Press Releases

Takashi Tsuchiya named Chief Executive Director of JETRO's Chicago Office

(CHICAGO, APRIL 11 2005)- Mr. Takashi (Taka) Tsuchiya has been named to head the Chicago office of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO). As the new Chief Executive Director, Tsuchiya follows Tomoharu Washio, who returned to Japan upon completing his assignment in Chicago.

As Chief Executive Director, Tsuchiya will oversee JETRO's Chicago office in activities designed to facilitate business development between Japan and companies in the 12-state Midwest region. Of particular focus will be those companies with interest in developing their business in Japan.

The JETRO Chicago post is Tsuchiya's third overseas assignment. He served as Director of the Public Affairs Department at JETRO's New York office from 1985-1989, and was Vice President of JETRO's Bangkok office from 1997-2000. Immediately prior to his current post, Tsuchiya was Director of the Research Planning Division, Overseas Research Department, at JETRO's headquarters in Tokyo, a position he assumed in 2003.

Mr. Tsuchiya's appointment comes at a time when JETRO is working to bring new business to Japan, particularly in the technology sectors. "In the past few years we have seen an extraordinary interest in Japan from Midwest technology companies, particularly in biotech industries," Tsuchiya commented. "It will be our continuing challenge to bring American and Japanese companies together in successful partnerships in this area, along with robotics, manufacturing and other growth sectors. I am excited and optimistic about both the near-term and long-term prospects."

Mr. Tsuchiya, 53, joined JETRO in 1975, after earning his Bachelors Degree in American Studies from Tokyo University of Foreign Studies. He also received a Masters Degree in American Studies from the University of Hawaii.

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