New data highlights potential for deeper Hawaiʻi-Japan economic partnership

Newly released data highlights potential for a deeper Hawaiʻi-Japan economic partnership. The 2026 Hawai‘i–Japan Economic Report is the first comprehensive analysis of its kind since 1998.

The state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, in partnership with the Hawaiʻi Institute for Public Affairs and the Japan-America Society of Hawaiʻi, hosted a public policy forum recently to highlight findings from the new report.

The event brought together leaders from government, business and community organizations to discuss emerging opportunities and the future of Hawai‘i’s economic relationship with Japan.  

The forum featured a presentation on updated data examining trade flows, investment trends, tourism impacts and sector-level economic activity that form the foundation of Hawai‘i’s long-standing partnership with Japan. Panelists discussed key opportunities in tourism, clean energy, digital and creative industries, sustainable agriculture and education and workforce development.

“Updated data gives us a sharper view of how Hawai‘i and Japan can deepen economic collaboration in the years ahead. It also shows where targeted partnerships can create shared value for both economies,” said DBEDT Director James Kunane Tokioka.

“The generations‑long cultural connection between Hawai‘i and Japan continues to anchor our economic relationship,” said Reyna Kaneko, president of JASH. “That foundation of trust makes it easier for communities and businesses to build meaningful partnerships.”

Panelists also underscored the continued importance of sister-state and sister-city relationships in strengthening trade, investment and cultural exchange. These partnerships remain a central mechanism for building trust and piloting new projects between Hawai‘i and prefectures across Japan.