BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — The flourishing economic relationship between Alabama and Japan is on full display as the Japan-America Society of Alabama (JASA) hosts its 2024 Annual Dinner and Business Forum at the Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa.
Commencing with a formal dinner last night, the event brings together key figures from both Japanese and American companies, as well as government officials, to celebrate and strengthen the dynamic business ties that bind Alabama to Japan.
The dinner’s featured keynote speaker was Camille P. Dawson, Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. Her speech offered insights into Japan’s role in global affairs and the continued importance of U.S.-Japan relations.
During the dinner, six expanding Japanese companies operating in Alabama were recognized for their contributions to the state’s economy:
- Topre America (Cullman)
- Cullman Casting (Cullman)
- MTNA-Rainsville (Rainsville)
- Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama (Huntsville)
- Unipres Alabama (Steele)
- Honda Alabama Auto Plant (Lincoln)
These companies represent a vital cross-section of the automotive and manufacturing industries that are driving economic growth across Alabama. As these companies expand their operations, they contribute not only to Alabama’s economic development but also to job creation and technological advancement.
Since 2015, Japanese companies have announced plans for nearly $5 billion in new capital investment and over 8,000 job commitments, according to data from the Alabama Department of Commerce.
The economic ties between Alabama and Japan are not only strong but foundational to the state’s prosperity, according to Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.
“Japanese companies have been integral to Alabama’s economic success, especially in our automotive and advanced manufacturing sectors,” Secretary McNair said.
“With over 80 Japanese companies operating here, their contributions go beyond investments — they provide high-quality jobs, innovative technologies, and help ensure that Alabama remains a competitive destination for global business,” she added.
The evening also honored the recipient of the organization’s prestigious Samuel Ullman Award: State Rep. Mike Shaw, who co-sponsored and championed the passage of a bill this year that created the Alabama-Japan Legislative Exchange Group in the Alabama House of Representatives.
The group aims “to pursue friendship and cooperation between the members of the House of Representatives and the people, government, and businesses of Japan.”
Business forum
Today’s JASA Business Forum is diving deeper into the intricacies of doing business in Alabama from both Japanese and local perspectives.
Kiyoshi Tanigawa, Executive Director of Keidenran USA in Washington D.C., will provide comments on the business, trade, and cultural relationship between Alabama and Japan.
Other speakers include Hiro Kagohashi, executive vice president of Mazda Toyota Manufacturing in Huntsville, and Mark Moore, general manager of Topre America Corp. in Cullman, who will share their unique insights on fostering successful business operations in Alabama.
David Sides, International Trade Manager at the Alabama Department of Commerce, also provided an overview of the state’s robust Japan-Alabama business relationship, highlighting future opportunities for growth as Alabama continues to attract Japanese investment and develop international trade links.
Marking milestones
Mark Jackson, Honorary Counsel General of Japan (Alabama), said the event marked the 35th anniversary of JASA fostering stronger ties between Japan and Alabama.
It was also chance to highlight milestones reached during 2024, including the growth projects of Japanese companies, the creation of the House Alabama-Japan Legislative Exchange Group and Samford University’s focus on international expansion into Japan, Jackson said. He added that over 50,000 Alabamians have attended Japan-focused events within the state during the first 10 months of 2024.
“Our leaders understand Japan is an important partner to Alabama, and I am happy to work with them as this partnership continues to expand,” Jackson said. “When you consider the economic impact of 80-plus Japanese companies on a state of approximately 5 million people, you understand why Alabama is at the forefront of leading the global economy.
“I take great pride in representing Japan to my home state.”
