What are the benefits of Japanese automotive industry expanding into West Virginia, USA?
West Virginia has numerous advantages such as business costs, safety, and livability. The automotive industry is becoming more active as major companies strengthen their investments.
West Virginia, which resonates with some people through the famous song "Country Roads." But how many know how beneficial it is for automotive manufacturers and their suppliers? The automotive industry is thriving in this state, with major companies, including Toyota, strengthening their investments. There are numerous well-known companies with manufacturing bases, and the location offers advantages such as proximity to assembly plants. **Five Reasons Why Many Japanese Companies Invest in West Virginia** (1) Competitive Business Costs… Business costs, including taxes, wages, and utilities, are lower than the national average. (2) Market Location… It is at the center of the automotive industry corridor running from the Midwest to the South of North America. (3) Workforce Support… Financial support for recruitment and employee training, as well as human resources assistance. (4) Investment Incentives… Tax credits for manufacturing, assistance in finding factory sites and properties, financial support, and other assistance. (5) One-on-One Support… Individual project support from staff based in Japan and staff at the West Virginia headquarters. *Currently, we have released materials introducing the benefits of corporate expansion into West Virginia. Please feel free to view them from the [PDF Download] link below.*
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The West Virginia State Government Japan Office is a direct branch of the International Division of the West Virginia Department of Economic Development. We conduct promotional activities in Japan to encourage Japanese companies to choose West Virginia when considering expansion into North America. Additionally, we provide support to ensure that companies can conduct business safely and sustainably, offering customized responses tailored to the needs of each company. *For more details, please refer to the materials. Feel free to contact us with any inquiries.*
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*For more details, please refer to the materials. Feel free to contact us as well.*
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Toyota invests \$453 million in its Buffalo plant in West Virginia, creating 80 new jobs.
Governor Patrick Morrisey expressed gratitude for Toyota's announcement of an additional investment of \$453 million (approximately 68 billion yen) in its manufacturing plant in Buffalo, West Virginia. This significant investment not only demonstrates a commitment to the local economy but will also create 80 new jobs at the facility. Governor Morrisey stated, "This ongoing investment is a strong testament to Toyota's confidence in our state's economy and workforce. We take pride in seeing Toyota continue to grow in West Virginia." He added, "We thank Toyota for believing in our state's workers, communities, and the shared future we have." Details of the investment: Investment amount: \$453 million New jobs: 80 Purpose: Increased production of four-cylinder hybrid-compatible engines, and increased production of the sixth-generation hybrid transaxle and rear motor stator Start date: Production capacity expansion planned for 2027 Toyota West Virginia is a key hub in global hybrid technology, assembling over one million engines, transmissions, and hybrid transaxles annually. (Announcement by the governor on November 18, 2025)
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Notice of Participation in Automotive World 2026 Tokyo
West Virginia will exhibit at Automotive World 2026 in Tokyo. Event Dates: January 21 (Wed) to January 23 (Fri), 2026, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM Location: Tokyo Big Sight, West Exhibition Hall Booth Number: W10-82 Top-level automotive parts manufacturers are already located within the state, and a robust supply chain has been established. The abundance of natural resources necessary for EV battery manufacturing, the vast land available for large-scale factory construction and operation, and competitive electricity supply provide significant advantages for manufacturers. For specific inquiries regarding expansion and investment, a specialized team from the United States, along with Japanese staff, will be available to answer questions on-site. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to hear directly from two automotive parts manufacturers, Diamond Electric Holdings Co., Ltd. and Japan Thermostat Co., Ltd., who are already operating in West Virginia, about their products, technologies, and business activities in the U.S. Why not find your next business growth opportunity in North America, West Virginia? We sincerely look forward to your visit.
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The West Virginia Government Office in Japan is an overseas office of the International Division of the West Virginia Department of Economic Development. West Virginia is located in the eastern United States, surrounded by five states, including major cities like Washington D.C. and Pittsburgh, and is known for its strong manufacturing sector. The main characteristics of West Virginia are as follows: - Low industrial electricity and gas rates (due to coal, natural gas, and shale gas-fired power generation, as well as having one of the largest wind farms in the East and being home to the Appalachian Hydrogen Hub in Morgantown). - One of the largest wind farms in the eastern United States, advantageous for the use of green energy. - Excellent access to the large market in the eastern United States and a logistics hub. - High retention rates (ranked first in the nation for low manufacturing turnover rates according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics). - Resilience to natural disasters (the terrain, which is largely covered by the gently sloping Appalachian Mountains, has solid bedrock, making it less susceptible to earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes). Particularly active industries include chemicals, automotive parts, aerospace and defense, steel, metal processing, building materials, and IT, with recent growth in the EV and battery industries.