Exploring opportunities in Japan and Singapore - Reflections from the field

At SuperLight Photonics, we believe in the power of exploration, not just in the photonic technologies we develop, but also in the global partnerships we build. Our recent visits to Japan and Singapore, as part of the RVO economic trade and innovation missions, provided a unique opportunity to connect, exchange, and understand how Dutch high-tech innovation is perceived in our key Asian markets. And how we can contribute to markets in Japan and Singapore.

The blog below highlights the experience and insights of our CEO, Cees Links.

What can Japan offer the Dutch high-tech sector?

It's no secret that the Netherlands has a strong value proposition when it comes to high-tech machine building and photonics, just think of companies like ASML. But what could Japan offer us in return? While Japan certainly presents attractive business prospects, the relationship is more nuanced than simply “chasing contracts”. Those are rarely handed out in early-stage engagements. Instead, our visits laid the groundwork for future collaboration through meaningful initial contacts, this is about investing in relationships, not immediate returns. Ask us again in 1 to 2 years, and we will have a clearer picture of what these efforts yield.

During the economic missions, the reception in both Japan and Singapore was warm, welcoming and respectful. There was a noticeable sense of amazement in Japan about the strength and depth of the Dutch photonics and machine-building ecosystem. That alone speaks volumes about the untapped potential in these relationships.

Japan & the Netherlands: a historical bond for a modern business case

Japan is a major economy, and the Dutch have had ties with it for centuries, dating back to the days of the VOC. In that spirit, our presence there is not just about selling products, but about discovering mutual opportunities.

At the same time, it's important to stay grounded: Japan is one of many economies to engage with, and each offers its own dynamic. Singapore, for example, stands out for its entrepreneurial mindset and small-country agility, much like the Netherlands. However, its geopolitical positioning is unique, balancing relations between China and the U.S. This neutrality can make Singapore a strategic gateway for Dutch companies to indirectly stay connected with China.

A cultural shift in Japan?

One of the more intriguing insights from the trip was the sense that Japan is looking very much outward bound, driven in part by an aging population and workforce. We had a compelling conversation with a Japanese industry insider who shared a revealing cultural perspective: “The Dutch are friendly and open minded, but too easy on foreigners to not integrate in their culture. The Japanese are proud and expect foreigners to adapt to their ways. If the Dutch aren’t careful, they might dilute their own culture very quickly, and lose some of their key qualities. They could learn something from Japan in preserving their identity.”

This reflection cuts both ways: it reminds us that international business is not just about exchange of goods and services, but also about cultural learning and mutual respect, which includes respect for your own culture, and not waste it.

Real conversations, real impressions

Throughout the trip, several Japanese companies were genuinely impressed with our broadband laser technology. These weren’t just polite conversations, there was real curiosity and enthusiasm about what Dutch photonics has to offer.

Beyond the official meetings, an unexpected but powerful takeaway was the strengthened connections within the Dutch delegation itself. Many of us knew each other by name or vaguely, but the shared experience of traveling, riding the bus together, and informal dinners helped build relationships that could be pivotal down the line. It's a reminder that ecosystems are not just built through strategy, but also through serendipity and shared experience.

Making it happen: the role of the RVO & PhotonDelta

None of this would have been possible without the expert organization by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) and PhotonDelta and the many welcoming and networking activities organized by the local Dutch embassies. From coordinating logistics and arranging company visits to creating high-value networking opportunities, RVO and PhotonDelta played a crucial role in making the mission efficient and impactful. For a small company like ours, organizing such a mission independently - across borders, languages, and business cultures - would have been nearly impossible. The support from RVO and PhotonDelta allowed us to focus entirely on our business development and technology conversations, while they ensured that no opportunity for connection or collaboration was missed. It’s a prime example of how public-private cooperation can meaningfully strengthen international market access and entry for Dutch innovators.

In particular for small, emerging companies: “cold calling” internationally is very time consuming, and the success rate is low. But with the introductions from RVO and PhotonDelta the first hurdles in developing business relations were already cleared.

Looking ahead

Dreaming about the future in today’s uncertain geopolitical climate is tough. As one of our colleagues put it, “Dreaming about the future is only possible when common sense returns to politics.” But what we can do is stay present, build connections, and keep showing up, with openness, curiosity, and world-class tech in our suitcase.