A Night of Stars and Stripes
ACCJ members and partners celebrated 250 years of American independence.
ACCJ members and partners celebrated 250 years of American independence.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) hosted its annual Independence Day celebration on July 1 at Tokyo American Club to mark a huge milestone: the United States’ 250th birthday.
More than 430 members, guests, and partners from the US and Japanese governments gathered for a night of delicious food, inspiring music, and meaningful networking.
After emcee Connor Myers’s opening remarks and Japanese American recording artist Aisha’s rousing rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” ACCJ President Eric John welcomed everyone to the special evening.
“We are fortunate to be living and working in Japan in a period where US–Japan bilateral ties are the strongest they have ever been, and our relationship is also the most important alliance in the world,” said John, a retired US ambassador. “At the same time, our business ties are the healthiest they have been. In part, that is due to the tireless work of the US embassy in collaborating with our chamber and advocating on behalf of our incredible member companies.”
He also noted that the power of the ACCJ comes from its 3,000-plus members, including those who volunteer their time to serve on the Board of Governors and as committee leaders. “Our success is entirely due to the dedication of all of you. Now is the time to rethink and act together on what the business community can do to shape our shared future and strengthen our resilience.”
Minister-Counselor John Breidenstine from the commercial affairs section of the US Embassy, Tokyo gave the Independence Day address.
“Two hundred and fifty years ago, a group of extraordinarily troublesome men gathered in Philadelphia and did something the world had never seen before. They argued, they debated, they exasperated one another, and in the end, they changed history,” he said. “America has never been a finished project. It is an ongoing argument, a continuing experiment, a promise being renewed in every generation. Tonight, in the company of friends, allies, and partners, both American and Japanese, we renew it again.”
Breidenstine then raised a glass and led everyone in a celebratory kampai, toasting not only America’s birthday but the bilateral partnerships, friendships, and collaborations represented in the room.
As food service opened up with a classic American barbecue-inspired menu paired with wine from the California Wine Institute, Fender Japan Director of Regional Sales Yasuhiko Yajima introduced the night’s headline performer, legendary American guitarist Marty Friedman. Well known as the lead guitarist of American thrash metal band Megadeth, Friedman moved to Japan in 2004 to pursue his love of the country, language, and a desire to perform with Japanese musicians. He was named an ambassador of Japanese heritage by the Agency for Cultural Affairs in 2016.
Following a spectacular performance by Friedman and his band, members and guests continued networking in the New York Ballroom and across the way in the RGA Music and Dessert Lounge, where Baskin-Robbins served up a special Fourth of July-themed ice cream sundae.
Also on display in the lounge were limited-edition commemorative Bluetooth speakers created by event partner ELAC exclusively for the ACCJ. Inspired by 250 years of American innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit and limited to 100 units, the collectible, which combines bold sound, timeless design, and a touch of patriotic flair, was part of the evening’s lucky draw giveaway.
Made possible by the generous support of Aflac, Boeing Japan, and Harley-Davidson, which contributed at the highest level as Stars and Stripes sponsors, along with Liberty Bell sponsors Uber for Business and the National Basketball Association, as well as Red, White, and Blue sponsors Seibu Prince Hotels and Resorts, the evening was a fitting tribute to the enduring nature not only of the United States, but also to the dedication of the ACCJ and its members to ensuring that the country’s relationship with Japan continues to flourish for centuries to come.
Strategic Dialogue
ACCJ leaders visited Washington in June to discuss security, economic, and strategic partnerships.
ACCJ leaders visit Washington to discuss security, economic ties, and shared challenges.
The 2026 ACCJ DC Doorknock delegates gather in front of the US Capitol.
On June 23 and 24, a delegation of nine executives representing the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) visited Washington, DC, for the chamber’s annual DC Doorknock. The trip is an important part of the ACCJ’s advocacy efforts and strengthens US–Japan relations.
