The Business Development team worked with the Japan Trade Office to conduct a Japan Trade Mission in June 2025. The aim of the mission was to expand export opportunities and build partnerships for six Idaho entities.
Attendees Astra Engineering, ATC Advanced Thermoplastics Composites, Boise State University, G-Zero CNC Machining, Hamilton Manufacturing Inc. and Viiision received tailored visits with prospective Japanese customers, distributors and partners in each of their target sectors.
In total, our team organized 36 meetings for the attendees and worked closely with each participant to provide them the most up-to-date and in-depth market insights and emerging opportunities relevant to their industries in Japan.
With the mission now concluded, many of the company meetings have already delivered tangible results and all six entities have been able to follow up on promising leads and engage in productive discussions from the trip.
Chris Parker, a participant in the Idaho delegation and president of Astra Engineering, said that the trip was extremely successful.
“The team at Idaho Commerce is exceptional,” Parker said. “Their extensive network and wealth of experience were instrumental in making the trade mission to Japan a success. As a small business owner it is easy to feel isolated when navigating international opportunities alone. Having the support of a well-connected and capable team made all the difference. The trade mission was not only a tremendous experience, but also one of the most impactful networking opportunities I have had in my career.”
Christy Hamilton, CEO of Hamilton Manufacturing Inc., echoed these sentiments.
“We have had the pleasure of working with Idaho Commerce for over 12 years, and they continue to be a valuable partner in our domestic and international business efforts,” Hamilton said. “The team is knowledgeable, responsive and consistently ready to assist when we have reached out for support. Idaho Commerce reflects Idaho’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment that supports small businesses in their export endeavors.”
The Commerce team looks forward to utilizing the Japan Trade Office to assist Idaho companies in the future.
This story was reposted from the FY2025 Annual Report. Read the full report here.