José Muñoz’s Post

Last week, IEDC's Executive Vice President of Talent and Workforce Tony Denhart joined Japan-America Society of Indiana, Inc.'s 2024 Currents Symposium in Indianapolis to celebrate the strong partnership between Indiana and Japan. Tony spoke about Indiana's unprecedented economic momentum and how we're a global destination for companies from around the world with Japan being the Hoosier state's largest foreign direct investor and our fifth-largest trading partner. What started with an investment by Subaru more than 40 years ago has grown into a robust partnership. More than 300 Japanese businesses now have facilities in Indiana, providing 55,000 jobs across the state. Indiana and Japan are driving each other's economies forward. Together, we're both positioned to lead the economy of the future. Subaru of Indiana Automotive #indiana #japan #foreigninvestment #foreigntrade #partnerships

Embracing Strenghts: Germany’s Global Reputation for Innovation and Quality 🌍   In the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to engage in conversations with many international customers, partners and colleagues about Germany’s role on the global stage. One key takeway has stood out: the outside world still has a positive view of Germany – especially when it comes to innovation, quality and our “Made in Germany” reputation.   Despite some of the negative narratives we hear internally in Germany, it’s important to remember that Germany is still seen as a global leader in manufacturing, engineering and technology. Our reputation for precision, reliability and high-quality products remains strong and that trust is not easily shaken.   Here is what I’ve learned and observed:   ✅ German products and solutions are still highly valued across the globe 
– our engineering excellence is synonymous with reliability and durability - from machine tools to high-tech solutions   ✅ SMEs are the backbone of our economy. 
Many of them are innovators, continually adapting to market needs and creating cutting-edge solutions in sectors like manufacturing. These companies embody the spirit of “Mittelstand” – the driving force of Germany’s economy.   ✅ Partnership and collaboration are key to success. We have strong global ties with customers and partners. Our role as a bridge between Europe and the rest of the world is more relevant than ever.   🌍 The conversations I’ve been having lately are about changing the narrative inside Germany. While it is true we face challenges – whether it’s economic uncertainty, geopolitical shifts or global competition – let’s not forget our many strengths!   🇪🇺 A strong Germany means a strong Europe. Together, let’s highlight our strengths and inspire confidence in what Germany and Europe can achieve! 📷 Anne Hufnagl

Did you know that Ireland has been contributing to the world with groundbreaking inventions? From the submarine to the modern tractor, these inventions have had a lasting impact on various industries. Learn more about the fascinating history of Irish innovation:

Can Germany’s 150 years of industrial history shift into a climate-neutral, just economy in 25 years? Yes, say "Earth for All Germany" co-authors Till Kellerhoff and Peter Hennicke - but only with a "Giant Leap" of bold, integrated action and investment in the future. Read their new blog marking the publication of "Earth for All Germany", a new book setting out concrete strategies to address the social, economic and environmental challenges facing the country ⏩ https://lnkd.in/dKjCWAAx

It was a pleasure to visit Huntsville, Alabama hosted by NAITA (North Alabama International Trade Association). During this visit, we had the incredible opportunity to tour the Mazda Toyota Manufacturing , gaining insights into the advanced manufacturing process, and innovation in the automotive industry! Additionally we explored HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, a renowned biotechnology institute and visited #Cummings research park to learn about cutting-edge research and development initiatives in the area. Thanks to Amanda Berkey, CGBP and Anne W. Burkett, CGBP for your incredible hospitality and opportunity to discuss international trade, collaboration and growth opportunities between Ontario and Alabama.  #Ontario and #Alabama have a significant bilateral trade relationship valued at $US4.5Billion, with opportunities for further collaboration and growth! There are an estimated 36 Ontario owned companies operating in Alabama! Ontario's total trade with the US in 2022 reached a approximate value of US$347 billion. If Ontario were considered a separate country, it would rank as the third-largest trading partner in the world for the US. #InternationalTrade #collaboration #Partnership #GlobalBusiness #trademission #Friendsandneighbour Invest Ontario, Invest Ottawa, ONeconomy | ÉconomieON, Energy | Énergie, Ontario Centre of Innovation, MaRS Discovery District, Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association (APMA) Made in Alabama - Alabama Department of Commerce, Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, BIO Alabama

Currently underway in St. Petersburg is the SPIEF forum. Despite the collective West's tendency to demonize Russia and inundate its society with propaganda suggesting "Russia is on the brink of collapse," the facts paint a different picture. Even if one adheres to the narrative propagated by the collective West, the BRICS alliance illustrates a contrasting reality. With 17,000 participants from 136 countries, numerous dialogues are scheduled in the SPIEF-2024 program, including the EAEU - ASEAN, Russia - Africa, Russia - Latin America, Russia - China, Russia - South Africa, all aimed at fostering greater cooperation and economic interests. The SPIEF forum of 2023 clearly demonstrated that, despite the "turbulence" in the global economy, many countries are willing to build bridges of understanding and collaboration. This counters the claims made by the collective West. Opportunities for businesses within the BRICS alliance are plentiful. #dialogue #BRICSsummit2024 #woutervanderwiel https://lnkd.in/gbFUVCSP

