianleading

supplier of energy storage solutions in themaritime industry. It is also a member of
Norway’s maritime cluster NCE Maritime
CleanTech and is well positioned to becomea key industry player and contribute to thelong-term success of the project.66
Toyota will work closely with Corvus to address issues of scaling production and making this technology affordable globally. This is44

mote a more sustainable maritime industry.

Figure 25: Fuel-cell systems for ships by Corvus

Figure 26: Fuel-cell systems by Toyota
45

4.3.3

Dualog providing data-driven innovationin the maritime sector

This case study shows how NYK is working"In Japan, shipping companies are leadingwith Dualog to adopt maritime-dedicated

new technology implementation and seeking

digital technologies to continue to be a

cutting-edge technology providers globally." 70

leader in innovation.
Hideyuki Ando
The maritime sectors in Norway and Japanaredigitising

operations

tomaintainacompetitive edge in the global market and
meet

new

sustainability

requirements.

Advanced technologies including Big Data,
artificial intelligence and the Internet ofThings are being deployed to help achievethis.

MTI (NYK Group)
R&D teams at both companies are now
collaborating on the ‘Cepa Shield’ project,with Internet of Things and Big Data analysis
being used to allow 50 vessels to receive realtime communication and alerts. The project
aims to streamline operations and improvesafety by removing human errors.

"It is very exciting for Dualog to work with
NYK as they are pushing innovation in themaritime sector forward and have valuable
partnerships with companies such as NTT.
Collaboration among Dualog and NYK with
its partners have been ongoing since 2017

Dualog sees the real value in data collection
and analysis coming from the ability to bringdata to shore and the ability to share it further.
NYK is a valuable partner for Dualog due toits effort to take the leading position in datasharing and innovation within the sector.

by Dualog actively trying to address the

The extensive field trials will achieve achallenges NYK is facing as shipowners."

number of objectives. Firstly, it will help

69

NYK to stay a step ahead of rivals. Secondly,
Morten Lind-Olsen

the services and technologies developed,

CEO of Dualog

such as the Dualog drive, are expected to be

NYK has been developing a partnership with
Norwegian company Dualog to explore ways
in which they can bring about significant
technologicaladvancement

withinthemaritime sector.

as attractive to help it develop Internet ofThings solutions to monitor its fleet of ships.

46

readilyindustry as they strive to become safer andmore efficient. This highlights the synergistic
relationship between agile innovators andincumbent firms, which ensures that robust
and workable solutions are successfully

NYK saw Dualog’s bespoke digital platform

Developingused by other players in the global maritime

accessible

real-time

automated flows of data was a key challenge.

implemented.

27

47

4.4

Innovation
providing newopportunities
This subsection focuses on trends in digital innovationand how start-up partnerships are helping both Norway
and Japan to modernise their economies and transition toSociety 5.0.

28

48

Potential opportunities for consideration:

EdTechNorway as a global leader in digital learning platforms canwork with Japan to innovate its education system throughnew learning habits and methods for studying.

Society 5.0
Norway’s excellence in digital welfare and smart city
technologies can be of interest to Japan while working toachieve its future Society 5.0 and moonshot goals.

Digital transformation of public
services
Norway’s experience in the development and deployment of
e-government initiatives can be shared with Japan throughdialogue and exchange of options and best practices.

49

Innovation providing
new opportunities

The development of new technologies andby successful partnerships in recent years

business models is disrupting the traditionalsuch as Sanden’s investment in Exabel in

way of doing things across the globe.

2018, venture capital firm DRONE FUND’s

Notably, the pace of change and successinvestment in GRIFF Aviation in 2019, andindigitaltransformation

variesgreatly

between industries and sectors. To speedupinnovation,

sharingexperiencesandbest practices to help ensure progress isimportant.

and Oda through the Vision Fund in 2020-21.
Digitalisation is high on the agenda for the
Norwegian government. The direction is set

Norway’s cluster programme has helped
support Norwegian industries for over 15
years, contributing to making the country atest bed for innovation and the developmentby Norway’s Agency for Public Management
and eGovernment (Difi) and the Digitisation
Council.71 The increasing use of technologicalsolutions when providing public services toof new technologies. Programmes focus on

citizens and other persons in Norway is at the

specific topics while engaging companies

forefront of innovation both at the nationalfrom a variety of relevant industries andand local level of government institutions.72

territories. Two leading examples include the

The aim is to improve the efficiency andCluster for Applied AI (artificial intelligence)

quality of public services and to modernise

and the Ocean Hyway Cluster.

government in general.73 As outlined in Figure

The Cluster for Applied AI aims to create
an optimal platform to help participatingcompanies achieve sustainable development
through

artificial

intelligence.

