Commerce Japan Office E1761769280793 — (Alabama Department of Commerce)

The Alabama Department of Commerce has announced the opening of a new business development office in Japan.

The department officially opened the new office during the 47th annual Southeast U.S./Japan Association Joint Meeting this week. The goal is to strengthen “the state’s economic relationships with one of its most valued international partners.”

The Tokyo-based office will serve as a direct link between Alabama and Japan, supporting Japanese companies with operations in the state while identifying new opportunities for trade, investment and collaboration.

“This presence on the ground will strengthen our ability to support Japanese companies invested in Alabama while opening new doors for trade and collaboration. For decades, Japan has been one of our most valued partners — and this step ensures that our relationship will continue to grow even stronger in the years ahead.”
Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce

Keep reading to learn more about what the office will do + why Alabama believes it can be an important resource.

‘Building relationships’

The Department of Commerce says Japan has long played a vital role in the state’s economy with around 80 Japanese companies operating in Alabama today.

Since 1999, Japanese companies have invested more than $10 billion in Alabama + created more than 25,000 jobs, according the department.

“This move strengthens Alabama’s global footprint and gives us a direct platform to engage with Japanese companies seeking to grow in the United States. It’s about being present, building relationships face-to-face and ensuring Alabama is top of mind for new investment and trade opportunities.”
Christina Stimpson, Global Business Officer for the Alabama Department of Commerce

The office will be staffed by a Tractus team which will work closely with Department of Commerce to promote Alabama’s advantages as a destination for Japanese investment. It also hopes to help Alabama companies explore export opportunities.

The Tractus team serving Alabama will be led by Hiroyoshi Okayama as project leader, with Dr. Kimihiro Iwao serving as the state’s full-time Japan representative.

A group of Alabama legislators were in Tokyo for the SEUS-Japan meeting and for the opening of the new office.

“Our new Tokyo office will allow Alabama to meet our partners where they are, enhancing collaboration and creating new connections. The relationships we’ve built with Japanese companies over the years are rooted in mutual respect, and this step deepens that partnership in a meaningful, lasting way.”
Sen. Arthur Orr, Chairman of the Senate Finance Taxation and Education Committee

Rep. Andy Whitt, Chairman of the House Economic Development and Tourism Committee, said the Tokyo office will elevate Alabama’s profile in the Japanese business world and position the state to better compete for new investment projects.

“With this new presence in Tokyo, Alabama continues to expand its international network — ensuring the state remains well-positioned for global growth and partnership in the years ahead.”
Rep. Andy Whitt, Chairman of the House Economic Development and Tourism Committee