Governor's Trade Mission to Japan
November 1-10, 1999

Governor Jesse Ventura embarked on his first trade mission in November 1999 with a trip to Japan, where his celebrity as a former wrestler and maverick politician attracted extraordinary attention to Minnesota. The visit was part of Japan-Minnesota Ventures, a broad-based initiative designed to strengthen and expand Minnesota's relations with Japan.

During visits to Tokyo and Osaka, Governor Ventura participated in a wide range of public events designed to encourage trade, investment and tourism from Japan. "I am more than a goodwill ambassador," said Governor Ventura. "I am Minnesota's top salesman, and it's my job to look for opportunities to promote trade and tourism. But our mission to Japan is about more than just business. It's about making connections and strengthening Minnesota's many relationships with its second largest trading partner."

Trade and Economic Development Commissioner Jerry Carlson said the governor's popularity in Japan made him the ideal representative for Minnesota. "Governor Ventura is known in Japan not only as a sportsman and entertainer but as the one who shocked the world with his election. The Governor's third party status has captured the Japanese imagination, and the country wants to understand the Minnesota political phenomenon."

Japan bought more than $743 million in Minnesota manufactured exports in 1998, second only to Canada in the value of goods it imports from Minnesota. Japan is also a significant importer of Minnesota commodities and services.

More than 600 Minnesota companies have done business with Japan, and more than 30 Minnesota companies have operations in Japan. Japan has also invested heavily in Minnesota with more than 150 Japanese-owned affiliates in the state employing over 4000 Minnesotans.

Tourism is an important source of revenue for Minnesota, and Japanese travelers comprise the single greatest number of overseas visitors to Minnesota, averaging 62,000 visitors every year who come either for business or leisure.

The recent decline in Asian markets has strengthened the administration's resolve to support and nurture our longstanding relationship. Through Japan-Minnesota Ventures, the state seeks to bolster support for the vital links between Minnesota and Japanese businesses and communities to enrich the lives of all.
  

Why Japan

Minnesota-Japan History

Minnesota-Japan Cultural and Educational Relationships