What's Happening?
Congressman Scott Peters, alongside San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and the World Trade Center San Diego (WTCSD), is leading a trade delegation to Japan from September 7-11, 2026. This mission aims to strengthen economic relationships in the Indo-Pacific
region. The delegation, comprising business, civic, and academic leaders, will focus on building partnerships in key sectors such as defense and maritime dual-use technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors, life sciences, and urban development. The initiative is organized by WTCSD, the international arm of the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation (EDC), with support from the U.S. Embassy in Japan and various sponsors including Ambix Ventures, Ganmi Corporation, Alaska Airlines, SAIC, and San Diego State University. This marks WTCSD's second trade mission to Japan in a decade, underscoring the importance of the U.S.-Japan relationship for San Diego's economy and national security.
Why It's Important?
This trade mission is crucial for the U.S. as it seeks to build more resilient supply chains, strengthen its industrial base, and maintain a competitive edge in critical technologies. Japan, being San Diego’s second-largest foreign investor and a global leader in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, robotics, shipbuilding, and life sciences, presents significant opportunities for collaboration. By fostering partnerships in areas like defense, AI, and fusion energy, the mission aims to translate strong U.S.-Japan relationships into tangible economic and national security outcomes for San Diego and the broader country. The initiative also reinforces San Diego's strategic role in the Indo-Pacific, attracting investment, supporting job growth, and opening new markets for U.S. businesses. Strengthening ties with trusted international partners like Japan is vital amidst evolving global trade policies and economic uncertainties.
What's Next?
Over the five-day mission, the delegation will engage in numerous meetings, site visits, and networking events across Tokyo, Yokohama, and Osaka. Key agenda items include celebrating 70 years of the Sister City partnership between San Diego and Yokohama, with Mayor Gloria addressing the Yokohama City Council. The delegation will also visit the U.S. Naval Base at Yokosuka, advance semiconductor and AI collaboration with Japanese industry and academic leaders, and drive fusion energy commercialization through visits to Kyoto Fusioneering and the University of Osaka’s Institute of Laser Engineering. Additionally, the mission will strengthen maritime and shipbuilding partnerships, pitch the San Diego binational region for investment at a Tokyo summit, and deepen cooperation with Japan’s life sciences ecosystem. These engagements are expected to lead to new business and institutional partnerships, further cementing San Diego's position as a destination for international investment.
Beyond the Headlines
The trade mission extends beyond immediate economic gains, touching upon deeper implications for U.S. foreign policy and technological leadership. By focusing on dual-use technologies, the initiative highlights the convergence of economic and national security interests, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. The emphasis on resilient supply chains and industrial base strengthening reflects a broader U.S. strategy to reduce reliance on potentially unstable regions and enhance domestic capabilities. Furthermore, the collaboration in cutting-edge fields like AI, semiconductors, and fusion energy underscores a commitment to long-term innovation and technological advancement, positioning the U.S. and its allies at the forefront of future global industries. The mission also reinforces cultural and diplomatic ties, building on decades of friendship between San Diego and Yokohama, which can foster greater understanding and cooperation on a wider range of issues.
