by 
Governor Gretchen Whitmer leads Michigan’s first investment mission to Singapore and renews economic ties with Japan, aiming to secure jobs and growth for the state.
Michigan launches first-ever investment mission to Singapore while reaffirming Japan ties
Governor Gretchen Whitmer departed this week for Singapore and Japan on an investment mission aimed at attracting foreign capital and strengthening trade ties. The trip, led in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), marks the first time a Michigan governor has led an official mission to Singapore.
The delegation includes public and private leaders from across Michigan, from automotive suppliers to economic development agencies. They plan to highlight Michigan’s position as a global hub for advanced manufacturing, clean energy, life sciences, and mobility solutions.
Whitmer called Singapore “one of the most dynamic economies in the world” and said the visit is designed to build trust and position Michigan as a stable partner despite shifting tariffs and federal trade uncertainty. The governor also emphasized Michigan’s deep economic relationship with Japan, where 415 Japanese-owned companies already support more than 37,000 jobs in the state.
Michigan trade leaders stress opportunities in mobility, energy, and innovation
Quentin L. Messer Jr., MEDC’s CEO, framed the trip as part of the “Make It in Michigan” strategy, noting that global engagement is critical to the state’s competitiveness.
Messer said Michigan is building on its “long foreign direct investment history” with Japan while “laying the groundwork” in Singapore for new business opportunities. In 2024, Michigan exported $283 million in goods to Singapore, dominated by transportation equipment, machinery, and chemicals.
Ben Marchionna, MEDC’s Chief Innovation Ecosystem Officer, underscored the importance of positioning Michigan’s entrepreneurs and research institutions in global markets. “An investment mission like this is critical to not only attract new businesses to Michigan but also to help Michigan entrepreneurs expand into new markets,” Marchionna said.
Michigan’s historical relationship with Japan remains a cornerstone of growth
Japan remains Michigan’s sixth-largest trade partner, and the state has cultivated ties through decades of automotive and manufacturing investment. The sister-state relationship with Shiga Prefecture adds cultural depth to the economic connection.
The governor’s delegation will attend the Midwest U.S.–Japan Association Conference in Tokyo, a long-standing forum for dialogue between Midwest states and Japanese leaders.
Michigan municipalities such as Novi and Battle Creek highlighted their strong Japanese ties. Novi Mayor Justin Fischer noted his city is home to the state’s largest Japanese population and dozens of Japanese firms. Battle Creek officials pointed to their half-century relationship with Japanese investors and the 15 companies employing 7,000 people in the city.
Consul General Hajime Kishimori in Detroit said, “The best time to facilitate the excellent relations between Michigan and Japan is now. The best place is here. And the best people to achieve this goal are us.”
Local leaders spotlight benefits for Michigan communities
The delegation includes representatives from Oakland County, Detroit Regional Partnership, Lakeshore Advantage, and the University of Michigan. Each stressed that trade ties foster not just jobs but innovation ecosystems.
Jennifer Owens, president of Lakeshore Advantage, said the mission allows West Michigan to showcase its growing smart manufacturing sector. Kelly Sexton of the University of Michigan emphasized global research partnerships that could accelerate the commercialization of university discoveries.
Major auto suppliers like AISIN and DENSO also joined the trip, underscoring the sector’s role in cementing Michigan’s global profile.
Broader context: trade missions amid federal trade uncertainty
The mission comes as tariffs and U.S. trade policies generate uncertainty for states dependent on global supply chains. Analysts note that states like Michigan—home to the auto industry—are disproportionately affected by global market shifts. Economic experts argue that cultivating direct ties with partners abroad provides states with some insulation from federal-level volatility.
Whitmer has made international outreach a priority, previously visiting Europe and Asia to secure battery and EV investments. In Singapore and Japan, Michigan officials hope to replicate those efforts in sectors ranging from advanced manufacturing to clean energy.
Read More Interesting Feature Stories From ThumbWind
- Michigan Feature News Stories – Unveiling the diverse and vibrant people, captivating places, and remarkable events that come together to make the Great Lake State unique.
- Strange Political News – A sarcastic take on official news from around the U.S., exploring the absurdities that often arise in the political landscape while providing a humorous perspective on current events and highlighting the quirks of politicians and policies.
- Michigan Hometown News – News and events from Michigan’s Upper Thumb region worth knowing, including local stories, impactful interviews, and updates on community happenings that shape the culture and lifestyle of the area.
Your Turn – Like This, or Hate it – We Want To Hear From You
Please offer an insightful and thoughtful comment. We review each response. Follow us to have other feature stories fill up your email box, or check us out at ThumbWind News.
