Sharing many common traits, among them a fondness for golf and warm hospitality, Kazuyuki Takeuchi, the Consul General of Japan in Atlanta, believes that Japan and states in the southeastern US can benefit from each other, whether it be in business or outside business.
Takeuchi emphasized that, aside from being ideal locations to live, the Southeastern states, like Georgia, have business-friendly climates and is promoting new industries, such as e-sports and film. Japanese investment has also grown consistently in the neighboring states of Alabama, North Carolina and South Carolina, as well.
Among the newest investors in Georgia include Japan-based YKK Group, the world’s largest manufacturer of zippers and other fastening products. Meanwhile, heavy equipment maker Kubota Corp. announced plans to open a new plant in Georgia to meet the increasing demand for tractors in North America.
“More than half of their equipment is sold in the United States,” said Takeuchi, who pointed out that the investments from YKK Group and Kubota Corporation will generate new jobs for local residents.
Immortalizing long-lasting friendships and partnerships
Just this September, Georgia hosted the 35th edition of JapanFest Atlanta. The two-day event, which aims to share the richness of Japanese culture with Georgians, attracted more than 20,000 people. It was organized by the Japan-America Society of Georgia and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Georgia, and supported by the Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta.
To celebrate the long friendship between Japan and Georgia, the Japan-America Society of Georgia, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Georgia, the Consulate General of Japan in Atlanta, and JETRO Atlanta are working to complete the Peace Bell Tower at The Carter Center.
The project will also highlight the various contributions of Japanese-affiliated organizations in Georgia to enrich relations between Japan and Georgia in the fields of culture, economy, and education.
