Missouri Partnership CEO to Join Governor Mike Parson on Trade Mission to Japan
- October 03, 2023
In an effort to grow and strengthen Missouri’s foreign trade relationship with Japan, a delegation of Missouri leaders and economic development representatives are heading to Japan in the coming days, including Missouri Governor Mike Parson and Missouri Partnership CEO Subash Alias.
Trade missions play a vital role in economic development by promoting international trade, attracting foreign investment, fostering economic growth, and strengthening diplomatic relations between countries. The goal of this trade mission is to promote Missouri as a prime business location and strengthen Missouri and Japan’s trading relationship of more than $700 million a year.
“I am looking forward to meeting with key business leaders in Japan as we continue to highlight Missouri on an international stage,” said Subash Alias, CEO of Missouri Partnership. “Foreign direct investment (FDI) is critical to bringing new opportunities to the state, and Japanese companies play a significant role in our state’s economy. It is an honor to join Governor Parson on this trade mission that will strengthen Missouri and Japan’s relationship.”
The delegation plans to meet with several leading companies, including Hitachi, Kawasaki, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Nidec, Panasonic, Toyoda Gosei (TG Missouri), and ZEN-NOH.
Missouri’s Exports to Japan
In 2022, Missouri exported nearly $400 million in goods to Japan including processed foods, chemicals, computer and electronics products, machinery, and more.
Missouri’s Imports from Japan
In a nearly even trade, just over $400 million in machinery, fabricated metal products, chemicals, and transportation equipment were exported to Missouri from Japan in 2022.
Investing in Japan and Missouri
There are currently 70 Japanese companies with a presence in Missouri including Daikin, Kawasaki, and Panasonic, as well as 14 Missouri companies with operations in Japan such as Belden, Enterprise Holdings, Baldwin, and more. These investments create jobs and opportunities to build stronger Missouri and Japanese communities.
Japanese businesses that have selected Missouri as a business expansion location recognize the benefits of the state’s strategic location at the heart of North America, low business costs, and highly-skilled workforce.
About Missouri Partnership
Missouri Partnership is a public-private economic development organization focused on attracting new jobs and investment to the state and promoting Missouri’s business strengths. World-class manufacturing, distribution, R&D, and corporate services companies choose Missouri for its highly-skilled talent, vibrant communities, central location, and favorable business climate. Learn more about Missouri Partnership’s business expansion and relocation services here.