A Washington state delegation traveled to Japan to promote aerospace, investment, agriculture and the state’s creative economy. Boeing has more than 65,000 teammates and is actively hiring to support future rate increases and the new 737 production line in Everett, Wash.
The delegation included leaders from the Seattle Seahawks, World Trade Center Tacoma, Economic Alliance Snohomish County, Clallam Economic Development Council and The RJ Group.
Why it matters: The mission aimed to strengthen business ties that can support jobs, trade and growth in Washington and Japan.
Driving the news: The delegation visited Japanese heavy industries MHI, KHI, and Subaru to discuss partnership opportunities, while U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass hosted a reception at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. The delegation’s goals included:
- Strengthening the state's aerospace business and relationships with Japanese industry partners
- Elevating Washington state’s creative economy by showcasing ten local game companies at Game Market Japan
- Expanding the market for Washington state agriculture, including cherries, shellfish and wine; and
- Growing Washington state’s profile as a global trade and innovation hub
The big picture: Washington and Japan already have a deep economic relationship.
- Two-way trade totals $11 billion annually.
- The two places have 39 sister city relationships.
- Japan ranks in the top three for Washington state’s trade partners.
Zoom in: The delegation also highlighted Washington’s aerospace strength.
- The state has more than 1,350 aerospace companies.
- It has 132,500-plus engineering and manufacturing workers.
- It builds 95% of U.S. commercial aircraft.
- More than 50% of low Earth orbit satellites are built in Washington.
Go deeper: Eric John, CVP Japan, said the mission was about practical results and long-term value.
“The purpose of this mission is straightforward: to build on past success, advance practical collaboration, and secure lasting benefits for our respective communities. This delegation exemplifies that cooperation: it’s not a one way street. Japanese missions create jobs in Washington, and Washington state missions create jobs in Japan.”
The bottom line: The trip centered on strengthening long-standing ties between Washington state and Japan across aviation, trade and investment.