Japan and the European Union have come together to work on developing international standards for the hydrogen supply chain. Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on research and development assistance, safety, and price support, Japanese and EU agencies will collaborate on areas related to hydrogen technologies. The aim is to enhance the production and transportation of hydrogen fuel. The collaboration also includes sharing data on electrolysers and discussing standards for hydrogen purity. The agreement will see the creation of a joint roadmap for hydrogen usage up to 2040. The collaboration is seen as a significant step towards aligning efforts in the hydrogen sector. Japan's Minister for Economy, Trade and Industry, Ken Saito, and the European Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, are set to finalize the agreement aimed at advancing hydrogen technology and infrastructure. The joint efforts are expected to commence discussions on specific standard concepts starting in the summer of 2024. Japan has revealed its ambitious hydrogen investment plans, with a commitment to invest ¥15 trillion ($107.67bn) over the next 15 years. This investment is part of a strategy to increase the hydrogen supply from two million tonnes to 12 million tonnes by 2040. The country's revised plan emphasizes the development of electrolysis, fuel storage batteries, and large-scale tankers for hydrogen transport. The focus on these areas indicates Japan's strong determination to lead in the hydrogen economy and reduce carbon emissions associated with traditional fuel sources.