Tokyo (SCCIJ) – At SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026, Switzerland confirmed its role as a key driver of innovation, with the Swisstech Pavilion winning the “Most Innovative Pavilion” award for the second consecutive year. Bringing together startups, institutions, and partners, the Swiss presence highlighted concrete collaboration and cutting-edge solutions for the cities of the future.
From April 27 to 29, Tokyo once again positioned itself at the forefront of urban innovation as SusHi Tech – Sustainable High City Tech – brought together over 60,000 participants and more than 700 startups at Tokyo Big Sight. Combining cutting-edge technologies with global perspectives, the event continues to establish itself as a key platform for addressing urban challenges and advancing sustainable cities.
Within this dynamic setting, the Swisstech Pavilion emerged as a clear focal point. Awarded “Most Innovative Pavilion” for the second consecutive year – following its 2025 recognition – Switzerland stood out among 55 international pavilions and booths. This distinction reflects both the strength of its startup ecosystem and the relevance of the ventures showcased.
Organized by Swissnex in Japan, with the support of partners including Presence Switzerland, Swiss Business Hub Japan, Innosuisse, Innovaud, Switzerland Global Enterprise, and the Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (SCCIJ), the pavilion featured a curated group of startups operating at the intersection of AI, robotics, cybersecurity, and climate tech. Companies such as AckTao, AVAtronics, BeEmotion.ai, DuoKey, ESG Explorer, Jaipur Robotics, Kido Dynamics, NovoViz, REM Analytics, and REOR20 illustrated how advanced science and technology can be translated into real-world applications.
This strong presence was reinforced by high-level institutional engagement. The official opening brought together Tokyo Vice Governor Manabu Miyasaka, Ambassador Roger Dubach, Swissnex CEO and Consul Dr. Felix Moesner, and SCCIJ President Michael Mroczek. A subsequent visit by Governor Yuriko Koike further underscored the importance of international collaboration in shaping next-generation urban systems.
Beyond visibility, the week was marked by concrete collaboration. Swissnex in Japan signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), strengthening ties around global connectivity and joint initiatives. Swiss startups also engaged with key players such as ATR, opening new pathways into Japan’s innovation ecosystem.
The momentum extended beyond Tokyo. In Osaka, “Swissnex Window 13: From Heidi to High Tech” (April 8-24) showcased Switzerland’s innovation landscape, connecting emerging startups with established success stories. A dedicated Swiss startup pitch event on April 24 further brought together founders, investors, and ecosystem stakeholders from across Kansai.
Back in Tokyo, the program culminated on April 28 with a high-level pitch event at the Swiss Ambassador’s Residence, alongside engagements across the venture ecosystem, including with Scrum Ventures. Contributions from industry leaders and investors added further depth and opened new perspectives for collaboration.
As SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026 concluded, the Swisstech Pavilion’s back-to-back award signals more than visibility. Across Tokyo and Osaka, Switzerland continues to position itself as a driver of open innovation – strengthening partnerships, accelerating solutions, and contributing to the cities of the future.
Text: Swissnex in Japan (Editing by SCCIJ)
