Building Bridges Across the Pacific

Gov. JB Pritzker is taking Illinois' marketing efforts to new heights by embarking on a trade mission to Japan, accompanied by a diverse group of lawmakers, business leaders, and community representatives. This trip marks an exciting chapter in the state's efforts to strengthen ties with one of its largest export markets and sixth-largest import market. By fostering partnerships and building relationships with foreign-owned companies, Pritzker aims to position Illinois as a prime destination for businesses looking to invest or expand operations. One notable aspect of this mission is its focus on cutting-edge industries like quantum technology, clean energy, and manufacturing. These sectors are crucial to Illinois' economic future, and the governor's office is committed to exploring new opportunities for growth and collaboration with Japanese companies. The delegation will meet with key counterparts in Tokyo to discuss potential partnerships and explore ways to drive innovation and job creation. While trade missions can be challenging to measure, they do offer valuable benefits. By engaging directly with foreign-owned businesses, Illinois can build trust and establish a strong foundation for future collaborations. For instance, Pritzker's office has successfully secured funding for infrastructure projects by working closely with German companies like Wieland, which operates in the state. In contrast, some trade missions may not yield concrete results. The recent trip to Canada, for example, saw Pritzker sign a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening trade ties between Illinois and Ontario. However, the specifics of this agreement remain unclear, leaving room for future development. Illinois' strong economic relationship with Japan is evident in its export-import rankings. As the eighth-largest export market and sixth-largest import market, Japan presents a significant opportunity for Illinois businesses to tap into new markets and partnerships. Among the delegation members traveling to Japan are prominent business leaders, lawmakers, and community representatives from across the state. This diverse group reflects Pritzker's commitment to building bridges between different sectors of Illinois' economy. Some notable attendees include Curt Bailey, CEO of Related Midwest, which is developing a new White Sox stadium on The 78 parcel; Christy George, former executive director of the Chicago 2024 Host Committee and newly appointed president and CEO of Intersect Illinois; Mark Denzler, president and CEO of the Illinois Manufacturers' Association; and Christian Mitchell, a former deputy governor now working as vice president of civic engagement at the University of Chicago. Other notable international work trips include Mayor Brandon Johnson's upcoming visit to London, which aims to capitalize on the global attention generated by the Bears' recent game in the city.