- State leadership to visit companies across Taiwan, South Korea and Japan, announce first international office in Taiwan
- Visit marks Gov. Lee’s second trip to Asia and includes attending 47th SEUS-Japan Annual Meeting in Tokyo
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and Deputy Governor and Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter will travel to Asia next week for a strategic international recruiting trip.
The upcoming trip marks Gov. Lee’s sixth international recruitment trip since taking office in 2019 and comprises travel to three countries: Taiwan, South Korea and Japan. Gov. Lee and the Deputy Governor’s itinerary includes a host of prospective meetings as well as several customer service-related meetings with existing Tennessee-based companies, including Quanta Manufacturing, Hyosung HICO, LG Chem, Bridgestone and SK ON.
“Tennessee is a global leader for its pro-business climate, low taxes and highly skilled workforce, and we’re proud to showcase what makes our state a top destination for industry and innovation,” said Gov. Lee. “As states across the nation compete for world-class companies, it’s our responsibility to cultivate strong international relationships and strategic partnerships that demonstrate Tennessee’s unwavering commitment to expanding opportunity and prosperity for Tennesseans.”
The state currently operates five foreign direct investment (FDI) offices based in key countries across Europe and Asia. Their local presence strengthens relationships and builds trust with global companies through direct in-market engagement. In order to continue building new partnerships abroad with countries that are driving innovation, during the trip, Tennessee will announce the creation of its first FDI office in Taiwan, marking the state’s sixth international office.
“Combined, companies across Taiwan, South Korea and Japan employ more than 60,000 Tennesseans, which we believe is a clear reflection of our state’s long-standing commitment to building strong international relationships,” said Deputy Gov. McWhorter. “At TNECD, supporting our global partners is central to our mission in recruiting additional investment and job creation in Tennessee. I look forward to strengthening and building upon our existing partnerships over the course of next week’s visit, which will, in turn, expand opportunity for continued collaboration and growth.”
Gov. Lee and Deputy Gov. McWhorter will also attend the 47th SEUS-Japan Annual Meeting while in Tokyo. The meeting is a prestigious gathering of global business leaders celebrating longstanding economic and cultural ties. The strong and enduring partnership between Tennessee and Japan continues to deepen and is reflected in the many business successes and cultural connections we share. This annual meeting provides an opportunity to celebrate those achievements, strengthen long-standing relationships and forge new connections – not only with Japan, but also among the seven southeastern U.S. member states.
In 2026, Tennessee will host the 48th SEUS-Japan Annual Meeting, which returns to the state every 14 years.
Tennessee’s longstanding international success dates back decades, and the partnerships formed are a true testament to the profound leadership the state has seen.
Current Foreign Direct Investment from Japan
- $20,798,640,236 Capital Investment by Japanese Companies
- 49,917 Tennesseans employed by Japan-owned businesses
- 207 Japanese-owned establishments in Tennessee
Current Foreign Direct Investment from Taiwan
- $158,717,040 Capital Investment by Taiwanese Companies
- 861 Tennesseans employed by Taiwanese-owned businesses
- 9 Taiwanese-owned establishments in Tennessee
Current Foreign Direct Investment from South Korea
- $6,035,552,409 Capital Investment by South Korean Companies
- 4,595 Tennesseans employed by South Korean-owned businesses
- 24 South Korean-owned establishments in Tennessee
For more details about Tennessee’s international achievements or industry breakdowns, visit here.
About the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD)
TNECD is the state’s primary agency committed to fostering economic growth through job creation and community development. By attracting new corporate investment and facilitating the growth of existing businesses, the department works to strengthen Tennessee’s competitive landscape. Additionally, TNECD strives to increase the economic prosperity for all Tennesseans by providing grants to communities statewide, helping them to become vibrant, business-friendly environments where companies can flourish. For more information, visit us at tnecd.com. Join the conversation on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.
Media Contact
Chris O’Brien
Public Information Officer
(615) 934-5879
[email protected]
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