Japan America Society Annual Dinner 2024
The Japan-America Society of Alabama held its 2024 Annual Dinner and Business Forum in Birmingham, celebrating strong ties between Alabama and Japan. The event recognized six Japanese companies for their contributions to the state’s economy, with investments exceeding $5 billion since 2015 and 8,000 job commitments. Keynote speeches highlighted the importance of U.S.-Japan relations, while the forum provided insights into future business opportunities, showcasing the impact of cultural exchange and cooperation between both regions.
In the charming city of Birmingham, attendees gathered to celebrate the remarkable bond between Alabama and Japan at the highly anticipated 2024 Annual Dinner and Business Forum, hosted by the Japan-America Society of Alabama (JASA). The event took place at the stunning Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa, providing a perfect backdrop for fostering international friendships and collaborations.
The night was particularly special as it recognized the contributions of six Japanese companies that have chosen to expand their operations in Alabama. This recognition reflects not just growth, but a flourishing partnership that has continued to enhance Alabama’s economic landscape.
These honored companies play a pivotal role in sectors such as automotive and manufacturing, which are vital to Alabama’s economic fabric. It’s impressive to note that since 2015, Japanese firms have announced nearly $5 billion in new investments across the state, leading to over 8,000 job commitments. These figures underscore the importance of Japanese businesses in promoting job creation and innovation.
Among the attendees were numerous key figures from Japan and America, along with local and state government officials who came together to highlight the significance of U.S.-Japan relations in a global context. One of the standout moments came from the keynote speech delivered by Camille Dawson, the deputy assistant secretary for the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. Her insights about Japan’s role on the world stage and the collaborative spirit shared between the two nations set a motivational tone for the evening.
The event also paid tribute to the continuous efforts of the JASA, celebrating its 35th anniversary. Over the years, this organization has played a critical part in building lasting ties between Alabama and Japan. With more than 80 Japanese companies currently operating in Alabama, the positive impact on job creation and technology is apparent.
Furthermore, the evening saw State Rep. Mike Shaw honored with the Samuel Ullman Award for his dedication to fostering the Alabama-Japan Legislative Exchange Group. This initiative is designed to enhance friendship and cooperation between the governments and people of both regions, highlighting just how important these connections are.
The JASA event featured a Business Forum that allowed participants to delve into the intricacies of doing business in Alabama, offering perspectives from Japanese companies and local stakeholders alike. Notable speakers included Kiyoshi Tanigawa, who shared valuable insights about trade and cultural ties between Japan and Alabama, alongside industry leaders such as Hiro Kagohashi from Mazda Toyota Manufacturing.
David Sides, from the Alabama Department of Commerce, provided an overview of promising future growth opportunities, highlighting the ongoing potential in the Japan-Alabama business relationship. With so much enthusiasm and collaboration in the air, the outlook is bright!
This year’s milestones included several growth projects from Japanese companies and the efforts of Samford University towards international outreach in Japan. In an exciting statistic, it was noted that over 50,000 Alabamians have participated in Japan-focused events in just the first ten months of 2024, showcasing the interest and investment in this cultural exchange.
Mark Jackson, the honorary consul general of Japan in Alabama, underscored the significant impact of Japanese businesses on a state with approximately 5 million residents. The lasting friendships and bonds formed between Alabama and Japan are vital to the state’s emerging place in the global economy.
All in all, the Annual Dinner and Business Forum not only celebrated past achievements but also paved the way for future mutual benefits between Alabama and Japan. With such a strong foundation already laid, the sky truly is the limit for what’s to come!
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