15% of the total trade volume of Japan with the world comes from Southeast Asia, the country's third largest trading bloc. More than 15,000 Japanese firms are active in the region. Cash-rich Japanese firms looking to scale up growth globally. Local governments are looking for innovative solutions to societal issues like depopulation.

We discuss these drivers for cross-border innovation and more with Takeo Nakajima, Director General of Innovation at the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).

This interview was recorded live in Singapore from the Japan SEA Market Forum 2025 hosted by the Tokyo Stock Exchange, Nikkei Asia, and JETRO.

Timestamps

(00:25) Japan’s Layered Trade and Innovation Relationship with Southeast Asia;

(03:36) Innovation Opportunities for Southeast Asia and Japanese Innovation;

(06:42) Message to Founders Looking to Build Cross-Border Innovation Between Japan and Southeast Asia;

Directed by Paulo Joquiño

Produced by Paulo Joquiño

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The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only, should not be taken as legal, tax, or business advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security, and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Insignia Ventures⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ fund. Any and all opinions shared in this episode are solely personal thoughts and reflections of the guest and the host.