City of Kobe, Japan (KTIO)

The Kobe Trade Information Office (KTIO) is the U.S. branch office for the city of Kobe, Japan. Established in 1961, it aims to promote business investment and exchange, friendship, and cross-cultural exchange between the United States and Kobe. Kobe, a global industry hub of Japan, is strategically located in the second largest economic area, which includes Osaka and Kyoto, with excellent transport connections to the world. It offers convenient access, such as a 30-minute ferry from Kansai International Airport and 70-minute flight from Tokyo to Kobe Airport. Kobe's major industries include life sciences, IT, and manufacturing, with over 360 life science related companies, research institutions, and hospitals based in the city. The City of Kobe also offers subsidies and tax reductions to companies, including startups, encouraging them to set up an office in Kobe. This is further supported by the city's high number of universities, providing access to a pool of talented employees. The potential and support offered make Kobe an attractive destination for businesses to thrive globally.