Membersof the cluster benefit from shared data,
infrastructure and other technologies tofacilitate artificial intelligence applications

29, Norway is well above average comparedto other European countries and ranks third
in the digital economy.74
NorwayandJapan

recognisetheimportance of supporting innovation andentrepreneurship in both large corporations

within their respective businesses.

andRecognising the need to attract the best

new ideas and technologies so that Norway

talent and ideas from across the world,and Japan can seize new opportunities andthese programmes are open to international

retain competitiveness in global markets.

foreigncompanies

canbenefitsmallerstart-ups.

Furtherclusterdevelopment and dialogue will help generateorganisations and institutions. Moreover,fromextensive European and Norwegian financial
support schemes. Japan has had a keen eyeon Norwegian companies, as demonstrated
50

SoftBank’s investments in Kahoot!, AutoStore

100

75

50

25

0
DESI

Connectivity Human CapitalUse of Internet Integration of Digital public
services
digitalservices
technology
NorwayEU

Figure 29: Norway’s relative performance in the digital economy in Europe in 202051

4.4.1

Tomra Japan’s approach to recycling
recognised by the METI Minister's award

This case study shows how Norwegianwith Higashi-Yamato city to increase thetechnology is helping Japanese consumers

number of RVMs installed. Moreover, The

to recycle more PET bottles.

Nippon Foundation has agreed to cover halfof the installation fee.78 Notably, by 2020, ap-

Media coverage on plastic waste, especially

proximately 1,300 RVM units have been in-installed, mostly in the Kanto area.79

terms

of

damagedone

tomarineecosystems, has raised the profile of circular
economy business models and recycling
amongst consumers. Japan has an admirable
track record in the recovery of plastic waste.
The Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle
recovery rate of 91.5 percent in 2018 led toan 84.6 percent recycling rate of all bottles.77
Tomra Japan’s efforts have helped Japan
maintain its high recycling rate by introducing
the Reverse Vending Machine (RVM).
"We take this as evidence that reverse
vending has become a real benefit inJapan and that more and more consumers
are starting to view used drink containers
as a resource, rather than waste." 75
Sonny Söderberg
President of Tomra Japan
Tomra Japan was jointly established in 2008
by Sumitomo Shoji from Japan and Tomra
Systems from Norway to provide automatedreverse vending solutions for PET bottles andaluminium and steel cans for retailers andmunicipalities.
The RVMs are placed at supermarket chainsand convenience stores for easy access. Seven-Eleven Japan has installed around 300
units so far and has decided to collaborate
52"RVMs improve the recycling quality, because
machines use sensor technology to crush PET
bottles at source making collection easier andgreener. The reduced size saves collection
costs and lowers the CO2 emissions as fewer
truckloads are needed." 76
Daisuke Fujii
Sumitomo Shoji
In 2016, Tomra Japan collected 9,300 tonnesof used bottles (300 million bottles) or 1.5
percent of the total consumption of bottles.80 The following year, their efforts wererecognised when the Reduce, Reuse, Promotion Association (3R Promotion Association)
awarded them the METI Minister’s Award.
Norway also has an admirable recycling trackrecord with a 97 percent plastic bottle recycling rate, which puts Norway ten years
ahead of its European counterparts.81 As theworld looks for more sustainable solutions
and technologies it can look to both Norway
and Japan as leaders in this field.

Figure 30: Tomra Japan wins METI award

Figure 31: RVMs by Tomra
53

4.4.2

Cognite helps Japanese industry
digitalise operations

This

case

study

looks

at

Cognite’s

Petroleum, OMV, BP and Saudi Aramco.83

platformtooptimiseThe

digitalindustrial

asset

management

in

the

energyandcoresoftware,CogniteData Fusion, helps industrial users reduce

infrastructure sectors.

costs and achieve sustainable goals through

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated

and equipping workers with digital tools.

digitalproduction optimisation, smart maintenance,
Japan.

Both

Customers benefit from reduced downtime,

have

been

efficient use of resources and smarter

seeking new solutions to get to grips with new

demand projections. Use of the platform cantransformation

government

and

in

businesses

work practices and offering more flexible
ways of dealing with partners and customers.
Cognite has been playing its part in enabling
the digitalisation of asset management in theenergy and infrastructure sectors by working
in Japan with companies like Sumitomo
Corporation.

Cognite to Japan.
We have a long-standing partnership with Cognite’s parent company, Aker, and we are happy
to start working together in Japan. Industries
such as oil and gas and manufacturing havean unrealised potential when it comes to using
data to optimise their operations.
We believe that Cognite’s technology contains
the solution to this issue." 82
Masahiko Yokohama
General Manager of
Sumitomo Corporation
Whilst Cognite has its origins serving theoil company Aker BP, it has now expanded
globallywithbring about a 15 to 18 percent decrease inannual operational costs.
Digital transformation of industry has recently
caught on in Japan, making the 2019 openingof

Cognite’s

in

Tokyo

Asia-Pacificverytimely.

headquarters

Since

beginning

operations, the company has seen interest"Sumitomo Corporation is happy to welcome

54

company’s

customers

likeLundinacross the industry and secured customers
like Yokogawa Electric Corporation.
Asbusinessesindigitising

increase

operations

their
and

interest

seek

more

sustainable solutions, companies like Cognite
will help to revolutionise the use of Big Dataand artificial intelligence for analytics to savecosts and resources.

