Lansing, Michigan, September 22, 2025
News Summary
Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s recent trade mission to Japan, part of a three-country tour including Singapore and Germany, cost the state $216,000. The visit aimed to strengthen economic ties between Michigan and Japan, featuring meetings with numerous prominent companies including Toyota, Subaru, and Hitachi. The funding was sourced from the Michigan Economic Development Foundation, emphasizing Michigan’s strategy to attract international investment.
Lansing, Michigan – Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s recent trade mission to Japan cost the state $216,000, as revealed in a document obtained through a records request. This visit was part of a larger three-country tour, which also included stops in Singapore and Germany, with the expenses pertaining solely to the official delegation.
Upon arriving in Tokyo, Whitmer made sushi and stayed overnight at the Prince Sakura Tower. The trip included multiple meetings aimed at fostering economic ties between Michigan and Japan. Notably, Whitmer met with representatives from Astemo, an automotive supplier, and toured their manufacturing plant. Other notable engagements took place with:
- Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
- Hitachi
- JR Automation
- XEX Nihonbashi
- Subaru
- Tenabe Tech
- Nissan
- Nippon Steel
- Keidanren
Additionally, she met with the president of Toyota and the chairman of the Japan Automotive Products Association during her visit. Whitmer completed her itinerary with a tour of Daifuku’s facility and a dinner with Governor Taizo Mikazuki of the Shiga prefecture, as well as the mayor of Hino city. Meetings were also conducted with Honda and the Midwest Japan Association.
The total cost of the trip only covered expenses for the official delegation. Details regarding expenses for Whitmer’s upcoming trips to Singapore and Germany have been requested and are forthcoming.
Two representatives from Novi participated in the Midwest U.S.–Japan Association Conference, with their travel costs covered by the city of Novi. These local officials aimed to strengthen economic and cultural ties with Japan, where they initiated Sister City discussions with Nagahama.
Funding for the Japan trip originated from the Michigan Economic Development Foundation, which operates to support the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). International trips are integral to Michigan’s “Make it in Michigan” economic development strategy that aims to attract investment into the state.
Whitmer underscored the significance of cultivating relationships with international firms as a strategy to draw investment into Michigan. Her international travel expenses in 2023 have also included:
- $216,000 for the Japan trip
- $175,000 for a trip to the United Arab Emirates
- $204,000 for a trip to the UK
- $219,000 for a trip to Australia
For perspective, Michigan’s exports to Singapore reached $283 million in 2024, primarily comprised of transportation equipment, machinery, and chemical products. Japan currently ranks as Michigan’s sixth-largest trade partner, with 415 Japanese-owned companies in the state supporting over 37,000 jobs.
FAQ
How much did Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s trade mission to Japan cost?
Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s recent trip to Japan cost $216,000.
What was the purpose of Whitmer’s trip to Japan?
Whitmer’s Japan visit was part of a three-country tour aimed at fostering economic growth and building relationships with international companies.
What companies did Governor Whitmer meet with during her Japan visit?
Whitmer met with representatives from Astemo, Hitachi, JR Automation, Subaru, Nissan, and many others including the president of Toyota and the chairman of the Japan Automotive Products Association.
Which organization funded the trip?
The trip was funded by the Michigan Economic Development Foundation, which supports the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
What are Michigan’s main exports to Singapore?
Michigan’s exports to Singapore reached $283 million in 2024, primarily consisting of transportation equipment, machinery, and chemical products.
Key Features of Whitmer’s Trade Mission to Japan
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Trip Cost | $216,000 |
| Destination | Japan, as part of a three-country tour including Singapore and Germany |
| Major Meetings | With representatives from major companies including Toyota, Subaru, and Hitachi |
| Key Organizations Involved | Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and others |
| Economic Strategy | Part of Michigan’s “Make it in Michigan” economic development strategy |
| Future Trips | Includes additional trips to Singapore and Germany |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Michigan Capitol Confidential: Whitmer Spent $216,000 on Japan Trip
- Detroit News: Whitmer Announces Trip to Japan, Singapore
- MLive: Whitmer Says She Won’t Be the Hold-Up in Passing State Budget
- Crain’s Detroit: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer Leads Trade Mission to Singapore, Japan
- Wikipedia: Gretchen Whitmer
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
