BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — The enduring partnership between Alabama and Japan took center stage Thursday evening as business leaders, diplomats and community members gathered for the Japan-America Society of Alabama’s 2025 Annual Celebration Dinner at the Renaissance Birmingham Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa.

The event, one of the state’s most anticipated gatherings spotlighting Alabama’s international relationships, featured a keynote address from His Excellency Shigeo Yamada, Ambassador of Japan to the United States, with an introduction by Dr. Joshua Walker, President and CEO of the Japan Society.

“The partnership between Japan and Alabama is built on shared values, trust and the warmth of its people,” Ambassador Yamada said. “From business and education to cultural exchange, our ties continue to deepen thanks to the dedication of communities like the Japan-America Society of Alabama.

“I was deeply inspired by the spirit of friendship and collaboration I witnessed during my visit, and I am confident that our relationship will continue to flourish for generations to come,” he added.

Kenichi Matsuda, Consul General of Japan in Atlanta, also attended the JASA dinner as part of his first official visit to Alabama.

“Alabama embodies the true spirit of ‘Southern hospitality’ and strong partnership with Japan,” General Consul Matsuda said. “From the historic investments of Japanese companies to the opening of Alabama’s Tokyo Office, our connection is vibrant and ever-growing.

“The Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta looks forward to continuing to support and celebrate this enduring friendship.”

Commercial ties between Alabama and Japan reflect the strength and vitality of the partnership, with two-way trade exceeding $2.8 billion in 2024, a 16% increase since 2022, according to data from the Alabama Department of Commerce.

In addition, Alabama is home to scores of Japan-based companies, including major manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda, Mazda and Daikin. Over the past decade, foreign direct investment from Japan has topped $5 billion, driving job creation and innovation across the state, Commerce data show.

“Japan is one of Alabama’s most valued economic partners, but our connection extends well beyond business,” said Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce. “The friendships, trust and mutual respect we’ve built over decades have created a foundation for growth — one that strengthens our communities and our state’s global reach. We’re honored to celebrate that bond alongside our Japanese partners tonight.”

At the dinner, JASA honored five Japanese companies that launched Alabama expansion projects valued at a combined $306 million during 2024. Morioku Technology, Pharmavite, Plasmine Technology, Toyota and TSTECH are combining to create an estimated 360 jobs.

During the dinner, JASA also presented its prestigious Samuel Ullman Award to Greg Canfield, Managing Director of Economic Development at Birmingham law firm Burr & Forman and the former Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce.

As Commerce Secretary, Canfield made numerous visits to Japan and worked with many Japanese companies launching high-profile investment projects in the state.

Forging bonds

The celebration of the partnership continues today with the JASA Business Forum, which explores the theme “The Alabama Sports Economy and the Alabama/Japan Relationship.”

The program featured a diverse lineup of speakers offering unique perspectives on how sports bridge cultures and drive community engagement, including:

• Kota Kiriyama, professional bass fisherman and entrepreneur
• Morris Morioka, Senior Manager of Promotions and Entertainment for the Rocket City Trash Pandas
• Kevin Orr, former coach of the Japan Wheelchair Rugby Team (2017–2023)
• Kojiro Sampei, Chief Financial and Administrative Officer for Mizuno USA

“This year’s celebration highlights the depth of our partnership — in business, in education and in culture,” said Mark Jackson, Honorary Consul General of Japan.

“Japan’s investments have helped shape Alabama’s modern economy, and our shared experiences continue to bring people together in ways that strengthen understanding and opportunity on both sides of the Pacific.”

Jackson also served as JASA’s President until Thursday night when the position transitioned to Carolyn Turner, Assistant Director and International Trade Specialist at the Alabama International Trade Center at the University of Alabama.

“I am honored to serve as president of JASA and to be part of the enduring partnership between Alabama and Japan,” Turner said. “Together, we are not only building a solid foundation for prosperity — we are forging bonds that will shape a brighter tomorrow for both our regions.”

Founded in 1989, the Japan-America Society of Alabama (JASA) plays a vital role in promoting friendship, education and collaboration between the people of Japan and Alabama. Through events like the Annual Celebration Dinner, the organization continues to cultivate goodwill and highlight the global connections that define the state’s economy today