Tetsuya Watanabe

President, ERIA (Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia)

Mr. Tetsuya Watanabe is a distinguished leader in international economic policy and trade, currently serving as the President of the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA). With a career spanning over three decades in Japan’s public sector and academia, Mr. Watanabe brings a wealth of expertise in trade negotiations, economic research, and public policy. Born on October 11, 1964, Mr. Watanabe is a Japanese national whose academic foundation is rooted in law. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Law from the University of Tokyo in 1987 and subsequently passed the Japanese Bar Exam in 1986. He further advanced his legal education by obtaining an LL.M. from Columbia Law School in 1996, equipping him with a global perspective on legal and economic issues. Mr. Watanabe began his professional journey in 1987 with Japan’s Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), now known as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). Over the years, he has held numerous pivotal positions, including Director General for Trade Policy and Director General of the Multilateral Trade System Department at METI. His leadership roles have placed him at the heart of Japan’s engagement with major international economic frameworks, such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), where he served as Cabinet Counsellor at the Government Headquarters for the TPP. His career also includes significant diplomatic and advisory roles. Mr. Watanabe was a Counsellor to the Japanese Delegation to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and served as Special Advisor to the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry in 2022. He has been instrumental in shaping Japan’s policies on creative industries and international economic dispute settlement, reflecting his broad expertise and commitment to fostering innovation and cooperation in the region. In addition to his government service, Mr. Watanabe is a Visiting Professor at the Graduate School of Public Policy, the University of Tokyo, where he contributes to the next generation of policy leaders. He has also held the position of Vice President at the Research Institute of Economy, Trade and Industry (RIETI), further strengthening his profile as a thought leader in economic research. Since July 2023, Mr. Watanabe has led ERIA, driving research and policy dialogue to promote sustainable economic growth and integration across ASEAN and East Asia. His vision and leadership continue to shape the region’s economic landscape, making him a respected voice in international economic affairs.