PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Governor Tina Kotek recently concluded a high-profile trade mission to Japan and South Korea, aimed at expanding the state’s global economic footprint, boosting exports, and re-establishing a long-awaited nonstop flight between Portland and Asia. The week-long visit brought together government officials, business leaders, and trade experts to highlight Oregon’s growing strengths in advanced technology, agriculture, and tourism.
Expanding Trade Opportunities in Asia
Governor Kotek led a delegation that included senior representatives from Business Oregon, the Port of Portland, and other key industries. Over the course of the trip, the delegation attended more than 100 meetings with potential investors, trade partners, and government leaders.
The mission’s core goal was to expand Oregon’s export and investment opportunities in Asia — particularly in sectors like semiconductors, clean energy, food products, and agriculture, where Oregon already holds competitive advantages.
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In a statement following her return, Governor Kotek emphasized that Japan and South Korea remain two of Oregon’s top ten export markets, accounting for approximately $2.5 billion in trade in 2024. She said the mission’s efforts were focused on easing agricultural trade restrictions and restoring direct international air service to Asia, both of which are vital for Oregon’s economic growth.
Restoring a Nonstop Flight Between Portland and Asia
A central focus of the governor’s trip was re-establishing a nonstop flight between Portland International Airport (PDX) and Incheon, South Korea. The route, once operated by Delta Air Lines, was discontinued during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a significant barrier for business and tourism connections.
To pursue this goal, Kotek met directly with executives from Korean Air and Delta Air Lines, urging them to consider reinstating the route. During her meeting with Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-Seok, she received strong support for the proposal. The Prime Minister expressed interest in enhancing bilateral travel and investment, noting that a direct connection between Portland and Incheon would benefit both economies.
Kotek also discussed trade and travel collaboration with George Glass, U.S. Ambassador to Japan, who expressed optimism about the growing partnership between Oregon and its Asian counterparts.
Building Global Investment and Trade Relations
Members of the Oregon delegation, including Business Oregon Director Sophorn Cheang, played a key role in promoting Oregon as a prime destination for global investment. Cheang said the trade mission gave local businesses an opportunity to expand their market access and strengthen existing trade partnerships across Asia.
Curtis Robinhold, Executive Director of the Port of Portland, echoed this sentiment, noting that the meetings opened new avenues for future investments in trade, logistics, and manufacturing. “These face-to-face discussions allow Oregon to showcase what makes our state unique — innovation, reliability, and a commitment to sustainable growth,” Robinhold said.
Foreign Direct Investment Roundtables
A major component of the trip included Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) roundtables in both Japan and South Korea. These events allowed Oregon leaders to meet directly with investors, technology firms, and major corporations interested in the U.S. market.
The roundtables were described as “a significant step forward” in positioning Oregon as a hub for clean technology, semiconductor manufacturing, and sustainable agriculture. Delegates presented Oregon’s economic strengths — including its talent pool, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship — to global executives.
Engaging Semiconductor Industry Leaders
Governor Kotek also held one-on-one meetings with top executives from major semiconductor suppliers and manufacturers, including Kanto Chemicals and Asahi Glass Company (AGC).
Kanto Chemicals, a leading supplier of materials used in chip production, expressed interest in expanding collaboration with Oregon-based companies. Meanwhile, AGC, which operates a semiconductor plant in Hillsboro and is one of the region’s CHIPS Act funding recipients, discussed plans for continued investment and innovation within the state.
These meetings underscored Oregon’s reputation as a semiconductor manufacturing hub, home to industry giants and a rapidly growing network of suppliers.
Agricultural Exports and Tourism Promotion
Beyond technology, the delegation also worked to enhance agricultural trade and tourism. Governor Kotek met with trade officials to reduce barriers to Oregon-grown products, including wine, hazelnuts, and berries — commodities that have long been in high demand across Asia.
Tourism promotion was another focus, with Kotek highlighting Oregon’s natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and cultural diversity. Restoring a direct flight to Asia, she noted, would reinvigorate tourism by making travel more convenient for international visitors.
Strengthening Oregon’s Global Partnerships
Governor Kotek emphasized that the mission was not only about expanding exports, but also about building enduring relationships. “Oregon’s connection to Asia is rooted in decades of shared trade and innovation,” she said. “This trip allowed us to renew those partnerships and open new doors for collaboration.”
Business Oregon officials said the mission demonstrated a unified message: Oregon is open for business and ready to engage with international partners across technology, sustainability, and cultural exchange.
Looking Ahead
With the trade mission now concluded, attention turns to follow-up actions — particularly the negotiations with airlines and trade agencies that could lead to concrete agreements. Oregon officials plan to continue discussions with Korean Air and Delta to finalize plans for a Portland-Incheon nonstop route, while business leaders pursue new export contracts in both Japan and Korea.
Governor Kotek’s Asia trade mission reflects a broader effort to strengthen Oregon’s global competitiveness and ensure the state remains a leading player in the international marketplace.
