“Just come to a state where Japanese companies have found success for the last 40 years.” That was Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear’s call to foreign businesses looking to expand in the United States.
In the last two years alone, Kentucky saw an influx of more than $9 billion in investments from, among them, Japan-based Envision AESC for a new, state-of-the-art gigafactory to produce electric vehicle batteries in Bowling Green. It was the second–largest economic development investment in the state.
Kentucky forges long-term partnerships built on trust
“We are grateful for the 40-plus-year relationship,” said Gov. Beshear, who pointed out that Japan remains the Kentucky’s most important partner in terms of long-term foreign direct foreign investment, if you include the manufacturing plant of automotive giant Toyota.
Located in Georgetown, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky opened in 1986 and employs more than 9,000 people. The 36-year-old factory is commonly cited as the best example of a partnership with Japanese business built on trust.
“Once a company locates here, we grow with them for the years and decades,” Gov. Beshear said.
Kentucky — the American home of Japanese companies
Gov. Beshear is very grateful to all the Japanese companies that have established operation in the Kentucky and, as a result, created thousands of jobs in the state and improved the lives of many more local residents.
“Kentucky is a great place to invest in. We’re going to welcome (Japanese investors) with open arms,” said Gov. Beshear, who wants to attract new industries, whether it be electric vehicle parts, “green” aluminum, agritech businesses, or paper recycling mills.
