NAGOYA – FPT, a global leader in IT and digital transformation, and Smart Holdings, a prominent Japan-based IT solutions provider, have announced the official launch of their joint venture, FPT Smart Technologies Japan Co., Ltd. (FST-Japan).

Headquartered in Nagoya, the new company aims to drive innovation and digital transformation across Japan’s manufacturing industry, with a strategic focus on the automotive sector.

Under the joint venture agreement, Smart Holdings holds a 51 per cent stake, while FPT holds 49 per cent, combining FPT’s cutting-edge capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI), digital engineering, and vision-language models with Smart Holdings’ deep industry expertise and strong connections within Japan’s automotive ecosystem.

FST-Japan will begin operations by partnering with a major automotive client to deliver advanced digital solutions, including the digitisation of design drawings, enhancement of solution proposals, and optimisation of production processes to help manufacturers meet stringent Quality, Cost, and Delivery (QCD) standards.

The joint venture is projected to generate approximately US$20 million (JPY 3 billion) in business opportunities over the next five years.

“FST-Japan represents our long-term vision to advance digitalization in Japan’s industrial landscape,” said Do Van Khac, Senior Executive Vice President of FPT Software and CEO of FPT Japan. “By combining global technology capabilities with local expertise, we can deliver intelligent solutions that accelerate sustainable, next-generation mobility.”

“By integrating global talent with Japan’s commitment to quality and on-site excellence, we aim to deliver innovative services that create new value for automotive manufacturers,” said Koichiro Sato, President and CEO of Smart Holdings.

With more than 5,000 engineers supporting clients worldwide including OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, and chipmakers FPT brings extensive experience in the automotive domain. The company adheres to international standards such as ISO 26262, ISO/SAE 21434, A-SPICE Level 3, and TISAX, ensuring robust and compliant digital solutions tailored for the automotive industry.

This joint venture marks a significant milestone in both companies’ efforts to foster smart, sustainable, and digital-first growth in Japan’s critical manufacturing sectors. — VNS