MONTGOMERY, Alabama — The Alabama Department of Commerce announced today that it has engaged two internationally respected advisory firms to represent the state’s economic development interests in Japan and the Republic of Korea, further strengthening efforts to attract foreign direct investment, expand export opportunities and build enduring business partnerships in key global markets.
Foreign business development offices in Tokyo and Seoul will serve as Alabama’s frontline ambassadors, helping Commerce’s economic development specialists connect with international investors, support Alabama-based exporters and raise the state’s profile as a premier destination for business.
These offices also provide strategic market intelligence and serve as on-the-ground representatives during trade missions and investment outreach.
“Our relationships in Japan and Korea have long been vital to Alabama’s economic growth,” said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.
“With the help of these outstanding partners, we are doubling down on our commitment to strengthening those ties and opening new doors for investment, innovation and job creation in our state.”
In Tokyo, Commerce has selected Tractus to represent Alabama’s interests in the Japanese market. Tractus is a globally recognized advisory firm specializing in foreign direct investment, trade promotion, market entry and site selection strategies.
With over three decades of experience, the firm has advised numerous U.S. states and multinational companies seeking to navigate the Asian business landscape.
The Tractus team serving Alabama will be led by Hiroyoshi Okayama as project leader, with Dr. Kimihiro Iwao serving as the state’s full-time Japan representative.
“Tractus brings deep expertise and a strong track record of success in Asia,” Secretary McNair said. “Their team understands the nuances of the Japanese market, and they’re well positioned to help Alabama engage meaningfully with Japanese companies and drive new investment to our state.”
In Seoul, Commerce has selected Samil PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to serve as Alabama’s business development representative in South Korea. As the country’s largest professional services firm, Samil PwC has over 50 years of experience helping both public and private sector clients achieve their investment and trade goals.
The Samil PwC team will be led by Sean Blakely, an experienced advisor in international business development, with Carol Yelim Choo the state’s full-time Korea representative.
The team will focus on identifying and cultivating Korean inbound investment opportunities, supporting Alabama exporters and trade development efforts and organizing participation in high-level engagements such as trade shows and missions.
“South Korea has long been a strategic partner for Alabama, particularly in advanced manufacturing and automotive,” Secretary McNair added. “With Samil PwC as our representative, we have a strong and trusted ally in the region who will help us deepen those connections and turn opportunity into action.”
Key partnerships
Along with Germany, Japan and South Korea are Alabama’s Top 3 international investment partners.
Since 1999, companies from Japan have invested $10.1 billion in Alabama, while South Korean firms have invested $9.6 billion, according to data from the Alabama Department of Commerce.
The new international offices will complement the Alabama presence established in Stuttgart, Germany in 2019. There, Christoph Dörr serves as the state’s representative to advance Alabama’s long-standing economic development activities across Europe.
Germany companies have invested almost $11 billion in Alabama since 1999, making it the state’s top source of foreign direct investment, according to Commerce data. Other key European investment partners are Sweden, France, Austria and the United Kingdom.
“In today’s economy, a strong global presence is essential,” said Christina Stimpson, Global Business Officer for the Alabama Department of Commerce. “Our international representatives provide critical market insight and help build trusted relationships that translate into real investment and export opportunities for Alabama.”
Hollie Pegg, Assistant Director of the Recruitment and Retention Office, is in charge of Asian strategy for Commerce, while Bob Smith, also an Assistant Director, heads European strategy for the department.
