North Carolina Governor Josh Stein is leading a multi-state delegation at the Southeast United States (SEUS)/Japan Annual Joint Meeting in Tokyo this week. He is joined by Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley and Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina (EDPNC) CEO Christopher Chung. The group aims to promote North Carolina as a leading destination for investment and business partnerships with Japan.
Governor Stein highlighted the importance of the relationship between Japan and North Carolina, stating, “Japan and North Carolina have a truly special partnership. More than 36,000 North Carolinians wake up every morning and go to work for a Japanese company – and many more benefit from our years of cultural and academic collaboration. From electric vehicles to aerospace, from advanced manufacturing to biotech, Japan and North Carolina are innovating for the future. I look forward to spending this week building on our key relationships and showcasing all that our state has to offer. North Carolina is open for business, and I intend to make sure the world knows it.”
Secretary Lilley emphasized the state’s position in global business: “In the global economy, North Carolina truly stands out as the Top State for Business. We are fortunate to have one of the strongest workforces in the country, and our delegation looks forward to highlighting at SEUS how North Carolina is an ideal partner for Japanese companies in innovating for the future.”
Christopher Chung noted Japan’s longstanding economic role in the state: “Over the past half-century, Japan has been and remains one of the most important economic partners for North Carolina, with strong ties across investment, trade, tourism, education, and cultural exchange. This week, we will deepen our state’s connections with Japan in ways that mutually advance our competitiveness in the global economy.”
Japan remains the top source of foreign direct investment in North Carolina when considering both capital investment and job creation. This year’s meeting marks the largest contingent ever sent by North Carolina to SEUS/Japan events.
North Carolina has played a significant role within SEUS/Japan Association since becoming a charter member in 1976. Last year’s conference was hosted by Charlotte as part of its responsibilities as current host state. At this year’s event conclusion, Governor Stein will pass leadership duties to Tennessee Governor Bill Lee.
The state established its first business office in Tokyo in 1978; it continues operations there today. In another sign of close relations, last year then-Prime Minister Fumio Kishida became the first foreign head of state recorded visiting North Carolina’s Executive Mansion.
Recent investments from Japanese companies include new facilities from Fujifilm Biotechnologies, Toyota’s first North American battery plant, and a healthcare company establishing its first manufacturing center of excellence in Pitt County.
