North Carolina Governor Josh Stein recently spearheaded a delegation to Tokyo, Japan, forging stronger ties and promoting the state as a leading destination for investment. At the SEUS/Japan Annual Joint Meeting, Stein and the 51-member crew, including Department of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley and EDPNC CEO Christopher Chung, met with Japanese business leaders to deliberate on economic collaboration, as detailed in a statement from the governor's office.
Investments from Japan are a significant source of foreign capital for North Carolina, making this partnership crucial for the local economy. During the Tokyo conference, Stein highlighted the mutual benefits of this relationship stating, "After a productive week, I am optimistic about what North Carolina and Japan will continue to achieve together," as reported by the Governor's Office. Secretary Lilley added that the state's close economic liaison with Japan, is fostering prosperity for families back home.
The trip wasn't just a show and tell affair, Governor Stein also made his way to Taiwan, expanding North Carolina's horizon of international business. He hosted a Business Seminar with notable Taiwanese firms like Everest Textiles and participated in discussions with several high-ranking Taiwanese officials. These dialogues aimed at enhancing both economic and cultural connections between Taiwan and North Carolina. The state already houses regional operations of Taiwanese companies such as Delta Electronics, as noted in the Governor's Office press release.
Back in Japan, the stage was also set for transition, with Governor Stein passing the Southeast U.S./Japan Association's leadership mantle to Tennessee's Governor Bill Lee. Toyota, a key Japanese investor in North Carolina, praised its ongoing collaboration. “We will continue to prioritize this mutually beneficial partnership with the Tar Heel State as we embark on our journey to achieve carbon neutrality and provide mobility for all,” remarked Don Stewart, President of Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina, according to the statements made available by the Governor's Office.