Currently ongoing: The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) is an event dating back to 1997. This year, over 17,000 participants from 136 countries and regions have confirmed their attendance at SPIEF-2024. Notably, the agenda features four main themes: "Transition to the multipolar model of the world economy," "Russian economy: goals and objectives of the new cycle," "Technologies providing leadership," and "Healthy society, traditional values, and social development - government priorities." This agenda clearly indicates that the BRICS is gearing towards a multipolar order, emphasizing collaboration and traditional values. Additionally, more than ten dialogues are scheduled in the SPIEF-2024 program, including the EAEU - ASEAN, Russia - Africa, Russia - Latin America, Russia - China, Russia - South Africa, and others. Good news for automobile manufacturers within the BRICS alliance is that the Chinese luxury automobile brand Hongqi is the official sponsor of SPIEF 2024. Hongqi is a Chinese luxury automobile marque owned by the automaker FAW Car Company. It is one of the oldest car brands in China and is known for producing high-end vehicles. Hongqi vehicles are often used in official ceremonies and parades, symbolizing prestige and status. The brand has a rich history dating back to the 1950s and has undergone several transformations over the years to become the luxury marque it is today. Hongqi has been looking to expand its presence in international markets, particularly in regions with growing demand for luxury vehicles, such as the Middle East, Russia, and ASEAN, Asian markets. https://lnkd.in/g8d62z88 #hongqi #BRICSsummit2024 #Newcleverthings #SPIEF #businessdevelopment

🎉 Today marks Trinity Indo-Pacific Partners' First Anniversary! 🎊 A special happy moment filled with gratitude to all our Stakeholders and well-wishers! In just one year, Sam Maresh, Mahesh Palashikar 🇮🇳 and Eriko Asai, have laid a solid foundation for the company, with a purpose of "Bridging Businesses Across #Australia, #India, and #Japan." Reflecting on this journey, we have enjoyed: - Immersive market explorations in India, Australia, Japan, and #Singapore, engaging with multi-lateral stakeholders across sectors - Earning trust and confidence of clients by winning nine projects in four countries - Strengthening company's operations We take immense pride in sharing knowledge and creating value for clients with the highest standards of ethics, integrity and values. Your continued encouragement and support mean the world to us. Here's to many more milestones together! 🌟 #indopacific #strategicadvisory #leadership #leadershipadvisory #cxoadvisory #boardadvisory #marketentry #marketaccess #marketgrowth #technology #manufacturing #services #sustainability #energytransition #cleanenergy #renewableenergy #decarbonization #greenhydrogen #greenammonia #infrastructure

#ThoughtsofaCEO As CEO of PWO Group I am delighted to share insights from my recent visit to Auto China. I was thoroughly impressed by the sense of enthusiasm and optimism both within the exhibition halls and on the bustling streets of Beijing. The unveiling of numerous world premieres offered fascinating glimpses into the visionary endeavors of Chinese OEMs in shaping the future of #mobility. Once again, #China reaffirmed its pivotal role and influence in the global #automotive industry. It was a pleasure to explore diverse perspectives with Hildegard Müller (President of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA)), Gary G. (CEO of PWO China) and David Xu (CEO of Bosch China). The sheer size of the Chinese market undeniably demands attention: With 25.8 million new registrations in 2023, it nearly rivaled the combined scale of the European and US markets. This underscores the indispensable nature of China within the automotive industry, a reality that cannot be overlooked by anyone who wants to be a global leader in our industry. As Chinese OEMs and their supply chains are vigorously challenging European OEMs with their innovative strength and speed, we should welcome this spirited competition and use the momentum coming from China to in some areas catch up again and in other areas strengthen our own competitive advantages. Of course, there are many challenges that require an open dialogue and a joint effort to deal with different perspectives. Embracing protectionism e.g. by implementing import duties is a counterproductive stance. Fostering a climate of robust competitiveness is of paramount importance for the sustainable vitality of the industry. However, such endeavors hinge upon a supportive policy framework. Time is of the essence. The German government and European politicians must finally make strengthening domestic industry their priority. It puzzles me that despite the increasingly urgent pleas from industry stakeholders, by now even in alignment with labor unions, the German government and the EU remain hesitant to heed these calls. #Germany requires the best framework conditions worldwide as an industrial location in order to seize the opportunity to lead the automotive industry into a future characterized by innovation, sustainability and growth. #PeoplePlanetProgress #automotiveindustry

Canada has “a lot of innovative people and a lot of innovative companies” within a new “industrial revolution”. In this fascinating conversation between Accelerate-Accélérer board directors, Bruce Johnson, EVP Martinrea International Innovation Development and Michelle LLambias Meunier, CEO of Propulsion Quebec, they discuss how to support homegrown innovations and firms to industrialize and commercialize across various segments of the ZEV industry.