Figure 32: Digitalisation by Cognite

Figure 33: Digital transformation for heavy industries55

4.4.3

Norwegian EdTech transforming learningThis case study looks at how Norwegian

SoftBank’s investment of NOK 1.8 billion

EdTech companies are helping Japanesein Kahoot! in 2020 may help push forward

students to find new ways to study.

change in Japan. Due to the ongoing COVID-19
pandemic, SoftBank predicts there is robust

Reform is coming to the education system indemand for the digital learning platform

Japan through the GIGA School Programme,

designed to empower everyone includingin which the Japanese government haschildren, students, and employees.

invested over NOK 16 billion both in 2019and 2020.85 To promote the wider use of

EdTech offerings are diverse. A notable ex-

ICT in schools, the government’s ambitions

ample is Inspera, which has developed a se-

are founded on the principle of “one device

cure and reliable platform for digital exams

for one student with a high-speed network

and assessments of students in primary, sec-in every school”. The Ministry of Economy,

ondary, and higher education. Working close-

Trade and Industry (METI) is also funding
initiatives to help EdTech companies get astronger foothold in the education sector.86

ly with Norway’s education sector, Inspera
has helped to digitise paper-based national
tests.89 Another example is Conexus, a leading provider of digital learning platforms used

"It’s all about the general switch in mindset fromby thousands of schools and more than one

digital tools being a nice-to-have additional set

million students worldwide.90

of features in schools and classrooms, to being
maybe the most important toolkit they can

By 2023, the EdTech market in Japan is pro-use to create engagement."

jected to be worth NOK 24 billion.91 As the84market rapidly grows, there will be opportuEilert Hanoa

nities for more partnerships with leading and

CEO of Kahootemerging Norwegian companies to help de-

Norway is a natural partner for Japan given
its vibrant EdTech sector with names like
Kahoot!, Conexus and Inspera developing
new learning methods using concepts ofgamification to better motivate students.
Norway is a leader in the field of EdTech,
which began in the early 2000s, and attracts
17 percent of all EdTech investments in
Europe.87 The sector is growing fast withmore than 80 companies and over 140 million
users internationally.88
56

velop the Japanese market.

Figure 34: Norwegian EdTech

Figure 35: Chilren with No Isolation robot
57

4.4.4

Digital healthcare to the rescue

This overview shows the rapidly growing

in the world and is very committed to

role

can

improving the lives of its elderly citizens. This

contribute to the transformation of theis demonstrated, for example, by a growing

healthcare sector in Japan.

numberof

Norwegianstart-ups

that

With aging populations in both Norway andJapandeveloping

sustainable

healthcare

and welfare services is becoming more ofa pressing challenge for both nations. Thiswas recognised at the 6th Japan-Norway

healthcare-techcompaniesthat are focusing on improving the livesof patients and helping the elderly to stayin their homes longer.94 New technologies
include sensor monitoring, video systems
for remote patient-physician communicationand fall detection Internet of Things systems.

Joint Committee Meeting in 2018, where

Especially in the field of smart homes andagreements were made to include “healthcare

welfare, Norway is a global pioneer withand welfare technology” as a new prioritised

several highly successful start-ups. Sensio isarea for cooperation to encourage greater

Norway’s largest player in welfare technology

sharing of knowledge. 92

and has implemented over 10,000 smart

Both countries have been spearheading
programmes to drive innovation in healthcare.
Whilst Japan is focusing on its “life innovation”
initiative, Norway is exploring technologies todevelop sustainable healthcare and welfare
through cluster programmes such as theNorwegian Smart Care Cluster (NSCC) andhome installations to date. Jodapro delivers
software and hardware technologies for“digital collaboration in patient care” during
emergency situations.95 Dignio has developed
a platform that allows patients to remotely
monitor their health with the use of sensing
devices and data analytics.

the Norway Health Tech cluster. The NSCC

Norwegianconsists of 220 businesses and government

the digitalisation of healthcare to secure

institutions. As an international hub for

comfortable lives for the growing elderly

companies, healthcare providers, research

populations, including in Japan. Companies

and development institutions and financial

like MediStim are focusing on ultrasonicplayers,​the cluster’s aim is to enhance

surgical guidance and are active in theitsJapanese market.

globalcompetitivenessbyworking

on several sub-projects at the national
testing centre called the Norwegian Smart
Care Lab.93 Norwegian as well as foreign
member companies can gain expertise fromnetworking opportunities the cluster offers
and further expand their businesses.
Norway is one of the most digitised countries
58ofcompanies

areengagedin

In the rapidly developing sector of AgeTech,furthering collaboration between Norway
and Japan within digital healthcare andwelfare will be necessary to urgently addresschanging demographics resulting from ageing
societies.

