Mired in a decade-long economic slump, Japan may not seem to be the most eager country to engage in massive direct investment abroad. But Lee Harrington, president and CEO of the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corp., doesn't see it that way.
Ongoing restructuring in Japan has eroded the traditional business relationships between large companies and midsize ones, forcing those dependent on subcontracting to find new businesses and new partners.
And these are just the companies LAEDC wants. With other Japanese firms already operating in Los Angeles, now may be a good time to take a chance on something new in a diverse and upbeat market.