Japanese Automotive Delegation Strengthens Ties with South Carolina During Three-Day Visit

ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--A high-level Japanese delegation specializing in the automotive industry concluded a three-day visit to South Carolina (November 17–19), further strengthening ties between Japanese and U.S. leaders in the sector.

Organized by the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and co-organized by the South Carolina Department of Commerce, the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, and the Upstate SC Alliance, the visit featured tours of key facilities within South Carolina’s thriving automotive ecosystem.

The delegation began its visit with an economic overview briefing by the South Carolina Department of Commerce and an introduction to the state’s automotive industry by the SC Manufactures Alliance. The group then toured Scout Motors’ Columbia Connection Center, receiving an update on the construction of one of the largest EV factories in South Carolina’s history and exploring opportunities for future collaboration. After a luncheon with Secretary of Commerce Harry M. Lightsey III, the delegation visited the Cornerstone Economic Development and Workforce Training Center at Midlands Technical College to learn about workforce development programs supporting the automotive sector, including Scout Motors. The day concluded with a networking reception hosted by the South Carolina I-77 Alliance.

On the second day, the delegation visited the Port of Charleston, one of the largest port facilities in the Southeast. Additional site visits included the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, Robert Bosch Charleston Plant, and Mercedes-Benz Vans Charleston.

On the final day, the delegation toured Inland Port Greer, a critical logistics hub supporting the automotive industry in Upstate South Carolina. Following a networking lunch with regional businesses and automotive leaders, the group visited the Upstate SC Alliance and Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR), where they learned about collaborative initiatives with JTEKT North America, a major Japanese automotive parts manufacturer. The visit concluded at the International Transportation Innovation Center (ITIC), a cutting-edge mobility research and testing facility.

JETRO looks forward to deepening its collaboration with the State of South Carolina, building on the growing momentum between Japan and the region in advanced technology sectors.