Nebraska Showcases Beef Pork and Biofuels to Japan Buyers

By Scout Nelson

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has completed a successful trade mission to Japan, focusing on agriculture, biofuels, and business partnerships. The mission included meetings with major buyers, industry leaders, and investors.

Governor Pillen emphasized Nebraska’s strength as a supplier of beef and pork, two of the state’s most important exports to Japan. He also promoted Nebraska’s biofuels industry, highlighting the state’s ability to produce low-carbon ethanol.

Nebraska’s position in sustainable energy is especially timely as Japan moves toward higher ethanol blends in its fuel supply, aiming for 10 percent by 2030 and 20 percent by 2040.

At an ethanol buyers’ event in Tokyo, organized by the U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Grains Council, Governor Pillen noted the potential for Nebraska to play a key role in helping Japan meet its energy goals. U.S. Ambassador George Glass also underlined the Midwest’s strong role in clean energy development.

Representatives from the Nebraska Corn Board and Union Pacific shared how sustainable farming and transportation infrastructure further strengthen Nebraska’s position as a reliable partner.

The governor also spoke at the Midwest-Japan Association conference, highlighting Nebraska’s advantages in agriculture and manufacturing. This event, which rotates between the U.S. and Japan, gave Nebraska a platform to connect with potential investors and customers.

On the final day, the Nebraska delegation met with leaders from Kawasaki to thank them for their long-term investment in Lincoln. Kawasaki’s facility, in operation since 1974, now spans nearly 1.3 million square feet and produces vehicles, watercraft, and railcars. Its recent $4.5 billion contract with New York City’s transit system underscores the company’s strong impact.

Japan remains one of Nebraska’s largest export markets, with goods worth $699 million shipped in 2024. Nebraska established its Japan office in 2006 to strengthen business ties. Governor Pillen’s mission builds on this foundation, reinforcing Nebraska’s role as a partner in agriculture, energy, and manufacturing.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-erdinhasdemir