A Global Fund Procurement Forum was organized by the Japan Center for International Exchange (JCIE)/Friends of the Global Fund (FGFJ), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

The seminar introduced the mechanisms and opportunities for participating in the Global Fund procurement process, targeting Japanese companies interested in entering the international public procurement market for health products and expanding their overseas business opportunities. It also aimed to promote greater utilization of Japanese technologies and expertise to advance the fight against infectious diseases and improve global health. 

Held in a hybrid format, the seminar attracted approximately 90 participants, including representatives from 34 private companies and organizations, who actively exchanged opinions on the challenges and opportunities for participating in Global Fund financing and overseas expansion.

The seminar was followed by a networking reception, bringing together seminar participants with diplomats from 14 African embassies in Tokyo, including several ambassadors from countries that implement Global Fund programs. Attendees explored potential partnerships and business opportunities, including collaboration in such areas as vector control and innovative technologies.

The following day, JCIE/FGFJ coordinated individual consultation sessions between 12 of the participating companies/organizations and the Global Fund’s Procurement and External Relations teams to provide tailored guidance on the procurement process and explore potential opportunities for collaboration with the Global Fund.