As the City of Cedar Park’s economic development team prepares for its upcoming economic development mission to Tokyo from March 28-April 2, 2026, city representatives tell GMI POST they have one clear message for partners in Japan: Cedar Park is the premier destination for businesses looking to expand into the United States.
Arthur Jackson, Chief Economic Development Officer, explains how Cedar Park is aligning global partnerships with its economic momentum — and why the city is a strong fit for Japanese companies seeking a high-growth, business-friendly environment that supports long-term investment and innovation.
Why is Cedar Park focusing on Japan right now?
Cedar Park’s upcoming trip to Japan is part of a broader strategy to strengthen long-term relationships with one of Texas’ most important investment partners.
“We are intentional about building those relationships and maintaining strong connections internationally, especially with Japan,” Jackson said, emphasizing the importance of fostering mutual understanding, collaboration, and long-term partnerships between the two markets.
According to the Office of the Governor of Texas, Japanese companies invested more than $10.87 billion across 129 projects in the past decade, creating over 20,000 jobs. Today, more than 400 Japanese companies operate in Texas, including major firms such as Toyota and Mitsubishi.
Jackson says Cedar Park EDC is focused on creating better and more accessible pathways for Japanese companies seeking to establish a U.S. presence through headquarters, regional offices, or manufacturing facilities.
What makes Cedar Park attractive for Japanese and international companies?
Location and flexibility are key advantages. Situated within the North Austin innovation corridor, Cedar Park provides access to one of the fastest-growing tech ecosystems in the U.S., while maintaining the agility of a smaller city.
“Cedar Park offers the best of both worlds — connectivity to Austin and the ability to move quickly at the local level,” Jackson said.
This allows companies to scale efficiently without the constraints often found in larger metropolitan areas.
How strong is Cedar Park’s economic foundation?
The city has grown by more than 44% over the past decade, reflecting sustained demand from both businesses and talent.
A recent nationwide analysis of small cities ranked Cedar Park 22nd out of nearly 300 communities for career advancement, highlighting strong income levels, employment conditions, and overall economic activity.
This growth is supported by a highly educated workforce and proximity to major universities, enabling companies to recruit and retain talent across key industries.
“Companies are choosing Cedar Park because they can find and retain the workforce they need to grow,” Jackson explained.
What industries are being targeted for Japanese investment?
Cedar Park is taking an industry-led approach, focusing on sectors where global demand is accelerating. These include advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and clean technology—areas that align with both U.S. growth priorities and Japanese investment trends.
The city is also building on relationships with Japanese companies already operating in the region, with further engagement planned during the Tokyo visit.
What’s next for Cedar Park?
Looking ahead, Cedar Park is focused on sustainable, long-term growth. Rather than prioritizing short-term wins, the city is developing an ecosystem that supports innovation, workforce development, and international investment.
As Cedar Park continues to expand its global reach, its strategy remains clear: build strong partnerships, invest in talent, and position itself as a city where innovation and opportunity can thrive.
