May 12, 2025
The industrial and academic landscape of Southern Italy gains a major new player: TMEIC (Toshiba Mitsubishi-Electric Industrial Systems Corporation), a global leader in industrial automation and energy solutions, has officially opened its first Italian office in Bari’s industrial district. This milestone is paired with the signing of a strategic agreement with the Polytechnic University of Bari to foster joint research, innovation, and education initiatives.
Signed by Rector Francesco Cupertino and senior representatives of TMEIC, the agreement lays the foundation for a long-term collaboration aimed at advancing applied research and supporting the local tech ecosystem. The partnership will cover several key areas:
This model of cooperation between academia and industry stands as a best practice for strengthening the regional innovation ecosystem and attracting investment to the South of Italy.
TMEIC’s decision to establish its Italian base in Bari reflects the region’s strategic importance in the clean energy transition. Akira Kawaguchi, President of TMEIC, emphasized the potential of the Puglia region as a center for developing hydrogen-based technologies and highlighted the availability of high-level engineering talent.
“The Puglian market is full of promise, and we’ve found excellent engineers here,” said Kawaguchi. TMEIC aims to reach a revenue target of €300 million from the Bari office by 2030 and plans to hire at least 100 highly skilled professionals in the coming years.
The Polytechnic University of Bari continues to establish itself as a leader in research and innovation in Southern Italy. With over 16 active public-private laboratories in fields such as aerospace, automotive, sensor technology, and digital transformation, the university is also spearheading NEST – Network 4 Energy Sustainable Transition, a major PNRR-funded foundation dedicated to next-gen green technologies.
“Our goal is to be the bridge between research and industry,” stated Rector Cupertino. “This agreement with TMEIC is a concrete example of how we can attract investment, generate high-quality employment, and deepen our commitment to the energy transition.”
TMEIC’s arrival in Bari and its collaboration with the Polytechnic University represent more than a business expansion—they signal a shared vision focused on innovation, sustainability, and talent development. This partnership is a strategic opportunity for the region, its students, and the broader Italian industrial landscape.
