Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has begun a trade mission to Japan and Singapore, according to her office. The trip comes as state lawmakers face an Oct. 1 deadline to approve Michigan’s next budget.
The governor is leading the delegation with the Michigan Economic Development Corp. (MEDC). This marks the first official trade mission by a Michigan governor to Singapore. Details on how long Whitmer will be out of state were not disclosed.
“Singapore is one of the most dynamic economies in the world, a global hub for finance, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy,” Whitmer said in a statement. “By making this first-of-its-kind visit, we are opening the door for new trade opportunities, building connections with business leaders and showing that Michigan is a reliable and innovative partner for the future.”
Negotiations over Michigan’s budget have been ongoing for months between Whitmer’s office, the Democratic-led Senate, and the Republican-controlled House. The Legislature missed its own July 1 deadline to finalize the budget. If lawmakers do not pass a budget by Oct. 1—the start of Michigan’s fiscal year—parts of state government could shut down due to lack of funding.
Whitmer could still participate in negotiations remotely while traveling in Asia. However, her absence has drawn criticism from some officials in Lansing. On Friday, Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt commented on social media about Whitmer being overseas rather than working on securing a state budget.
During her trip, Whitmer and her delegation will meet with company executives, government officials, alumni from Michigan universities, and trade representatives. The group will also attend the Midwest U.S.–Japan Association Conference scheduled for Sept. 7-9 in Tokyo.
This is Whitmer’s fourth international trip in 2025. Earlier this year she traveled to Australia during initial budget talks in June; she also led delegations to the United Kingdom and Ireland in March and visited the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain in February.
Traveling with Whitmer are Quentin L. Messer Jr., CEO of MEDC; Joe Sobieralski, president and CEO of Battle Creek Unlimited; Justin Fischer, mayor of Novi; David Coulter, executive of Oakland County; and Mark Behnke, mayor of Battle Creek.
“I am honored to join Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the MEDC on this mission to Japan,” Behnke said. “Battle Creek has been building relationships with Japanese companies for more than 50 years.”
The cost of this trip is covered by funds from MEDC as well as support from the nonprofit Michigan Economic Development Foundation.
