Also among the planned destinations are Canada, Mexico, and Germany.
Japan will be the first destination in the 2025-26 season of WEDC’s Global Trade Missions, designed to boost international trade by supporting Wisconsin companies’ efforts to export their products and services into new markets.
As part of the Global Trade Mission to Japan, taking place Sept. 5-13, participating companies will have personalized appointments arranged for them in Tokyo based on their companies’ unique offerings, needs, and growth goals.
“Given the shifting landscape of international trade, it’s more important than ever that Wisconsin delegations visit overseas markets in person to underscore our commitment to forming and maintaining strong relationships and global partnerships,” says Aaron Zitzelsberger, WEDC’s senior director of global trade and investment.
As the world’s third-largest economy, Japan represents a market of opportunity for Wisconsin companies. While U.S. exports to Japan in 2024 totaled $80 billion, Wisconsin’s exports only accounted for $622 million (ranking Japan 11th among Wisconsin export markets). Companies in the sectors of advanced manufacturing; biohealth; food and beverage; and energy, power, and controls are especially encouraged to participate. Find more details and register for the Global Trade Mission to Japan.
Later in 2025 and in the first half of 2026, additional Global Trade Missions will take Wisconsin companies to:
- Canada (Toronto and Montreal), November 2025 (exact dates to be announced)
- Mexico (Monterrey and Mexico City), Feb. 22-28, 2026
- Germany (Frankfurt and Berlin), June 2026 (exact dates to be announced)
Each year, Global Trade Mission destinations are chosen based on a combination of Wisconsin’s top trading partners and the top markets of untapped opportunity (with alignment between what the market needs and what Wisconsin produces). Companies that are interested in participating in upcoming Global Trade Missions, and in being notified when registration opens, should connect with a member of WEDC’s global trade and investment team.
