U.S.-Japan Relations in Portland, Oregon: Impact on Trade, Economy, and Community

On March 1, Sasakawa USA co-hosted a public panel discussion in Portland, Oregon, to explore the depth and breadth of U.S.-Japan ties and the benefits these ties bring to the United States at the national and regional levels. In particular, our event in Portland—one of the most popular cities with Japanese visitors in recent years—examined how U.S.-Japan relations impact U.S. trade and economic interests in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as the local economy and community.

The program featured three experts from Washington, D.C. and a local Japanese business representative to discuss the role of the U.S.-Japan security alliance; the challenges and opportunities in U.S.-Japan trade relations; why Japan matters for America and Oregon; and the impact of Japanese corporate presence in Portland.

The panel discussion was co-sponsored by Sasakawa USA and WorldOregon and in partnership with the East-West Center in Washington and Japan-America Society of Oregon. The event was one of a series of events Sasakawa USA organizes with local organizations as part of The Alliance Working in America (TAWA) program, which seeks to engage regional leaders and influencers across the United States on the importance of the U.S.-Japan alliance to U.S. regional and national interests.

Stephanie Segal, Senior Fellow and Deputy Director, Simon Chair in Political Economy, CSIS, presented on  “U.S.-Japan Trade Relations: Challenges and Opportunities.” Satu Limaye, Director, East-West Center in Washington, presented on “Japan Matters for America and Oregon.” Paul Taylor, ‎Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, Ajinomoto North America Division, presented on “Ajinomoto: Investment in the U.S.”

Click here for the detailed Agenda and Speaker Biographies.

Video

We sincerely apologize that a portion of Stephanie Segal’s segment is missing due to some technical difficulties. Please refer to the above slides for her full presentation.

Agenda

11:30 a.m.   | Registration & Lunch

Noon            |  Welcome Remarks

12:05 p.m.  | Panel Presentations: “U.S.-Japan Relations in Portland, Oregon: Impact on Trade, Economy and Community”

12:50 p.m.  | Discussion and Audience Q&A

13:30 p.m.  | Conclude

Speakers

James Zumwalt, CEO, Sasakawa USA *Moderator

Stephanie Segal, Senior Fellow and Deputy Director, Simon Chair in Political Economy, CSIS

Satu Limaye, Director, East-West Center in Washington

Paul Taylor, ‎Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, Ajinomoto North America Division