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Seminar on Bio-Manufacturing Implementation

On January 19, 2026, the Japan Planning Institute (JPI) will host a significant seminar focusing on the policies and challenges surrounding the implementation of bio-manufacturing in Japan. The event will feature a keynote address by Mr. Makoto Nakayama, Deputy Director of the Biological and Chemical Industry Department at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). In recent years, bio-manufacturing technologies using synthetic biology have gained traction, primarily for their ability to replace fossil-derived chemicals with alternative materials produced from microorganisms. This aligns well with Japan’s manufacturing strengths and opens up pathways for substantial reductions in CO2 emissions compared to traditional chemical processes using fossil fuels.

Overview of the Seminar

This seminar aims to clarify the multifaceted challenges and strategies necessary for successfully transitioning to bio-manufacturing. It highlights the potential environmental, food security, and health benefits while also contributing to the realization of a circular economy and sustainable economic growth. However, for these advantages to be realized, the establishment of a robust supply chain and a market that warrants investment in bio-manufacturing is crucial.

The seminar will cover various topics, including:

1. Understanding Bio-Manufacturing: Defining what bio-manufacturing encompasses and its significance.
2. Supply Chain Establishment: Strategies for a quick implementation of bio-manufacturing through the development of a microorganism and cell design platform and nurturing bio-foundries for culture, fermentation, and other production processes.
3. International Standardization: The importance of forming rules for data sharing and safety standards, including life cycle assessment (LCA) methods and the establishment of reliable databases for strains and various sector parameters.
4. Economic Security: Discussing strategies for identifying crucial technologies and fostering strategic partnerships between governmental, industrial, and academic sectors, including procurement practices.
5. Market Readiness: Developing LCA evaluation methods with a global perspective and the branding of bio-derived products to ensure consumer acceptance even at a premium price.
6. Networking Opportunities: An invaluable session allowing participants to exchange business cards with fellow attendees and speakers, facilitating future collaborations and business expansions.

Registration and Participation

Participants can choose from several formats, including in-person attendance, live streaming, or on-demand viewing for two weeks. The registration fee is ¥37,860 (including tax), with a special offer allowing one additional free admission for each paying participant. Local government officials can register at a discounted rate as well.

Post-Seminar Engagement

After the seminar, there will be opportunities to ask questions and facilitate connections between the speaker and participants, adding immense value to attendees seeking to build networks within the bio-manufacturing space.

For further details on registration and to join the conversation on advancing bio-manufacturing practices, please visit JPI’s official seminar page.

About Japan Planning Institute (JPI)

JPI has been a key facilitator of knowledge dissemination between government, industry, and academia in Japan for over fifty years. They provide essential insights to executives and senior managers involved in national policies and projects through exclusive real-world seminars.