Japan Looks to Boost Economic Ties with Gujarat, Focuses on Chips and EVs

Japan is keen to deepen its economic relationship with Gujarat, especially in semiconductor production at Dholera SIR. Japan plans to offer its expertise, while Gujarat promises top-quality infrastructure. Japan is also interested in Electric Vehicle (EV) manufacturing and wants faster progress on the Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project.

Recently, Japan’s Ambassador to India, Keiichi Ono, and Koyoko Hokugo, Minister of Economic and Development Affairs, met Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar. They discussed ways to expand cooperation between Japan and Gujarat. Ambassador Ono praised Gujarat for supporting 350 Japanese companies already working in the state. He also pointed out Japan’s strong presence at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit. CM Patel told the Japanese team that all agreements made during the Indo-Japan summit in Gandhinagar in 2017 have been fulfilled.

During the meeting, Ambassador Ono stressed how important Dholera SIR is for semiconductor growth. Many Japanese chip companies are interested in investing there. He requested that Gujarat further improve its industrial facilities, social infrastructure, and skill development. CM Patel assured Japan that Gujarat is serious about building a semiconductor hub with world-class infrastructure. He also welcomed a survey by Japan’s Mizuho Bank in Dholera to help create the best ecosystem for semiconductor industries.

The Japanese delegation also expressed interest in establishing EV production and urged Gujarat to expedite the Ahmedabad-Mumbai High-Speed Rail project. This meeting underscores the strong and growing partnership between Japan and Gujarat, promising more joint projects in the future.