UPDATE: October 22 at 6:00 p.m.
Governor Greg Gianforte continued his trade mission in Tokyo, promoting Montana’s commodities and industries to Japanese leaders.
Gianforte highlighted Montana’s strong ties with Japan, emphasizing the state’s high-quality wheat, beef and advanced industries. “Japan has long been a critical market for Montana products, and we continue to see strong opportunities,” said Gianforte.
The governor met with the Japan Flour Millers Association, expressing gratitude for their support of Montana wheat. He acknowledged the dedication of Montana’s farmers and ranchers, highlighting the state’s role in global markets.
In the afternoon, Gianforte discussed business opportunities with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), emphasizing Montana’s advancements in quantum technologies. He invited JETRO to Montana, highlighting the state’s innovation ecosystem.
Gianforte also met with beef industry partners, noting Montana’s position as a top beef producer and its significant beef exports to Japan. “Montana has a product that fits your needs,” he said.
UPDATE: October 21 at 4:15 p.m.
Governor Gianforte was joined by members of the executive delegation in paying tribute to the bravery and selfless service of those who served.
During the trade mission, Governor Gianforte laid a wreath at the War Memorial of Korea to honor Montana soldiers who died in the Korean War.
“The War Memorial of Korea stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom and peace,” Governor Gianforte said.
The ceremony in Seoul included a signing in the memorial’s guestbook, a gift exchange and a tour of the indoor exhibition hall.
Governor Gianforte was joined by members of the executive delegation in paying tribute to the bravery and selfless service of those who served.
Governor Greg Gianforte
During the Korean War, 19,915 Montanans served in the military, and 193 lost their lives, the Governor’s Office said in a release. The War Memorial of Korea honors these sacrifices through its Roll of Honor, indoor exhibition halls and outdoor displays.
“I am honored to pay tribute to the Montanans who gave their lives in the Korean War,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Their courage helped defend liberty, preserve the ideals of democracy, and build the enduring friendship between the United States and South Korea.”
UPDATE: October 20 at 3:45 p.m.
Governor Greg Gianforte is currently on a trade mission in South Korea aimed at fostering economic ties and investment opportunities between Montana and South Korea.
Governor Greg Gianforte met with South Korean business leaders and officials to promote Montana’s commodities and industries.
The governor started his day at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, discussing U.S.-Korea relations and Montana’s objectives, including promoting exports of wheat, beef and energy. He also explored opportunities in quantum, photonics and bioscience.
“South Korea is an important partner for Montana, and our delegation is here to build stronger trade relationships while showcasing the innovation, quality, and resources our state has to offer,” Gianforte said in a release.
Gov. Gianforte meeting with Prime Minister Minseok Kim at the Office of the Prime Minister in Seoul, South Korea
Governor’s Office
Gianforte later met with Prime Minister Minseok Kim to discuss economic cooperation. The governor highlighted Montana’s natural resources and potential educational partnerships through the Mansfield Center.
“Montana may be small in population, but we are rich in resources, innovation, and opportunity,” he said.
The visit included a luncheon with major energy companies including NavEnergy, emphasizing Montana’s commitment to responsible mining and secure energy supply.
Montana exported $353 million in goods to South Korea in 2024, including wheat, beef, and energy resources, Gianforte added in the release.
HELENA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte announced he will lead a trade mission to South Korea and Japan, focusing on Montana’s agricultural, manufacturing, photonics and bioscience industries.
The mission, scheduled from October 19 to October 25 aims to strengthen economic ties with these key trading partners. This visit follows a similar mission to Taiwan two years ago.
Gianforte highlighted the strong bond between Montana and these nations, saying, “Montana has shared a strong bond with Japan and South Korea forged through educational exchanges, the trade of our high-quality commodities and our shared respect for history and cultural exchange.”
Montana’s trade relationship with Japan has deep roots, dating back to Ambassador Mike Mansfield’s efforts in 1982, Governor Gianforte said in a release.
Korea and Japan consistently rank among Montana’s top five trading partners, with Korea purchasing over $335 million in goods in 2024 and Japan buying over $265 million.
During the mission, Gianforte will meet with federal leadership and various partners in the region. Mako Sakaguchi, with nearly 25 years of experience, serves as the official representative to the Montana Trade Office in Japan.
ORIGINAL COVERAGE: October 19 at 4:30 p.m.
AloJapan.com