36

59

4.4.5

Norwegian start-ups to look out forThisoverview

showcases

Norwegianto conventional solutions. Ideal for space-start-ups in a diverse range of sectors that

restricted

could be of interest to Japan when tackling

can increase storage capacity by up to fourglobal challenges related to climate change,

times without moving location and improves

healthcare and Society 5.0.

performance by ten times without hiring

Norway’s start-up scene is vibrant and rapidly
developing, with both Norwegian and foreign
entrepreneurs

andinvestors

discovering

new opportunities to make the country
a leader in technology and innovation.

locations,

AutoStore’s

systemextra staff. Partners in Japan include Nittoriand Shiseido, and in 2021 SoftBank Groupacquired 40 percent of AutoStore’s sharesfor NOK 23.2 billion. More details: https://
autostoresystem.com/

The Norwegian government is supporting

Bergen Carbon Solutions (BCS) produces

innovation through various funding schemes,carbonincluding direct investment in start-ups,

andincentives for entrepreneurs and investors,

process. The product is lighter than plastic

and programmes such as incubators andand stronger than steel, with exceptional

accelerators.

thermal and electrical conductivity that has

96

nanofibers

carbonaninnovative

dioxide-negative

using

production

a wide range of industrial and technologicalThe entrepreneurial spirit of the Nordic

applications. Instead of using natural gas toregion has drawn attention from all over the

produce carbon nanofibers, which results inworld and Japanese investors have invested

carbon dioxide emissions, BCS uses captured

in or acquired at least 36 Nordic-foundedcarbon dioxide and Norwegian hydropower

start-ups since 2013.97 Organisations like theto produce the nanofibers, leaving only

Nordic Innovation House are promoting start-

oxygen

ups to foster partnerships and are active inbergencarbonsolutions.com

emissions.

Moredetails:

https://

Japan, reflecting both countries’ appetite forworld-class technologies.

Compact Carbon Capture (3C) aims to makeThe range of start-ups mirrors Norway’s

By cutting investment costs and introducing

unrivalled strengths not only in seafood anda high-speed rotation technology, 3C can not

the maritime sector, but also other areas

only decrease plant sizes by 75 percent, butlike energy, digital transformation, EdTech

also provide a scalable solution to capacities

and healthcare. Below is a small sample ofof

Norwegian start-ups to watch out for.

compactcarbon.no

AutoStore delivers automated robot-based

Decon-X

warehouse

automatedsystemswhichcarbon capture cheaper and more accessible.

reducethestorage footprint by 75 percent compared60

varioussizes.

hasMoredeveloped

disinfection

details:a

http://

user-friendly

robot,

Decon-X

DX1, that extracts dry mist consisting ofhydrogen peroxide and removes 99 percent

widespread and lead to improved physical,of all microbes, viruses and spores from themental and social well-being. More details:room and all its surfaces and equipment. The

https://motitech.no

robot’s sensor measures all the parametersof the disinfection process and provides theuser with the results. More details: https://NOVELDA

providestheworld’smostaccurate, intelligent, and reliable sensor

www.deconx.com/en

solution for human presence detection.

EpiGuard has developed the EpiShuttle which

can detect humans up to ten metres away,

is a self-contained stretcher designed for the

enabling secure remote log-in to a PC. The

transportation of contagious patients. Its

ground-breaking technology offers new levels

advantages include less personal protectionof user experience and is integrated on aequipment for medical staff, on-site medical

single chip, making delivery between devices

and intensive care, and a dual protection

seamless. In 2020, NOVELDA announced theirsystem that can be set to either protect thecooperation with Lenovo’s Yokohama-based

environment from the infected patient or

team to integrate their product into Lenovo

protect the patient from contaminates in thelaptops. More details: https://novelda.com

Their ultra-wideband (UWB) impulse radar

air. More details: https://epiguard.com

No

Isolation

wants

to

end

involuntary

Evoy designs, develops, and delivers electricloneliness and social isolation by developing

motor systems for new and existing power

communicationboats aiming to eliminate boating emissions.

affected. The two most exposed groups are

Their 100 percent electric motor systemchildren and young adults, and people overhas no emissions, no fumes and little noise,

the age of 80. No Isolation has developed twobringing a ground-breaking technology to

products to fight loneliness on a large scale.

the electric boating market. The powerful

The AV1 is a telepresence robot that acts as aplug-and-play inboard and outboard turn-key

child’s eyes, ears and voice in the classroom

system can be placed into any boat between

and helps sick school children keep in contact

20 and 50 feet. More details: https://www.

with their classmates and learn from home.

evoy.no/about

Their second product, KOMP, helps elderly

Motitech has developed a system thatprovides physical and mental stimulation
for the aged and those living with dementia.
By using an exercise bike and an audiovisual stimulation system, users can take

tools

that

help

those

stay in touch with their loved ones throughan easy-to-use tablet that allows children
to share photos, messages, and make video
calls. More details: https://www.noisolation.
com/global

cycling trips through familiar surroundings

Pexip is a high-quality video communicationandplatform that connects all video conference

childhoodmemories.

