U.S. Chamber and U.S.-Japan Business Council Announce Integration

‘This Is a Win-Win for Our Organizations and for the
Businesses we Represent,’ Says Donohue

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and U.S.-Japan Business Council (USJBC) announced today the integration of the two organizations, effective immediately.

“This is a win-win for our organizations and for the businesses we represent,” said Thomas J. Donohue, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber.  “By bringing together the USJBC’s expertise on Japan and the Chamber’s strong platform and programs in Washington and Asia, we can maximize the value to U.S. companies with interests in Japan and the region.”

This is a timely moment for the integration given the important issues on the bilateral economic agenda, including Japan’s possible participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations, the potential for new levels of cooperation on energy, and need for pro-business policies that will support trade and stronger economic growth in both economies.  The USJBC will continue to set its priorities and positions on these and other bilateral economic issues while operating as part of the Chamber.

“The USJBC’s official alignment with the U.S. Chamber will amplify the voice of the American business community on U.S.-Japan economic relations,” said Charles D. Lake, chairman of the USJBC.  “Japan is a critical market for many U.S. companies, and we have major opportunities to do even more trade with Japan.  With the Chamber’s broad reach and influence, and on-the-ground insight and effort from U.S. executives in Tokyo affiliated with the USJBC, we will continue to work aggressively and effectively with both governments and the private sectors to strengthen our economic relationship.”

USJBC President James Fatheree will retain the title of president and chief operating officer and continue to be responsible for day-to-day operations of the USJBC while assuming broader responsibilities as senior director of the U.S. Chamber for Japan and Korea.

“We are delighted to bring Jim on board to lead the Chamber’s Japan-related activities,” said Myron Brilliant, the Chamber’s senior vice president for international affairs.  “His experience and expertise will be invaluable as we develop a robust policy and program agenda aimed at expanding bilateral business ties and opportunities.”
The USJBC represents major U.S. companies doing business in Japan across a wide range of industrial and service sectors.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.