Call for applicants: World Class Manufacturing (WCM) training in Japan — 16–20 February 2026

Applications are open for the next edition of the World Class Manufacturing (WCM) training—an intensive, 5-day programme designed to transfer Japan’s manufacturing excellence to EU companies.

What it is

Since 1992, WCM has helped 1,000+ participants benchmark against Japan’s best practices (TQC, TQM, TPM, JIT, TIE, KAIZEN) to improve quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. The 2026 cohort combines expert lectures, Gemba factory visits, and practical reviews aimed at actionable improvements in EU production and service operations.

Key facts

Dates: 16–20 February 2026
Application deadline: 13 November 2025
Location: Japan (Tokyo; kickoff in Nagoya for selected site visits)
Cohort size: ~25 participants
Cost: Programme costs covered by the EU-Japan Centre; participants cover travel & accommodation
Deposit: €1,000 (see “Costs & deposit” below)

Who should apply (target profile)

Professionals with an engineering or scientific background who can influence production strategy (manufacturing or service operations).
Any industrial sector (manufacturing or services) is eligible.
Priority may be lower for consulting-only profiles.

What you’ll get

In-depth briefings on Lean/TQM/TPM and Japan’s quality systems
Lectures and seminars by Japanese industry experts
Gemba (factory floor) visits to advanced manufacturers/suppliers
Post-visit reviews focused on practical adoption in your company

Schedule snapshot

Mon, 16 Feb (Nagoya): start, Lean/TQM/TPM frameworks; site orientation
Tue–Thu: expert lectures, workshops, factory visits, daily reviews
Fri, 20 Feb: group presentations—observations, transfer plan, expected challenges back home

Objectives (outcomes)

Experience Japan’s manufacturing standards in situ
Internalize Lean/Kaizen strategies and improvement routines
Build a concrete view on what to adapt in your own plant/service line
Gain a broader perspective via local context & culture

Eligibility (summary)

Employed by a company (SME or large) with HQ in the EU or a country associated with the Single Market Programme (SMP), SME Pillar
Employer support letter (if not senior management); based in EU/SMP country
Full participation is required (no replacements)
English at B2 level or higher
Repeat company participation allowed (not the same employee)
Applicants may be declined if previously enrolled/absent without valid reason in Centre programmes or contrary to guidelines

Selection criteria

Company’s Lean strategy and intent to implement
Applicant’s background in Lean/process improvement
Applicant’s motivation and ability to apply tools post-mission

Costs & deposit

Covered by EU-Japan Centre: programme-related costs (factory visits, venue for workshops/discussions, bus transfers between sites).
Your responsibility: international travel, local accommodation.
Deposit: €1,000 to secure your place.
- Large companies: non-refundable contribution.
- SMEs: refundable upon full completion and post-event survey; €200/day deducted for unjustified absences on a 5-day mission.

How to express interest / apply:
Write to contact@afaceri.ro and we will guide you through the application process (eligibility check, documents, timelines) together with our EEN partners at the EU-Japan Centre.