Benefitsare61technology with a single solution. The Pexip

developers make better decisions faster,

Infinity technology offers both ‘self-hosted’

through a revolutionary software that doesand ‘as-a-service’ deployment options todifficult and time-consuming computations

provide a world-class meeting and callingand design generation. More details: https://

service. The company has a presence inwww.spacemakerai.com

Japan through their distributor VTV Japan.
More details: https://www.pexip.com
ScanReach is a maritime Internet of Things
company with the mission of developing
affordable

andtechnologies

foruser-friendly

lifesaving

vessels

offshoreandinstallations, in particular for Personnel
On Board control. They have developed theworld’s first maritime wireless Internet ofThings platform that enables locating of
personnel and asset control in complex andconfined steel environments by removing
the need for expensive cabling through theestablishment of wireless mesh networks
that

functionindemandingmaritime

environments. More details: https://www.
scanreach.com
Scantrol Deep Vision is a company that
supplies innovative solutions for fish sampling.
Their Deep Vision technology is a subsea
vision system that identifies and measures
fish underwater without having to bring thecatch onboard the vessel. This technology
is invaluable for marine researchers andis a technology that contributes to moresustainable fisheries. More details: https://deepvision.no
Spacemaker is the world’s first commercial
platform that uses artificial intelligence
to help architects, urban planners, and
62

37

63

4.5

A sound future
based on research
linksThis subsection shows how aligned goals and strong
relationships in government, academia and industry
are driving initiatives to commercialise new sustainable
technologies.

38

64

Potential opportunities for consideration:

Greater participation in common
research programmes
The promotion and support of clusters in Norway can help
Japanese companies gain access to partners, customers
and expertise when participating in EU- and Norway-funded
research programmes. Clusters may include a range ofcompanies and institutions in applied artificial intelligence,sustainable maritime transport and hydrogen technologies.

Industry-focused research initiatives
Norwegian universities and research institutions haveexpertise in areas such as marine and material science,
renewable and clean energy, and maritime engineering.
The Japanese private sector can gain access to worldclass research groups to help develop next generation
technologies by collaborating with these Norwegianorganisations.

Commitment to the bilateral agreement on Cooperation in Science andTechnology
Norway will continue to work within the agreement tofurther research, innovation and education. This will create
further opportunities for Norway-Japan collaboration andknowledge-based business development.

65

A sound future basedon research links

Science and technology relations between

meet global needs in transitioning to a more

Norway and Japan have continued to growsustainable future, as formulated in Japan’s

and prosper since the bilateral Agreement

Society 5.0.

between the Government of Norway and
the Government of Japan on Cooperation in
Science and Technology was signed in 2003.98
Six subsequent joint committee meetings
have been held to discuss and agree actions
on the agreement. This has contributed to a
substantive deepening of science, technology
and innovation exchanges and has firmly
established cooperation as one of the mostimportantfoundations

for

the

bilateral

relationship. Common challenges like ageing
populations, the environment and climatechange, coupled with shared ambitions to bepioneers in the development of sustainable
technologies to meet these challenges make
Norway and Japan ideal partners. Bothnations have complementary competences
and research environments that form a firm
foundation for cooperation.

Research Council of Norway, Innovation
Norway, the Directorate for Higher Educationand Skills, the Norwegian Seafood Council,
Norwegian

ChamberofCommerce

Japan, along with the Embassy of Norway inTokyo, work on the premise of a “knowledge
triangle” or tripod. This refers to the threepillars of research, innovation and businessdevelopment, through which Japan and66

technology and business development has
been further emphasised in Japan by the
inclusion of “Innovation” in Japan’s 6th Basic
Plan on Science, Technology and Innovationthat was published in March 2021. This Planaddresses the needs of Society 5.0 directly
and underlines international cooperation as ameans to realise this vision. In this emphasis
on innovation and international cooperation,
Norway and Japan can find common groundfor a deepening of bilateral dialogue on
research cooperation and sustainable growth.
Norway-Japan

researchcooperation

todate has been broad, with research themes
including the development of renewableenergy such as offshore wind and floating
solar

Indeed, “Team Norway Japan”, that is thetheIndeed, the role of innovation in science,

power,

ocean

space

researchforsustainability, cooperation on polar and spaceresearch in both the Arctic and the Antarctic,
material science, and climate change andsustainability. Figure 39 reflects the growing
cooperation

outlinedbytheincreasing

number of papers co-published by Norway
and Japan. Proactive participation in thecommercial sector initiatives has generated
positive results in producing many diverse
technologies.

