EDB leads trade mission to Japan
Japan is the largest foreign investor in the U.S., and Tacoma-Pierce County is home to several U.S. subsidiaries that have collectively invested more than $550 million in capital expenditures over the last decade.
Building on the spirit of cooperation between the two countries, the Economic Development Board for Tacoma-Pierce County led a trade and investment mission in October to visit several Tokyo-based aerospace, manufacturing and gaming firms. The delegation included Steve Hobbs, Washington Secretary of State; Maddie Merton, EDB Vice President for Business Retention and Expansion; Michael Fowler, Executive Director of World Trade Center Tacoma; and Stephanie Prentice, Community Engagement Officer, Office of the Washington Secretary of State.
Over a week, the delegation met with high-ranking government leaders and business executives to promote Pierce County and Washington’s economic relations.
“It was my honor to join our wonderful delegation members to recognize and celebrate the deep ties and mutual prosperity that businesses in Washington and Japan have developed,” Secretary of State Hobbs said. “Our rich partnership is built on cultures of innovation. As Washington’s Secretary of State, it is my privilege to make connections and help them flourish.”
Strengthening ties, building relationships
The mission included visits with the following aerospace companies that have a presence in Pierce County:
Additional meetings were held with:
- S. Embassy & Consulates in Japan
- Port of Tokyo
- Wizards of the Coast
- Game Market
- Japan Card Products Ltd.
“Japanese firms are looking for foreign growth and expansion opportunities, and Tacoma-Pierce County has a track record of success.” Merton said. “There is a real opportunity to work with these firms to encourage additional expansion in the U.S. market.”
Following the trade mission, the EDB and its partners are working on several follow-up items, including assistance for an expansion request.