NAGOYA, Aichi — Gov. Greg Abbott remains on what he calls his economic development mission to Asia, where he's meeting with business and government leaders.
On Wednesday, the governor met with Toyota executives and suppliers in Japan.
Toyota already has strong ties to Texas. The company's North American headquarters are located in Plano, just north of Dallas, where it employs more than 6,000 Texans. Toyota also has a truck assembly plant in San Antonio, where more than 2,600 Texans are employed.
Last month, Toyota announced plans to expand its manufacturing facility in San Antonio, with the help of a new $531 million investment.
In statement about Wednesday's visit in Japan, Abbott wrote, “Texas has been the proud home of Toyota manufacturing facilities for over two decades. Our partnership with the global powerhouse, Toyota, has played a critical role in strengthening our mighty economy and bringing good-paying jobs to hardworking Texans. It is an honor to be at the Toyota Commemorative Museum to learn more about the history and legacy of the company, and I look forward to continuing to collaborate with Toyota as we build a more innovative future for both Texas and Japan.”
Abbott’s tour included a viewing of the showroom of Toyota cars, historic and modern manufacturing equipment and more.
The governor then met with Aisin President and CEO Moritaka Yoshida and other Aisin executives to thank the company for its recent investment in Cibolo, Texas, with a new manufacturing facility.
Abbott visited business leaders and lawmakers in Taiwan and South Korea before his visit to Japan. He is expected back in Texas on Saturday, July 13. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has been serving as acting governor of Texas in his absence.