Norway can showcase bilateral dialogue,

Norway and Japan have enjoyed many

knowledge-based innovation and businessbenefits resulting from their well-establisheddevelopment. This is a model that allows

and long-term partnerships. The year 2015

for innovative technology development tomarked great progress for the bilateral

700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
2011

2012

Humanities

2013

2014

Medicine and health2015

Natural sciences

2016
Social sciences

2017

2018
Technology

Figure 39: Number of collaborative academic papers between Norway and Japan

relationship, illustrated by the Norway-Japanand seminars and continued Norwegian par-Energy Science Week and Norway prioritising

ticipation at the International Hydrogen andJapan for cooperation in Norway’s Panorama

Fuel Cell Expo in Tokyo, supported by thestrategy programme.

Embassy of Norway. Topics covered by these

The 2015 Norway-Japan Energy Science
Week

focusedon“Sustainable

EnergySolutions”, with key areas for cooperation
includingenergymarineresearch,

and

the

environment,

advancedmaterials,

nanotechnology, polar research and spaceresearch. These areas reflect the priority
areas under the aforementioned bilateralagreement on Cooperation in Science andexchanges have included the establishmentof value chains for environmentally friendly
production and distribution of hydrogen, andthe development of new technologies for theuse of hydrogen in the transport sector. Exchanges and cooperation on developing hydrogen value chains remain one of the mostimportant areas for bilateral cooperation
within the energy field.

Technology.
The continued cooperation on marine science
This Science Week has seen several long-is fully reflected in the project ExcelAQUA 2.0,

term outcomes. Cooperation on the hydro-

focusing on marine aquaculture. The collabo-

gen economy has continued through events

ration is an exchange programme between
67

the University of Bergen and other Norwe-cellence in research through two key funding

gian institutions in Bergen with several Jap-

programmes, INTPART and UTFORSK.

anese universities including the University ofTokyo, University of Hokkaido and Nagoya

The INTPART programme has been particu-

University, and Japan Fisheries Research andlarly important in supporting the develop-

The research group in

ment of aluminium alloys between Norwe-

Bergen is part of a well-functioning research

gian and Japanese research institutions andand innovation ecosystem collaborating withcompanies. Notable results from the project

Norwegian aquaculture industry.

include students from both Norway and Ja-

Education Agency.

99"I developed connections with researchers
I met through the Science Week and there
were a number of cases that led to joint research." 104pan participating in engaging exchange programmes and internships, with a few students receiving full-time offers from leading
companies in the aluminium industry. The
programmes have strengthened interaction

Professor Koji Amezawa
Tohoku University
Polar research exchange has continued withadditional research both in the Arctic and Antarctic. These topics were further discussed atthe 2016 Norway-Japan Arctic Science andin research, education and innovation in industry and further increased researcher andstudent mobility. As a result, the Norwegian
government is prioritising further cooperation with Japan by extending the Panorama
strategy for a second term running from2021-2027.

Innovation Week, which proved to be a suc-

"There are some fantastic examples ofcessful arena for establishing cooperation

Japanese investment in our country and vice

between new partners to share research in-versa. There is a growing need to increase ourfrastructure. The Arctic remains an import-

research-based cooperation and work more

ant point of Norwegian-Japanese knowledge

on high-tech development, which are areas ofdevelopment, and new collaborations andkey competence for Norway that can benefit

projects are at present being mapped out on

Japan." 103

Arctic research that aim to bring new knowledge on climate and environmental change.

Haakon Haugli
CEO of Innovation Norway

In 2015, Japan was designated by Norway as

68

a priority country for cooperation in higher

In 2019, the Research Council of Norway

education and research as part of the Nor-signed the “Money Follows Cooperation”

wegian government’s Panorama strategy.

100agreement with the Japan Agency for Science

The Panorama strategy has been successful

and Technology (JST), which facilitates a mu-in establishing long-term partnerships for ex-tual establishment of national research pro-

Figure 40: Japan-Norway joint committee meeting

grammes.101 The Research Council has been

Science and Technology Agency (JST), Japan

engaged to ensure exchange of researchers

Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS),

and the establishment of collaborative proj-

New Energy and Industrial Technology De-

ects and research networks, within the prior-velopment Organisation (NEDO) and Japan

ity areas under the agreement and their own

Agency for Medical Research and Develop-

roadmap for cooperation with Japan.

ment (AMED).

