CHICAGO, Ill. (WTVO) — Illinois is sending a delegation of representatives to Tokyo to pursue strengthening economic ties with Japan.
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and the Illinois Economic Development Corporation will lead the delegation, which also consists of public sector, education, and economic development leaders.
Nine other Midwestern states and 100 Japanese corporations will travel to the Midwest U.S.-Japan Association’s 55th Conference, which previously met in Columbus, Ohio, in 2024.
“As Governor, I’ve remained committed to strengthening Illinois’ economic relationship with Japan, from securing business expansions on trade missions to highlighting our state’s unmatched workforce, infrastructure and location,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I look forward to Team Illinois’ return to Japan as they continue this collaborative work and grow our relationships with international businesses.”
Japan is one of Illinois’ most important global economic partners, according to the Governor’s Office. In 2024, Illinois exported $2.5 billion in goods to Japan, making it the state’s 9th largest export market. Imports from Japan totaled $7 billion, making it the 6th largest source of imported goods to Illinois.
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