ACCJ President Eric John was joined by Chairman Christopher LaFleur, Executive Director Laura Younger, members of the Board of Governors, and Japan-based chief executives and country heads of US corporations.
As the voice of global business in Japan, the ACCJ provided strategic recommendations to address critical issues impacting US companies and outlined measures to expand the strong US–Japan economic alliance.
The delegation met with members of Congress and the administration for discussions on a range of topics, including the bilateral trade agreement, Japan’s $550 billion investment pledge, and ways to shape trade and economic policy outcomes in both the United States and Japan.
While welcoming progress under the 2025 US–Japan trade agreements to expand market access, the delegation emphasized that persistent nontariff barriers continue
to impede growth and innovation. The chamber reaffirmed its support for reducing these barriers, boosting investment, and enhancing regulatory transparency to strengthen bilateral trade and create shared economic benefits.
Over two days they met with Senators Bill Hagerty and Tammy Duckworth, Representative Joaquin Castro, and officials from key US government agencies, including the Department of Commerce, the Office of the US Trade Representative, the Department of State, and others.
The ACCJ’s recommendations target six critical sectors shaping the US–Japan economic alliance: healthcare, digital economy, aerospace and defense, financial services, energy, and automotive. The ACCJ urges both governments to address remaining trade barriers in these industries to strengthen a bilateral partnership that supported $324 billion in goods and services traded in 2025.
“This year’s DC Doorknock highlighted the continued strength and momentum of the US–Japan economic partnership and provided an important opportunity for the ACCJ to advance key priorities across our advocacy focus sectors,” said John. “We were encouraged by the strong recognition throughout the US government of the strategic importance of the US–Japan relationship and by the continued progress being made to deepen investment, strengthen economic ties, and address shared challenges.”
For more about the meetings, read the official press release in English or Japanese.
Advancing Dialogue
A delegation of seven leaders from the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) traveled to Washington, DC in December for the 2025 DC Doorknock. The visit carried forward momentum from April’s DC recon trip and reinforced the chamber’s sustained engagement with US policymakers.
ACCJ leaders make their most extensive post-pandemic Washington visit.
A delegation of seven leaders from the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) traveled to Washington, DC in December for the 2025 DC Doorknock. The visit carried forward momentum from April’s DC recon trip and reinforced the chamber’s sustained engagement with US policymakers. Representing the digital, aerospace and defense, energy, and finance, sectors, the group carried a unified message that reflected both recent progress and the work that still lies ahead in the bilateral economic relationship.
Over two days, the delegation completed one of the most comprehensive DC schedules the ACCJ has executed in recent years. Meetings included four US senators and senior officials at the Departments of Commerce, Treasury, and State, as well as the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and other key agencies. These conversations allowed the ACCJ to reaffirm support for the administration’s recent achievements, including the US–Japan trade agreement and the successful Japan summit, while underscoring persistent nontariff barriers detailed in the ACCJ’s recent submissions to the USTR.
ACCJ President Victor Osumi noted the significance of this year’s program. “The Doorknock is one of our most important advocacy tools because it gives us direct insight into US priorities while allowing us to elevate the voice of American business in Japan,” he said. “This year’s meetings showed real momentum, and I left Washington encouraged by how open officials were to our ideas and how eager they were for continued dialogue.”
A central theme throughout the visit was the shift in Washington from dealmaking to execution. Officials emphasized that implementation is still in its early stages and encouraged the ACCJ and its member companies to play a role in proactively identifying opportunities for investment in the two nations. They also highlighted ongoing efforts to build secure supply chains for critical minerals and emerging technologies, and expressed interest in supporting member companies in advancing these goals.
There was additionally broad interest in Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and how her premiership may shape the next stage of US–Japan relations. The delegation returned to Tokyo with a clear mandate to continue driving member priorities during this important period of transition.
2024 DC Doorknock
During the 2024 DC Doorknock, ACCJ delegates met with leaders in Washington, DC, to discuss security, economic, and strategic partnerships.