Both Norway and Japan are active in coop-

The continued ties between Norway and Ja-

eration with the European Union throughpan in academia and the research sector are

the Seventh Framework Programme for Re-

key to expanding research collaboration ini-search and Technological Development (FP7),

tiatives at all levels, from student exchange

whose activities have continued under the

programmes, to industry internship opportu-

new name of European Interest Group (EIG)

nities, to partnerships between institutions

CONCERT-Japan. Japan actively participates

and the private sector. This will not only help

in the CONCERT-Japan initiative and aims

to address today’s challenges, but also moti-

to further develop science and technology

vate young scientists and ensure future re-cooperation between Europe and Japan.

search themes maintain their relevance.

102

This provides a framework for dialogue withresearch councils in Japan, such as Japan
69

4.5.1

Norwegian universities leadparticipation in KIFEE

This case study looks at how NorwegianandJapanese

research

institutions

arecollaborating in fields to address climate
issues and energy alternatives.

recently policy has driven activity to target
solving economic and social challenges suchas ageing populations and environmental
issues. Inspired by the Kyoto Protocol, theKyoto International Forum for Environment
and Energy (KIFEE) was created in 2004
developandpromoteScience and Technology (NTNU), which has
a long-standing partnership with JapaneseJapan is a world leader in research andtoThe second is the Norwegian University ofinternational

cooperation between universities working touniversities"Norwegian universities have world-leading
researchers and engineers in the four fields
covered, and we are aware that our activities
at KIFEE have produced significant results interms of research and education exchange." 106Professor Koji Amezawa

I look forward to deepening and strengthening our collaborative relationships in Japan."105
Gunnar Bovim
Rector of The Norwegian
University of Science and Technology
This project is led by top universities in the
Kyoto area and the main programmes are
the KIFEE symposia which began in 2004 andthe Mobility Grants which were establishedin 2016 to encourage greater movement
andresearchers

betweencollaborating institutions in Norway andJapan.108
TwoTohoku University

NorwegianBergeninstitutions

have

been

(UiB),

which

cooperatesonclimate, marine, energy and polar research.
70

Held regularly since 2004 with themes suchas inorganic materials, biomaterials andchemical processes, the KIFEE symposia hasbrought together leading researchers and engineers from universities and national laboratories from both Norway and Japan.110 Since
2014, over 60 joint articles have been published between Norway and Japan, demonstrating success in promoting joint researchand the substantial commitment from bothcountries.111
With a firm foundation and ongoing exchanges, the future looks positive for more collaboration between Norway and Japan, espe-

active in this initiative. First, the Universityofmathematics,

science and international politics.109"We see many areas where we can cooperate.

students

physics,

neuroscience, energy, environment, materials

develop a sustainable society.107

ofincially as global issues become more pressing
and world-class collaborations are needed tosolve them.

Figure 41: KIFFEE symposium

Figure 42: INPART programme students

714.5.2INTPART programme helps develop newaluminium alloys

This case study shows how collaboration

research, education, and business triangle.

between academia and business can lead

The kick-off workshop held in 2016 between

to concrete results and the development of

NTNU, University of Toyama and Tokyo Insti-

new products.

tute of Technology (Tokyo Tech) included 64
NTNU students, 12 Toyama Students, and 33

The INTPART programme established andTokyo Tech students and professors.

funded by the Research Council of Norway
has the objective of developing world-class"The goal now is to further develop relations

research groups in Norway through long-termand collaborative activities both withininternational cooperation.

academia and business, as a basis for strong

114

The programmeemphasises integrating higher education andand more formalised bonds." 112

research with business partners, and Japan
has been an active member since it joined in
2015.

The Norwegian University of Science andTechnology"Exchange of students on Master and PhD
level between the university partners withresearch close to the aluminum industry, will
ensure strong and long-lasting international
collaboration."

113

Associate Professor Equo Kobayashi
Tokyo Institute of Technology
The “Norwegian-Japanese Aluminium Alloy
Research and Education Collaboration” projectis a great example of the commercialisationof aluminium alloys brought about fromresearch. Research partners have been able
to engage key private sector players in both
Norway and Japan during the research phaseand in transferring knowledge to businessduring product development.
Over three years there were workshops, student exchanges, and internship programmes,
attracting many students and enhancing the72

Professor Randi Holmestad

Following this, there were ongoing exchanges of students between universities and internships at Hydro Aluminium in Norway
and Kobelco, UACJ Corporation and Nippon
Light Metal in Japan. The Japan Aluminium
Association also strongly supported the programme.
This project shows how the cooperation ofacademia and business supported by government is crucial for developing new commercial opportunities. Drawing on the strengthsof Norwegian and Japanese partners andwith well-established relationships, further
collaboration will no doubt follow.

