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From Tokyo to Tennessee: Knoxville’s Economic Play

GMI POST

From Tokyo to Tennessee: Knoxville’s Economic Play

Nestled in eastern Tennessee, the city of Knoxville continues to establish itself as a key hub for Japanese investment in the southern United States. Doug Lawyer, Vice President of Economic Development at the Knoxville Chamber, emphasized the importance of enhancing Knoxville’s global presence and leveraging its ties with Japan. 

Doug Lawyer, Vice President of Economic Development at the Knoxville Chamber (Photo source: Knoxville Chamber)

“We’re looking to increase our exposure in Japan, especially with major events like the Southeast U.S.-Japan (SEUS-Japan) conference scheduled for 2025 in Tokyo and 2026 in Nashville,” Lawyer stated.

Lawyer highlighted Knoxville’s proactive approach: “The region is committed to strengthening relationships and creating opportunities for mutual growth.” Knoxville’s industrial ecosystem, supported by research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee, makes it an attractive destination for advanced manufacturing and innovation.

The success of the Blount Partnership in attracting investments from DENSO, which committed $1 billion to expand its operations in Maryville, underscores the region’s potential. Japanese investment in Tennessee accounted for $10 billion as of 2023, reflecting the state’s appeal to global businesses.

As Knoxville continues to align its strategies with global trends, its commitment to deepening ties with Japan signals a promising future for the region’s economic growth and cultural exchange. 

With the upcoming SEUS-Japan conferences, Knoxville has an opportunity to showcase its strengths and further solidify its role as a key partner in U.S.-Japan relations.

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