Chicago & Japan: A Week of Global Engagement, Investment & Innovation
World Business Chicago
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Chicago and Japan share a deep and enduring partnership, built on decades of economic collaboration, trade, and cultural exchange. Nowhere is this relationship more evident than in Chicago’s 50-year sister city bond with Osaka, a milestone that was celebrated in 2023 as a testament to our cities’ shared commitment to global engagement and economic diplomacy.
In the photo above, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Osaka Mayor Hideyuki Yokoyama reaffirm this partnership in 2023, strengthening economic, cultural, and business ties between our two cities. This moment, captured during a special reception hosted by World Business Chicago and the Osaka Committee of Chicago Sister Cities International , underscored the lasting significance of this alliance and our mutual dedication to fostering continued growth and investment.
This week, WBC led a high-level business delegation to Japan, engaging with over 100 companies, participating in key industry roundtables, and fostering investment opportunities that will shape Chicago’s economic future.
With Japan ranking among Chicago’s top sources of foreign direct investment (FDI), this delegation reinforced a shared vision for trust, innovation, and sustainable economic growth.
“Chicago has long served as a critical gateway for Japanese businesses, ranking among the top three U.S. cities for ANA in both revenue and passenger volume,” said Takeshi Komatani , Director, Passenger Sales, Central Region, USA, All Nippon Airways . “Beyond passenger travel, Chicago is a major hub for Japanese cargo operations, supported by a strong network of logistics firms. Business trips like these are essential in fostering deeper engagement between Chicago and Japan.”
In 2023 alone, Illinois exports to Japan exceeded $2.59 billion, fueling key industries and supporting thousands of jobs. As global economic landscapes shift, Chicago continues to position itself as a premier destination for Japanese investment, trade, and innovation.
Recent Japanese Investments in Chicagoland
Japanese companies continue to see Chicago as a key U.S. hub for business expansion, with recent investments strengthening our economic ecosystem:
🔹 Rapyuta Robotics (Schaumburg, IL): Opened its U.S. headquarters in January 2023, a key Pro-Chicagoland decision under the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP). The company is a leader in warehouse automation using cloud robotics.
🔹 Caddi Inc. (Chicago, IL): A global supply chain technology startup, recently opened its U.S. headquarters in downtown Chicago, planning to create 100+ jobs over the next 12-18 months.
🔹 Fuji Blommer Chocolate Company (Chicago, IL): North America’s largest cocoa processor and ingredient chocolate supplier recently expanded its Application Center at the Merchandise Mart, employing 250+ people.
🔹 Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America, Inc. (Itasca, IL): A global leader in food innovation, Ajinomoto is currently developing an application center in Chicago, leveraging the city’s talent pipeline and academic research network.
“The proximity to leading global companies is a signature attribute of the Chicagoland area,” said Ryan Smith , Chief Growth Officer & Executive Vice President, Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America, Inc. “As a global leader in amino acid-based products for the food and beverage industry, it is especially important to us. The central location and vibrant culture have created a part of our global footprint where we can proudly host customers, industry experts, and colleagues, especially those who move from Tokyo, and can quickly become part of the community. The talent pool and academic network in the Chicagoland area are also impressive, which means we can continue to be on the leading edge of research and grow our team of experts to innovate at a pace that matches consumer expectations.”
Cultural & Institutional Ties: Strengthening a 50-Year Relationship
Beyond business, Chicago and Osaka’s 50-year sister city partnership has fostered deep institutional and cultural ties, supported by organizations such as:
· JETRO - Japan External Trade Organization Chicago Office
"The Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chicago was established in 1966 with just 58 corporate members, all of whom had the privilege of growing and expanding their businesses in Chicago and the greater Chicagoland area from the very beginning,” said Tetsuro Mitani, Executive Director, Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chicago. “As we approach our 60th anniversary in 2026, we reflect on the pivotal role our members have played in driving economic growth across the Midwest—often referred to as the Heartland of America—a crucial hub for the automobile industry and a key force behind the United States' economic prosperity. We are confident that JCCC and the City of Chicago will continue to play a leading role in shaping future economic development. We look forward to strengthening our partnership and working together toward our shared vision of creating a more prosperous world for all."
On the Ground: Real-Time Updates from Japan
Throughout the trip, we published real-time updates, capturing key moments from Tokyo and Osaka. Below, explore highlights from our blog series covering our engagement with Japan’s business leaders, investors, and innovators.
📍 Day 1: Kicking Off with Sports & Global Business
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📍 Day 2: Showcasing Chicago’s Economic Strength
📍 Day 3: Quantum, Clean Energy & Advanced Manufacturing
📍 Day 4: Osaka & Expo 2025—Building Bridges for the Future
World Business Chicago traveled to Osaka, further strengthening our deep economic and cultural ties with one of our longest-standing sister cities. A key focus of our visit was the Expo 2025, a landmark global event that will take place in Osaka from April 13 to October 13, 2025.
With the theme "Designing Future Society for Our Lives," Expo 2025 is expected to draw 28 million visitors from across the globe, showcasing innovations in healthcare, sustainability, and technology from over 150 countries. The event will feature autonomous transportation, cutting-edge infrastructure, and eco-friendly urban design, cementing Osaka’s role as a future-focused innovation hub.
Much like Chicago’s 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, which introduced the world to the Ferris wheel and electric lighting, Expo 2025 promises to be a game-changing moment for global collaboration and innovation. As Chicago shaped the future over a century ago, Osaka is poised to make its mark on the world stage once again—and we are proud to be here to strengthen our city’s ties to this historic moment.
The World Business Chicago delegation enjoyed a tour of Umekita Park, a cutting-edge urban redevelopment near Osaka Station, which showcased Osaka’s commitment to sustainability—featuring Japan’s first Time Out Market, a nod to Chicago’s global influence.
The day concluded with a formal dinner hosted by the Osaka Prefecture Council, where each delegate shared remarks, reinforcing our 52-year sister-city relationship and setting the stage for future collaboration.
Final Thoughts
As global investors navigate new economic realities, Chicago stands as a leading destination for business, innovation, and investment. The relationships and commitments forged on this recent Japan trade mission will play a vital role in Chicago’s continued economic expansion.
Stay engaged. Stay connected. More to come.
IP Licensor (Warner Chappell 50 year partner)/Land Developer
5dOur decades of international media partnerships with Japan-based companies fills this moment with great promise -- Thanks for service and global bridge maintenance World Business Chicago Brandon Johnson.
We are honored to celebrate our long-standing and deeply rooted partnership with the great city of Osaka. For over 50 years, our sister-city relationship has fostered cultural exchange, economic collaboration, and enduring friendships. We are grateful for the continued commitment of both cities to strengthening these ties and look forward to many more years of shared growth and connection.
Kudos to Mayor Johnson and city of Chicago on their half century commitment with Japan!