Japan has formally joined Horizon Europe, becoming the most populous country associated with the European Union’s flagship research and innovation program. With a population of 123 million, Japan adds one of the world’s most advanced research and innovation ecosystems to Europe’s scientific cooperation network.
The agreement enables Japanese researchers and organizations to participate in Horizon Europe on equal terms with those from EU member states and other associated countries. They will be able to join and lead international research consortia, receive EU funding, and collaborate with leading institutions to address global challenges.
Negotiations between the European Commission and the Government of Japan concluded in December 2025. Since January 2026, transitional arrangements have allowed Japanese entities to apply to Horizon Europe Pillar II calls and be evaluated as prospective beneficiaries. The association is considered a significant step in the EU–Japan Strategic Partnership, reflecting a shared commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and open international research cooperation.
The EU and Japan plan to expand collaboration in areas such as digital transition, health, and technologies supporting climate neutrality. Japan’s association covers Horizon Europe Pillar II, which has a budget of €52.4 billion and funds multinational projects addressing societal challenges in climate, energy, health, and the digital economy. Japan will also contribute financially to the program’s budget to support the participation of its entities.
Japanese participants will continue to access other parts of Horizon Europe open to third countries, including the Excellent Science pillar, the Innovative Europe pillar, and the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions, which support doctoral education, postdoctoral training, and international collaboration.
Horizon Europe has a total budget of €93.5 billion for the 2021–2027 period. It supports research and innovation aimed at tackling global challenges, advancing clean and digital transitions, contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and strengthening Europe’s competitiveness.
Japan is now the 23rd country associated with Horizon Europe, joining 22 others through mechanisms such as European Economic Area membership, enlargement processes, and the European Neighbourhood Policy. The association builds on a partnership that began in 2011 with the EU–Japan Science and Technology cooperation agreement. Recent collaboration includes recommendations from an EU–Japan expert panel on advanced materials, highlighting synergies in electronics, mobility, construction, energy, and data‑driven science.
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