In April 2025, Maryland Governor Wes Moore embarked on a weeklong international trade and investment mission to Japan and South Korea, aiming to bolster economic partnerships and attract foreign investment to the state. The mission, which took place from April 11 to April 18, focused on key industries such as quantum technology, life sciences, and aerospace engineering.
During the Japan leg of the trip, Governor Moore and a delegation of Maryland officials and business leaders engaged in a series of meetings and events designed to showcase Maryland’s economic potential and foster collaboration with Japanese counterparts. The delegation included representatives from the Maryland Department of Commerce, the Maryland Department of Transportation, and the private sector.
One of the highlights of the mission was a visit to the Yamanashi Maglev Center, where Governor Moore experienced a test ride on the world’s fastest superconducting magnetic levitation train, reaching speeds of up to 311 miles per hour. The governor expressed enthusiasm for the technology and its potential applications in Maryland’s transportation infrastructure.
Governor Moore also participated in a roundtable discussion in Tokyo on World Quantum Day, emphasizing Maryland’s commitment to advancing quantum technology and exploring opportunities for collaboration with Japanese industry leaders.
In addition to economic discussions, the mission included cultural diplomacy efforts. Governor Moore presented a signed Baltimore Orioles jersey to Kanagawa Prefecture Governor Yuji Kuroiwa, celebrating the shared love of baseball and honoring Japanese pitcher Tomoyuki Sugano, a native of Kanagawa and a member of the Orioles.
The mission concluded with the signing of a renewed memorandum of understanding between Maryland and Kanagawa Prefecture, focusing on mutual economic growth opportunities in sciences, biotechnology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and aerospace technology.
Governor Moore’s trade mission to Japan underscored Maryland’s strategic focus on attracting global investment and fostering international partnerships to drive economic growth and innovation in the state.
