The Duke of Edinburgh Tours Power Cable Factory in Osaka

On September 22nd 2025, His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh visited Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.’s Osaka Works.

This visit aligns with the company’s strategy to expand its power cable business in Europe, highlighted by the establishment of a subsidiary in the Scottish Highlands in April 2023. Currently, construction of a new factory at the Port of Nigg is underway, with the Osaka Works serving as the principal plant.

During the visit, Masayoshi Matsumoto, Chairman and CEO of Sumitomo Electric, briefed The Duke on the company’s history and operations. Senior Executive Officer Yasuyuki Shibata provided updates on the new factory in Scotland. Following the briefing, The Duke toured the power cable factory, observing the manufacturing and pre-shipment testing processes. He also engaged with young engineers involved in international projects and Scottish engineers receiving long-term training at Osaka Works. Throughout these interactions, The Duke expressed a keen interest in international talent development and Japan-UK technical cooperation.