Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley says he used his trip to Japan to strengthen existing relationships with Japanese companies.
Bentley told reporters Monday that his five-day trip focused mostly on relationship building, but also included some economic development and recruitment opportunities.
Bentley says he met with top executives from Honda and Toyota, both of which have operations in Alabama. He also met with executives at Hayashi Telempu, an automotive parts supplier.
He also met with executives from Otsuka Holdings, the parent company of Pharmavite, which has a vitamin plant in Opelika.
In addition, Bentley visited the Japan External Trade Organization, which works to promote trade and investment.
The governor's office has said more than 65 Japanese companies have operations in Alabama, representing an investment of more than $4 billion.