Indiana Secretary of Commerce Chuck Goodrich will travel to Japan this week as part of Governor Mike Braun’s effort to deepen international business ties and attract new investment to the Hoosier State. The trip follows a recent Midwest‑U.S. Japan Association meeting in Indianapolis that drew roughly 500 participants.
Key meetings and targets
Goodrich’s itinerary includes visits to Tokyo and Nagoya, where he will sit down with executives from Japanese companies that already operate in Indiana, as well as Indiana‑based firms with operations in Japan, such as Eli Lilly and Company. Planned meetings also feature major automotive manufacturers Subaru, Toyota and Honda, and representatives from Aisin Corporation, Toyota Industries, Toyota Tsusho and NTT Data Group.
Japan’s role in Indiana’s economy
According to the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, Japan is the state’s largest source of foreign investment, accounting for more than 27 % of Indiana’s international businesses. The state hosts about 290 Japanese facilities that support nearly 62,000 jobs across 60 counties. Since 2005, Japanese firms have committed over $10 billion in Indiana investments.
Recent Japanese projects in Indiana
Governor Braun highlighted several recent Japanese‑backed projects. Toyota Material Handling North America is constructing a $100 million factory in Columbus, projected to create 140 jobs. Earlier this year Toyota announced a $200 million expansion at its Princeton plant to increase production capacity. Nippon Steel is investing $3.1 billion to modernize the U.S. Steel Gary Works facility.
In addition, Sustainea, a Japanese‑owned sustainability company, plans to launch its first U.S. operation in Indiana, bringing a $400 million investment and an estimated 191 jobs.
Purpose of the trip
The delegation’s focus will be on expanding opportunities in automotive manufacturing, advanced manufacturing and workforce development. State officials say the visit aims to showcase Indiana’s skilled labor pool, robust infrastructure and supportive business climate, reinforcing a partnership that has spanned nearly four decades.
Cost and logistics
The economic development mission is expected to cost up to $25,000, with most expenses covered by existing Indiana Economic Development Foundation funds. Goodrich and his wife will personally cover their own travel‑related costs.
By strengthening ties with Japanese partners, Indiana hopes to sustain and grow the jobs and investment streams that have become a cornerstone of the state’s economy. The trip underscores the Braun administration’s commitment to leveraging global relationships for local prosperity.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