Figure 43: INPART programme

73

5.0
A bright future

Common interests and sector strengths

This

betweencoupledcooperation in the energy, seafood, maritime,with the deepening relationships at thedigital and research sectors, which reflect

government, academic and industry level,some of the joint achievements so far. Therepaint a positive picture for many newis scope for a lot more collaboration andopportunities for creating value together for

Table 1 summarises immediate opportunities

a sustainable future.

on which Norway and Japan can focus. Many

NorwayandJapan,

reporthasoutlined

examplesofof these are steps towards the goals both
The world was a very different place whencountries, as likeminded partners, share on a

Norway-Japan formal diplomatic relations

sustainable future. These items can be usedkicked-off in 1905. Today, global issues

as the basis for further discussions between

are affecting all nations and the need for

Norway and Japan to seek new opportunities

sustainability is at the top of the agenda.

at the government or industry level.

Despite the challenges that society faces, thenumerous examples of strong partnerships
between Norway and Japan are a testament
to what can be accomplished.

44

74

Table 1: Potential opportunities between Norway & Japan

SectorArea of interest

Opportunity

EnergyHydrogen

Expand the hydrogen economies by developing new technologies and solutionsin Norway and Japan

EnergyOffshore wind

Develop Japan’s vast offshore resources

EnergyBattery supply chain in

Develop greener battery production and

Norwaygain access to the European lithium-ion
battery value chain

Seafood

Aquaculture

Fast-track uptake of land-based aquaculture systems in Japan

Seafood
Seafood
Maritime
Maritime
Maritime

Further supply chain devel-

Enhance and/or fill gaps within and short-

opmenten Japan’s seafood supply chain

Greater leadership in sea-

Use strong position of both nations to set

food sector

the agenda through new initiatives

Digital transition in the mar-

Increase implementation of advanced

itime sector

technologies in maritime solutions

Cooperation with the clus-

Further innovation and collaboration withter programmes

Norway’s leading maritime companies

Greater electrification

Further development of battery technologies for maritime use

Maritime
Digital/Innovation

Development of autono-

Aid transition to the use of autonomous

mous

for maritime coastal vessels

EdTechIncrease opportunities for more cost-effective and efficient education tools andsystems

Digital/Innovation

Society 5.0

Collaborate with Norwegian start-ups
to develop all facets of Society 5.0 more
quickly, especially smart city and digital
healthDigital/Innovation
Research/Academia

Research/Academia

Digital transformation of

Improve the access to, efficiency andpublic services

resilience of government services

Greater participation in

Access to sector expertise, business

common research pro-partnerships and funds from the EU andgrammes

Norway for research programmes

Industry-focused research

Develop next-generation technologies ininitiatives

marine and material science, renewable
and clean energy, and maritime engineering

Research/Academia

Commitment to the agree-

Develop a common Norway- Japan

ment on Cooperation in

knowledge base for innovation and busi-

Science and Technology

ness development
75AppendicesA.
Economic indicators
Norway-Japan

Table A1: General facts related to both countries in 2020

Item

NorwayJapan

Population (millions)

5.3

126

Land Area (km2)

323,808

377,975

Fresh water control (km2)

18,754

13,430Real GDP (billion USD)

$ 366

$ 5,346

Real GDP growth (annual % change)- 2.5 %

- 4.8 %

GDP per capita (USD)$ 68,117$ 42,368

Trade (% of GDP)

36.3 %

17.5 %

Agriculture (% of GDP)

1.93 %

1.24 %

Industry (% of GDP)

29.1 %

29.07 %

Services (% of GDP)

57.72 %

69.31 %

Unemployment rate

5.0 %

2.9 %

Gini coefficient

28.6

33.8

Source: <OECD, WorldBank, Statistics Norway, Statistics Bureau of Japan>

Table A2: Health indicators in 2020

Item

NorwayJapan

Life expectancy (years)

82.18

84.4

Elderly population (% of total population)

15.8 %

28.24 %

Health spending (% of GDP)

10.5 %

11.1 %

Source: <OECD, WorldBank, Statistics Norway, Statistics Bureau of Japan>

76

Table A3: Trade data of Norway in relation to Japan in 2020

Share (%)

ImportExportFood and live animals

0.7

56.5

Raw materials (non-edible)

0.2

1.2

Fuels, oils, electric current

0.0

4.6

Chemical products

3.9

13.8

Processed goods grouped by material

32.5

8.8

Machinery and means of transport

55.6

12.5

Various finished products

7.0

2.6

Source: <Norwegian Embassy Japan>

Table A4: Foreign Direct Investment between Norway and Japan in 2019

Item

Data

Norwegian direct investment to Japan$ 501.4 million

Japanese direct investment to Norway$ 23.8 million

Norwegian-controlled companies in Japan

28

Japanese-controlled companies in Norway

45

Source: <Japan Ministry of Finance, Norges Bank, Norwegian Embassy Japan>

77

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album-72157659596997793/

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