This week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer is currently on an official visit to Taiwan and South Korea, in an effort to highlight Michigan’s dedication to supporting leaders in the Asian automotive industry. The primary objective of the visit is to encourage these leaders to consider expanding their operations in the state, thereby fostering job creation and economic growth.
In a statement, Governor Whitmer stressed the importance of global outreach, as Michigan competes with other nations to attract investments and bring jobs and supply chains back to the state. She expressed her unwavering commitment to travel anywhere and collaborate with anyone in her efforts to strengthen the state’s economy.
As part of her five-day trip, Governor Whitmer inaugurated a Michigan office in Taiwan. This office will be spearheaded by KC Kong, a graduate with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and a master’s degree in biomedical engineering from the University of Michigan.
The primary goal of this international office is to bolster the manufacturing sector in Michigan. Notably, 2021 data indicates that approximately 15% of the state’s labor force is employed in the industry, with a focus on the production of motor vehicles and their parts.
The global automotive industry faced challenges during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly with shortages of semiconductor chips. This disruption in the supply chain prompted manufacturers to focus on diversification to enhance their competitive edge.
Amidst this push toward diversification, companies such as S.K Siltron, a Chinese-owned semiconductor wafer manufacturer, expanded its operations in Bay City. Additionally, Japan’s DENSO made a $63 million investment to retool production lines in Battle Creek. Governor Whitmer’s previous visit to Europe also resulted in commitments from companies to establish operations in the state.
Although the automotive industry faced a setback when Ford announced the scaling back of its plans for a $3.5 billion battery facility in Michigan, industry experts remain optimistic about the future of the automotive sector in Michigan.
Highlighting Michigan’s partnerships in Asia, three Taiwanese car manufacturing firms are poised to expand their presence in the state. Tun Thih Electronics, a maker of automotive radar systems, is set to expand to a new location in Northville. Similarly, TYC Americas, a manufacturer of automotive lighting, plans to add a new location in Wixom. Sumeeko, a manufacturer of automotive fasteners, is also expanding its operations at a new location in Fraser.
Governor Whitmer’s visit to Asia serves as a testament to Michigan’s commitment to fostering strong ties with the global automotive industry. By encouraging international partnerships and investments, the state aims to fortify its position in the automotive sector and create new opportunities for economic growth.
+ There are no comments
Add yours