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Gov. Pillen to Lead Trade Mission to Japan and the Philippines
LINCOLN, NE – This weekend, Governor Jim Pillen will embark on a trade mission to Japan and the Philippines. He is heading a state delegation that includes farmers and ranchers, key leaders from the state’s ethanol industry, and innovators in advanced manufacturing. The Nebraska Department of Economic Development is coordinating the trade mission on behalf of the State.
In Japan, the trade delegation will promote Nebraska-grown agricultural products and highlight the state’s ability to make low-carbon biofuels and energy products. Japan has been a reliable trade partner for Nebraska, annually ranking among the top international destinations for the state’s agricultural goods. In 2025, Japan purchased more than a half-billion dollars of beef and pork products from Nebraska. Japan has also set a policy to introduce E10 nationwide by 2030, a plan that — when implemented — will dramatically increase its demand for ethanol. Additionally, Japan is seeking suppliers of cleaner energy as it looks to cut greenhouse gas emissions. With annual ethanol production of more than two billion gallons, and an operational carbon pipeline, Nebraska is well-positioned to meet these biofuel and energy needs.
With a growing population of more than 112 million people, and strong economic performance over the past 15 years, the Philippines is emerging as a major market in Southeast Asia. While in the Philippines, Nebraska’s trade mission will seek to open new markets for agricultural products such as wheat, beef, and ethanol. The Philippines and Japan rank second and third, respectively, as importers of American wheat. More than 20% of U.S. wheat exports go to the two countries. Beef consumption and demand continue to rise in the Philippines. Beef is especially popular among the country’s young, urban middle-class and is increasingly featured on restaurant menus. Meanwhile, the Philippines’ growth has resulted in increased fuel consumption. Currently, the country can produce only 50-55% of the ethanol required to meet its E10 mandate and relies on foreign ethanol for the rest, primarily importing it from the United States.
The United States and the Philippines are commemorating 80 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. This year, the two countries are also marking the 75th anniversary of a mutual defense treaty signed in 1951. Many Nebraskans fought bravely in and around the Philippines during World War II, serving in combat alongside the nation’s Filipino allies. During the trade mission, Nebraska’s delegation will visit Manila America Cemetery to pay their respects to the courageous troops who perished during World War II.
The first leg of the trade mission begins on Sunday in Osaka, Japan. The delegation will then travel to the Philippines on Monday evening local time for the remainder of the mission.
