2025年12月2日

Ladies and gentlemen, thank you very much for joining us today.
It is a great honor to have the opportunity to speak at the “U.S.–Japan Initiative” hosted by the Asia Society Southern California. I am Tatsuo Yasunaga, Chair of Mitsui & Co., and I’m also Chairman of the Japan Foreign Trade Council.

First of all, I would like to express my gratitude to everyone at the Asia Society Southern California for your efforts in fostering mutual understanding and trust between Japan and the United States.

The Japan Foreign Trade Council is an industry body representing Japan’s leading “Sogo shosha” (general trading companies). Our mission is to promote free, fair, and sustainable trade, and investment, which is not merely transactions of goods or capital – they represent something firmly built on trust, shared values, and long-term partnerships. In particular, the cooperation between Japan and the United States forms the cornerstone of stability and growth in the Asia-Pacific region.

Both countries have long championed open markets, democratic governance, and the rule of law, contributing to economic revitalization, innovation, and the creation of opportunities across the Indo-Pacific.

Today, the world is undergoing profound changes – geopolitical uncertainty, demographic shifts, and the transition to digital and green economies. In this context, Japan’s role as a “connector” and “stabilizer” in advancing resilient supply chains, sustainable finance, and inclusive growth is more critical than ever.

Japan is now the largest investor in the United States, with direct investment exceeding $819 billion. Japanese companies, including trading houses, have made significant contributions to U.S. economic growth and job creation.

Following President Trump’s recent visit to Japan, the U.S.–Japan alliance has grown even stronger. The two countries agreed on a new investment framework worth up to $550 billion. What matters most is that this investment will not only support U.S. industrial revitalization but also create a truly “win-win” relationship for both nations.

The United States, like Japan, faces challenges such as limited human resources in some industrial domains. This is why collaboration among Japan, the U.S., and the Asia in industrial sectors is essential – to build cross-border talent pipelines and resilient supply chains. Such efforts will accelerate U.S. industrial renewal and innovation while creating new opportunities for Japan and Asia.

As competition intensifies in strategic industries related to economic security, Japan’s strong spirit of craftsmanship and manufacturing excellence remains a source of strength. In an era of digitalization and AI, investment in on-site improvements, skills transfer, and human capital development is indispensable.

“Sogo shosha”, or general trading companies have evolved beyond traditional intermediaries to become platforms that connect industries, talent, information, and technology through its marketing and investment initiatives. By working with diverse partners, we create new value and support sustainable growth and innovation across Japan, the U.S., and the entire Asia-Pacific region.

At the Japan Foreign Trade Council, we are advancing frameworks for cooperation in strategic areas such as energy transition, advanced manufacturing, and space technology, while promoting corporate strategies for carbon neutrality and a circular economy. Equally important is nurturing human connections – future entrepreneurs, engineers, and innovators.

Regional cooperation is also vital. Through frameworks such as QUAD, and APEC, Japan works closely with the U.S. and partner nations to strengthen economic security and innovation-driven growth. These efforts require close collaboration with the private sector and institutions like the Asia Society. I would like to express my deep appreciation to all of you who serve as bridges between U.S. and Asian businesses.

In closing, allow me to express my sincere hope that, together – Japan, the United States, and our partners across Asia - we will build a sustainable and vibrant future.
Thank you very much for your kind attention, and I wish you great success with today’s program.