The Japan economy has suffered over the past few years, first from a protracted stagnation and then from a devastating earthquake and tsunami in March 2011.
Still, the yen strengthened against the dollar as capital fled to Japan’s perceived stability amid the euro’s woes and U.S. uncertainty.
With operations more expensive at home, Japanese companies looked outward, creating a beneficial scenario for Georgia, which already had attracted more than 300 Japanese companies, said Yumiko Nakazono, managing director of the state’s office in Japan.
The exchange motivation has eroded a bit since new Prime Minister Shinzo Abe took office, but Georgia is still seen as a key entry point for the U.S. market, Ms. Nakazono told Global Atlanta while visiting Atlanta for the annual convention of the state’s overseas representatives.
And that’s not only for new arrivals like Calpis America Inc., which aims to build a $20 million factory making animal feed additives in Peachtree City. Kubota Tractor Corp. is spending $73 million expanding its manufacturing complex in Jefferson and will hold a grand opening April 8 that Ms. Nakazono will attend.
The state’s Japan office has seen its share of similar milestones since its opening 40 years ago. Ms. Nakazono will host receptions in both Atlanta and Tokyo to celebrate the anniversary, inviting existing investors and prospects to deepen their ties with these state.
Click here to learn more about the state’s international representatives or to contact the Japan office.
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