Okayama University's Global Discovery Program Hosts Special Lecture on Trade Policy

Special Lecture on Trade Policy at Okayama University

On February 8, 2026, the Global Discovery Program (GDP) at Okayama University organized a special lecture in collaboration with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) Okayama Trade Information Center. This event featured presentations from Toshiaki Wakabayashi, the center's director, and Akino Kawamoto, a section chief at JETRO.

During the lecture, students learned about the significant effects of trade policies on national economic growth and how these policies influence employment and living standards. Director Wakabayashi provided an overview of JETRO Okayama’s operations and key initiatives, while Chief Kawamoto shared insights from his experiences at JETRO's Kuala Lumpur office in Malaysia, where he served for a year starting in 2024.

Students, many of whom had only heard of JETRO in previous classes, gained a better understanding of the organization's history, vision, and mission through this lecture. They discovered JETRO's efforts to support foreign investments and expand international business opportunities, particularly for small and medium enterprises. The audience was particularly engaged by discussions on initiatives aimed at promoting exports and attracting skilled talent from abroad.

Out of approximately 20 participants, several were from ASEAN countries or had previously studied in the region, deepening their comprehension of Japanese product strategies in relation to their home countries and study abroad experiences. The GDP offers an international bachelor's program where domestic students learn alongside international students from various backgrounds, fostering an environment for cross-disciplinary education tailored to individual interests and future objectives.

The Global Discovery Program's key mission is to cultivate globally competent human resources, and the involvement with JETRO is a promising step in this direction.

Looking ahead, the Okayama University community, particularly through programs like GDP, strives to further enhance its reputation as a leading research university with a focus on international collaboration and local-global synergies.

Continued Commitment

The university aims to continuously strengthen its role as a pivotal research institution in the region. As it engages with various stakeholders, including JETRO, it firmly believes in the profound impact of education on economic development.

Expect further advancements and contributions from Okayama University as it empowers the next generation to thrive in a globalized world.

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