Strengthening international collaboration on cycling infrastructure
In September 2025, the Netherlands showcased its global leadership in sustainable mobility during a high-profile trade mission to Japan. At the center of this mission was Movares Smart Urban Engineering, represented by Lennie Siesling, Managing Director of Movares International, who was invited as the private-sector expert to consult and speak at several key events.
Connecting cycling expertise between the Netherlands and Japan
The mission started at the World Expo in Osaka, where Lennie Siesling participated in a panel discussion at the Dutch Pavilion alongside Vice-Minister of Infrastructure Afke van Rijn. These sessions brought together Japanese government officials, universities, and private-sector leaders to explore how cycling can transform cities into healthier, more livable environments. A second panel with landscape architects deepened the exchange, aligning visions for people-centric urban design.
From Osaka to Matsuyama: towards Velo-city 2027
The delegation then traveled to Matsuyama, a city preparing to host Velo-city 2027. Here, Lennie contributed to a workshop titled “The Meaning of Hosting Velo-City and Learning from Bicycle Policies of Europe.” Her insights on integrated mobility solutions and long-term infrastructure planning resonated strongly with local officials and mayors from Shikoku Island, inspiring a shift from car-centric design toward sustainable, human-focused urban development.
Velo-city 2027: a catalyst for sustainable mobility in Asia
The upcoming Velo-city conference represents a major milestone for cycling and sustainable transport in Japan and across Asia.
By bringing together policymakers, engineers, researchers, and industry leaders, the event will accelerate knowledge exchange and showcase how cities outside Europe are shaping the future of urban mobility.
Key trends in cycling and urban mobility in Japan
The mission highlighted several developments that are driving the growth of cycling infrastructure in Japan:
- E-bikes and integrated bike-share systems will lower barriers, especially for older adults and tourists.
- Local governments will invest in signature cycleways to boost tourism and local economies.
- Pilot projects – temporary lanes, parking management, and cycle-friendly public transport – will test scalable solutions.
- Safety and usage gains hinge on fixing the “last mile”: continuous, safe links at intersections and stations to make bikes viable for more trips.
The result: long-term partnerships and global impact
This trade mission laid the foundation for enduring partnerships between Dutch and Japanese governments, municipalities, and private sectors. Movares will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing smart urban engineering solutions, ensuring that cycling remains central to sustainable city planning worldwide.