Seiichi Saito has assumed the role of Secretary General at the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry in India (JCCII), succeeding Kenji Sugino in the position. The transition was formally acknowledged on April 23, 2026, during a Sunmuko Kai meeting held at the Embassy of Japan in New Delhi. The gathering brought together members of the Japanese business and diplomatic community to recognize both Saito's appointment and Sugino's contributions to Japan–India business ties.
In remarks following his assumption of office, Saito stated he was "honored" by the appointment and expressed his intention to strengthen business relations between Japan and India. He emphasized his commitment to working closely with JCCII members, the Embassy of Japan, Indian institutions and partner organizations, signaling a focus on service to member companies and deeper engagement with India's economic landscape.
Sugino, the outgoing Secretary General, had been a prominent representative of the Japanese business community in India. Throughout his tenure, he supported Japanese companies, maintained coordination with key stakeholders and strengthened the institutional presence of JCCII. His involvement in India–Japan business platforms and engagement with industry bodies had made him a central point of contact for Japan-related business dialogue in the country.
Speakers at the April 23 meeting framed the transition as a moment of continuity and renewal for JCCII. They noted that the role of Secretary General is becoming increasingly important as India–Japan economic cooperation expands into manufacturing, infrastructure, mobility, semiconductors, green technology, services, talent mobility and cultural-business linkages. Japanese companies in India are witnessing growing opportunities across these sectors, creating new demands on institutional support systems.
JCCII, established on July 17, 2006, functions as a bridge between Japanese enterprises and India's business and institutional environment. The chamber holds 661 Japanese member companies as of April 1, 2026. It facilitates trade and industry cooperation, strengthens business relations and supports member interests by sharing economic and business-related information, coordinating with the Embassy of Japan, and addressing business-environment issues with Indian authorities.
The Sunmuko Kai meeting also featured a presentation on Mela! Mela! Anime Japan!! 2026, reflecting how Japan's business, culture and people-to-people diplomacy are increasingly viewed as interconnected dimensions of the bilateral relationship. Saito's appointment comes at a significant moment for India–Japan relations, with platforms like JCCII expected to play a more proactive role in helping companies navigate policy, regulatory and market-entry challenges.
