Masayoshi Matsumoto, Chairman of Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd., has been awarded the Honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) by His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom.
The presentation ceremony took place on February 25, 2026, at the British Embassy in Tokyo.
Established in 1917 by King George V, the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire recognises individuals who have made distinguished contributions or rendered outstanding service across various fields. The honorary OBE acknowledges exceptional achievements and efforts that strengthen ties and cooperation with the United Kingdom.
This award recognizes Matsumoto’s contribution to UK-Japan trade and investment. Matsumoto has shown strong leadership as Chairman of Sumitomo Electric Industries to support the UK government’s clean energy policy. He also contributed as Chairman of the Kansai Economic Federation to strengthen economic ties between the UK and Japan and to enhance the UK’s presence in Japan.
Matsumoto’s presentation ceremony was held on February 25, 2026, at the British Embassy in Tokyo by the British Ambassador to Japan, Her Excellency Julia Longbottom.
Sumitomo Electric Group will continue to contribute to the development of Japan-UK relations in the future.
