Japan and Europe share perspectives on stable global economic and political governance. Since their 2019 Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), trade has increased and cooperation towards a sustainable low-carbon future expanded. Yet current US tariff policy has disrupted the two powers’ favoured predictable, rules-based approach. Whilst US actions alter trade strategies, governments must adapt to shifting global markets and financial conditions. This both challenges national roles and creates opportunities for collaboration towards a global energy transition. As a new trade and energy paradigm develops, Japan faces an era of economic uncertainty. Japan may favour regional interactions yet fast-paced circumstances suggest a revised global energy perspective may be appropriate. In addition to US tariffs, the Ukraine War, North Korean engagement with Russia and hegemonic China present geo-political challenges. These are matched by climate change (e.g. Japan’s extreme heat in 2025), the low-carbon transition, Artificial Intelligence and shrinking populations, factors that equally affect Europe. Shared interests in clean energy systems, related technological progress and global dialogue provide multiple points of interaction for Japan with EU and G-7 members beyond the US. This presentation evaluates opportunities for strengthening EU-Japan partnerships on topics including decarbonisation, finance, trade and energy. In fact, re-configuration of global trade may create new pathways for sustainable energy cooperation that benefit Japan.

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