On February 10 (Tuesday), Akira Takahashi, the Co-Representative Director＆COO of Makaira KK , will speak at the Nikkei Social Innovation Forum, “International Standardization and Rule-making for the Future”. The symposium is hosted by the Cabinet Office (Government of Japan), Keidanren (Japan Business Federation), and Nikkei Inc.

The symposium focuses on the growing global importance of strategically utilizing international standards as a key driver for corporate development and social innovation. Discussions will cover various initiatives and proposals based on the “New International Standardization Strategy” formulated this year, featuring insights from industry, government, and academia.

Takahashi will participate in both a case study presentation and a panel discussion. During the case study session, he will deliver a presentation titled “Automated Delivery Robots: Japan Leads the Way in Safety Standard Development.”

Drawing from his expertise in non-market strategies, Takahashi aims to emphasize that startups should view public affairs and rule-making as a “new mandatory subject” for business growth. He will share practical insights on how startups can change or create external environments—such as regulations and social perceptions—to successfully implement new technologies into society.

Comment from Akira Takahashi, the Co-Representative Director and COO of Makaira KK:
“We are entering an era where it is vital for corporate and industrial growth strategies to move beyond being a ‘Rule Taker’ and instead become a ‘Rule Maker.’ Rather than treating rules and the external environment as fixed constraints, companies must take the lead in creating rules that align their own interests with those of society and the world.
At the symposium, I will present our work with automated delivery robots, where we organically integrated three key pillars: amending domestic laws, establishing industry self-regulation, and developing international standards. I hope to demonstrate the immense potential for market creation and growth that proactive rule-making offers.”

Event OverviewDate & Time: February 10, 2026 (Tuesday), 13:00–16:50
Venue: Nikkei Hall
Registration: For more details and to apply, please visit: https://events.nikkei.co.jp/79497/