Birmingham Celebrates Ties Between Alabama and Japan
Birmingham, Alabama—The excitement was palpable at the Japan-America Society of Alabama (JASA) as they held their annual dinner and business forum this past week at the stunning Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa. This year, the event showcased a booming economic relationship between Alabama and Japan, underlining just how vital these connections have become.
Stars of the Evening
The evening kicked off with a formal dinner where key players—from both the Japanese and American business communities along with government officials—came together to celebrate. The keynote speaker for this special evening was none other than Camille Dawson, the deputy assistant secretary for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. Her engaging speech touched on Japan’s significant role in global affairs and reminded everyone of the enduring importance of U.S.-Japan relations.
Honoring Industry Leaders
Among the highlights of the event was the recognition of six expanding Japanese companies operating right here in Alabama. These businesses are a crucial part of the automotive and manufacturing sectors, sectors that are propelling Alabama’s economic growth forward. Their expansions are not only boosting the state’s economy but also creating thousands of jobs and fostering technological advances. Since 2015, Japanese companies have announced a staggering $5 billion in new investments and pledged over 8,000 jobs, according to the Alabama Department of Commerce.
Ellen McNair, the state’s commerce secretary, put it perfectly: “Japanese companies have been integral to Alabama’s economic success, especially in our automotive and advanced manufacturing sectors.” With over 80 Japanese companies operating in the state, it’s clear that their contributions go far beyond just investments—they are enriching the job market and introducing innovative technologies.
A Special Recognition
Adding to the evening’s festivities was the presentation of the Samuel Ullman Award to state Rep. Mike Shaw. Representative Shaw was honored for his hard work in co-sponsoring a bill that resulted in the creation of the Alabama-Japan Legislative Exchange Group this year. The goal of this new initiative? To nurture friendship and cooperation between Alabama’s House of Representatives and Japan’s dynamic communities.
Insightful Discussions
The JASA Business Forum took a deeper dive into the business landscape, featuring comments from key figures like Kiyoshi Tanigawa, the executive director of Keidanren USA. He shared insights into the collaborative potential between Alabama and Japan from commercial and cultural lenses. Other notable speakers included Hiro Kagohashi, from Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, and Mark Moore from Topre America Corp., who provided their unique perspectives on thriving in Alabama’s business environment.
Future Prospects
David Sides, an international trade manager at the Alabama Department of Commerce, highlighted the promising future of the Alabama-Japan relationship. Alabama is continually drawing more Japanese investment and enhancing its international trade connections, which bodes well for the state’s economic growth.
A Milestone to Remember
The evening served as a milestone not only to celebrate ongoing partnerships but also marked the 35th anniversary of JASA’s efforts in fostering ties between Alabama and Japan. Mark Jackson, honorary consul general of Japan in Alabama, mentioned that more than 50,000 Alabamians participated in Japan-focused events throughout 2024. It’s evident that the leaders of Alabama fully recognize the importance of their relationship with Japan.
As Jackson put it, “When you consider the economic impact of over 80 Japanese companies on a state of about 5 million people, it’s clear why Alabama is at the forefront of leading the global economy.” Together, the people of Alabama and Japan continue to forge connections that strengthen both communities, paving the way for future collaborations.
