Guwahati, August 14, 2026: Assam is exploring new avenues to strengthen economic ties with Japan and attract greater Japanese investment following a meeting between the state’s Chief Secretary and a delegation from the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO).
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| Assam Chief Secretary meets a JETRO delegation to explore stronger Japan–Assam economic ties, investment opportunities and partnerships across key sectors including electronics, renewable energy, tea and tourism. (Image: X/CSAssam_) |
The JETRO delegation was led by Toshiaki Sato, Deputy Director, and included Haruka Maruyama, Senior Director, and Sandeep Kumar Singh, Assistant Director, JETRO New Delhi.
The discussions focused on deepening Japan–Assam economic engagement and creating stronger pathways for Japanese companies to invest and establish business partnerships in the state. Several priority sectors were identified, including semiconductors and electronics manufacturing, compressed biogas, renewable energy, pumped storage, logistics, tea and golf tourism, defence and aerospace, as well as emerging industries.
The meeting also highlighted Assam’s growing potential in specialty tea production, particularly following the successful introduction of Matcha in the state. Officials said the initiative could create stronger linkages with Japanese investors and tea companies while helping Assam tap into growing global demand for premium and specialty teas.
Another key area of discussion was the “Tea & Teeing” initiative, which seeks to combine Assam’s tea heritage with golf tourism. With more than 18 golf courses located within tea gardens across the state, Assam aims to gradually position these destinations on the global golf circuit, creating new opportunities in tourism, hospitality and sports.
The possibility of establishing a State-to-State cooperation agreement between Assam and Shizuoka Prefecture was also discussed. The proposed partnership could strengthen institutional relations and promote collaboration across mutually beneficial sectors.
The Assam government expressed optimism over JETRO’s continued support in connecting Japanese enterprises with the state’s investment ecosystem. The engagement is expected to facilitate technology partnerships, value addition, employment opportunities and sustainable economic development while strengthening Assam’s role as a gateway for Japanese investment in the Northeast.