The 2024 ACCJ DC Doorknock delegates gather in front of the US Capitol.
From June 3 to 6, American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) leaders made their visit to Washington, DC, as part of the chamber’s annual DC Doorknock visits. These trips are an important part of the ACCJ’s advocacy efforts and strengthen US–Japan relations.
ACCJ President Victor Osumi was joined by Special Advisor Steve Briggs, Governor Hans Klemm, Chairman Christopher LaFleur, Executive Director Laura Younger, and Bank of America's Tamao Sasada.
Diversity & Inclusion Summit Series Day 3
The ACCJ hosted its first in-person Diversity & Inclusion Summit since the pandemic on Day 3 of the "Unleashing the Power of Inclusion" series.
Participants in the first in-person Diversity & Inclusion Summit since the pandemic gathered on Day 3 of the Unleashing the Power of Inclusion series.
The ACCJ hosted its first in-person Diversity & Inclusion Summit since the pandemic on November 28. Day 3 of the series was entitled Unleashing the Power of Inclusion.
The event, held at the Intercontinental Hotel Osaka, featured a panel discussion with:
- Simone Thomsen, president and representative director, Eli Lilly Japan K.K.
- Steve Briggs, president, Northeast Asia, Kraft Heinz
- Haruko Watanabe, representative director, president, and chief executive officer, American Home Assurance Company, Ltd.; director and vice chairman, AIG Japan Holdings KK
- Lavanya Wadgaonkar, global vice president, communications and global DEI champion, Nissan Motor Co. Ltd.
- Nuala Connolly, head of talent, DEI country lead, and deputy head of HR, AIG Japan
Hosted by the Kansai Diversity & Inclusion, Women in Business, and Kansai Business Programs Committees, the three days of training sessions, workshops, and discussions aimed to create safe and inclusive environments in the workplace.
2023 DC Doorknock
During the first full DC Doorknock since 2019, ACCJ delegates met with leaders in Washington, DC, to discuss security, economic, and strategic partnerships.
The 2023 ACCJ DC Doorknock delegates gather in front of the US Capitol.
On September 12 and 13, American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) leaders made their first full visit to Washington, DC, since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. These DC Doorknock visits are an important part of the ACCJ’s advocacy efforts and strengthen US–Japan relations.
ACCJ President Om Prakash was joined by Vice Presidents Jason Hyland and Victor Osumi; Governors Hans Klemm, Frank Packard, and Will Shaffer; Treasurer Steven Briggs; Special Adviser Christopher LaFleur; Digital Forum Vice-Chair Kristopher Tate; and Executive Director Laura Younger.
The delegation was warmly welcomed by administration officials, members of Congress, and officials from the Embassy of Japan and the US Chamber of Commerce. Topics of discussion included security, economic, and strategic partnerships.
2022 DC Doorknock
ACCJ leaders made their first DC Doorknock visit to Washington since before the pandemic June 14–16. View a selection of photos from the event.
From left: ACCJ Executive Director Laura Younger, President Om Prakash, Chair Eriko Asai, and Governor Victor Osumi
American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) leaders made their first DC Doorknock visit to Washington since before the pandemic June 14–16. ACCJ President Om Prakash was joined by Chair Eriko Asai, Governor Victor Osumi, Special Advisor Christopher LaFleur, and Executive Director Laura Younger as they engaged face-to-face with members of the executive branch and Congress.
The annual DC Doorknock, which was canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid-19, is an important part of the ACCJ’s dialogue with the US Government and is key to the chamber’s advocacy efforts. The delegation received a warm welcome from administration officials, members of the Senate and House of Representatives, the Embassy of Japan, the US Chamber of Commerce, and various think tanks.
“There’s energy and urgency in the US–Japan partnership on all fronts—from the economy to national security,” said Prakash, “[and] we are pleased and encouraged to see the United States leading in the region, and the heightened role Japan has taken on the world stage.”
