New data highlights potential for deeper Hawaiʻi-Japan economic partnership
Hawai‘i and Japan are looking to expand economic ties in areas ranging from tourism and clean energy to technology, agriculture and workforce development, officials and business leaders said at a public policy forum highlighting newly released economic data.
The State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, in partnership with the Hawaiʻi Institute for Public Affairs and the Japan-America Society of Hawaiʻi, hosted the forum to examine findings from the 2026 Hawaiʻi-Japan Economic Report.
The report is the first comprehensive analysis of the economic relationship between Hawai‘i and Japan since 1998. It examines trade, investment, tourism and economic activity across key sectors, providing an updated look at a relationship that has long played a significant role in Hawai‘i’s economy.
The forum brought together representatives from government, business and community organizations to discuss the data and potential areas for future collaboration.
“Updated data gives us a sharper view of how Hawai‘i and Japan can deepen economic collaboration in the years ahead,” Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism Director James Kunane Tokioka said.
“It also shows where targeted partnerships can create shared value for both economies,” he added.
Panel discussions focused on opportunities in tourism, clean energy, digital and creative industries, sustainable agriculture, and education and workforce development.
Participants also highlighted the role of sister-state and sister-city relationships in supporting economic and cultural ties between Hawai‘i and communities throughout Japan.
Those partnerships can provide a framework for developing business relationships, exchanging ideas, and testing new projects, speakers said.
“The generations-long cultural connection between Hawai‘i and Japan continues to anchor our economic relationship,” said Reyna Kaneko, president of the Japan-America Society of Hawaiʻi.
“That foundation of trust makes it easier for communities and businesses to build meaningful partnerships.”
(THE PRESSER DIDN’T HAVE PICS, JUST VIDEO)
