Japan is investing $550 billion in the U.S., and Wisconsin is trying to get a piece of the pie.
The Wisconsin-Japan Strategic Partnership formed late last year. Chaired by former Gov. Tommy Thompson, it aims to attract Japanese investment in Wisconsin’s advanced manufacturing, critical minerals and metals extraction, energy, pharmaceuticals/medical products and shipbuilding sectors.
“This is a very unique and golden opportunity for our country, and we don’t want Wisconsin to be left out,” Thompson said in a statement. “Kikkoman opened the door more than 50 years ago with its soy sauce plant in Walworth County. They liked Wisconsin so much that they are now investing north of $800 million in a new facility in Jefferson County, along with major additions to the original plant.”
Other Japanese investments in Wisconsin include Asahi Brewing in Waunakee, which purchased Octopi Brewing; FUJIFILM in Madison and Yaskawa Electric Corporation in Franklin.
WJSIP includes Foley & Lardner, the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce, Japan America Society of Wisconsin, Metropolitan Milwaukee Chamber of Commerce, Michael Best & Friedrich, Michael Best Strategies, Milwaukee 7, Thrive, Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce and the Wisconsin Technology Council.
“WJSIP will be an information conduit for prospective investees,” Kurt R. Bauer, president and CEO of WMC, said in a statement.
Bauer said WJSIP will host an informational webinar on Jan. 23, with more details incoming.
