News Summary
Arizona has inaugurated a new trade and investment office in Tokyo, Japan, aimed at enhancing economic ties and attracting foreign investment. This office, part of the Arizona Commerce Authority, is Arizona’s third in Asia and will focus on facilitating collaborations in high-tech sectors. With trade relations reaching $3.7 billion, the office is poised to create growth opportunities for Arizona-based businesses. The initiative signals a commitment to international commerce, innovation, and technology, with Governor Katie Hobbs highlighting its potential for economic expansion.
Arizona has opened a new trade and investment office in Tokyo, Japan, aimed at boosting economic cooperation and attracting foreign direct investment. This strategic move is anticipated to enhance existing economic ties between the state and one of its largest trading partners, Japan.
The newly inaugurated office is a part of the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) and represents Arizona’s third trade office in Asia, adding to those already established in Taiwan and the Republic of Korea. This initiative underscores Arizona’s commitment to fostering international commerce and economic development across global markets.
With the expectation to create growth opportunities for Arizona-based businesses, the Tokyo office will aim to facilitate collaborations primarily in high-tech sectors. Arizona is home to prominent corporations with substantial operations throughout Asia, including Fujifilm, Toyota Motors North America, JX Advanced Metals, NRS Logistics America, Pentagon Technologies, and Komatsu.
Trade relations between Arizona and Japan reached an all-time high in 2024, culminating in a remarkable $3.7 billion in trade. This figure reflects the growing economic interdependence and provides a strong foundation for the office’s activities.
Leading the new Arizona Trade and Investment Office in Japan is Tsutomu “Tom” Hashimoto, who brings over forty years of extensive business experience to the role. His background includes over thirty years with Sumitomo Corporation, a major player in international commerce.
Governor Katie Hobbs emphasized that the establishment of the Tokyo office paves the way for more robust collaboration, particularly in the key areas of innovation and technology. By engaging with Japanese businesses, Arizona aims to expand its economic footprint and tap into new market potentials.
The Arizona Commerce Authority oversees several trade functions worldwide, with additional offices in Mexico, Canada, Europe, and Israel. This extensive network is designed to promote Arizona’s competitive advantages and attract international investments across diverse sectors.
The office signifies an important step for Arizona in strengthening existing partnerships while exploring new avenues for economic growth. As international trade dynamics continue to evolve, Arizona’s proactive approach toward global engagement is poised to yield positive results.
With the establishment of the Tokyo office, Arizona is better positioned than ever to leverage its existing relationships, bolster its technology sectors, and catalyze foreign investment opportunities. The opening of this office further exemplifies Arizona’s strategy to enhance its economic landscape through international collaboration and investment.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Arizona Family
- Wikipedia: Trade policy of Japan
- CNN
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Economic development
- Reuters
- Google Search: Economic growth in Japan
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
