Critical tech investments – Japan-Indiana innovation conference set
INDIANAPOLIS – New trends and highs in the Japan stock market, a strong 4th quarter capex, and new developments in semiconductor manufacturing today vault Japan industry and business to recent heights of interest. This is particularly true in Indiana, where the highest level of Japanese foreign direct investment (FDI) per capita remains focused in the Hoosier state as Japan corporations continue to find Indiana the best new home for expanding their businesses. On March 19, top Indiana business and Japanese leadership will highlight current trends of mutual interest in business, industry, trade and technology at the Japan Currents – Indiana the Intersection of Investment and Innovation symposium here.
Innovative technologies, updates on industry trends, new energies, and geopolitical considerations for the Japan-U.S. alliance will serve as the focus for the 2024 Japan-America Society of Indiana (JASI) signature event. Executive leadership from the Japanese Consulate (Chicago), the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) will join senior business leaders from Cummins, Subaru, and other Japan businesses.
“We have an excellent lineup of speakers and are looking forward to insightful presentations from Tony Satterthwaite, Senior Vice President of Cummins, Scott Brand, President and COO of Subaru of Indiana Automotive, the Honorable Jun Yanagi, Consul-General of Japan in Chicago; Hiroyuki Nemoto, Chief Executive Director, JETRO Chicago, and Tony Denhart, Executive Vice President of Workforce and Talent, Indiana Economic Development Corporation,” said Theresa Kulczak, JASI Executive Director. “For those interested in Japan innovation and networking, this afternoon truly represents a ‘can’t-miss’ event.”
The afternoon symposium will also feature special remarks by Col. Van T, Thai, the newly appointed Commander of the 434th Air Refueling Wing at Grissom Air Reserve Base, Indiana. Colonel Thai will speak on issues related to the U.S.-Japan security alliance. The Colonel most recently served as the U.S. Director of Operations and Exercise at Yokota Air Base, Japan.
Panel presentations will showcase Japan-invested businesses and joint-ventures which are bringing forward exciting innovations. Panelists will include Kazumi Kikuchi, President, North America, Idemitsu Lubricants America; Tatsuya Inoue, General Manager, Metals Company, Mitsubishi Materials Corporation; Stefan Boel, CEO, Exurban; and Kent Anderson, General Manager & Special Advisor, Yajima USA.
The Japan Currents Symposium draws business, community, government, and economic development leaders from throughout the state and the Midwest region. The March 19 conference is presented by the Japan-America Society of Indiana in partnership with the National Association of Japan-America Societies and the Embassy of Japan.
For more information (and to register), please visit https://www.japanindiana.org/english/program/2024/03192024_JapanCurrentsSymposium.html
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About the Japan-America Society of Indiana (JASI)
The Japan-America Society of Indiana (JASI) is a not-for-profit cultural and educational organization whose mission is to serve as a bridge of friendship between the people of Indiana and Japan through the promotion of cultural understanding and economic partnerships. The Society is supported by a statewide membership of businesses, communities, academic institutions, families, and individuals.
JASI sponsors a wide range of cultural events, networking receptions, public affairs programs and business briefings that explore current issues in the Japan-U.S. relationship. JASI’s outreach programs provide Indiana communities and youth throughout the state with educational experiences of Japanese culture. The JASI Japan Culture Center and its bilingual staff serve as an information resource.
The Japan-America Society of Indiana is a member of the National Association of Japan-America Societies, headquartered in Washington D.C., which includes over forty societies nationwide. For more information, please visit: https://www.japanindiana.org/english/index.html
Media inquiries – contact Michael Snyder, MEK (317-805-4870)