DES MOINES, Iowa, Jan. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- As Japan continues its economic growth, it is actively seeking businesses in the U.S. that may be able to share in that growth, through opportunities for collaboration and business development in Japan. To help Iowa businesses learn how to take advantage of these opportunities, The Greater Des Moines Partnership, the Iowa Department of Economic Development, and the Chicago office of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) will present a unique half-day program, entitled "Inside - Outside Japan," on Wednesday, January 31, 2007, from 8:30 a.m. until noon. The program will be held at the John & Mary Pappajohn Education Center, 1200 Grand Avenue in Des Moines.

This program is an excellent opportunity to learn of the many facets of the marketplace in Japan today, combining practical advice and the first-hand experiences of American executives.

Scheduled speakers include JETRO Chicago's Chief Executive Director, Takashi Tsuchiya, who will provide an update on Japan's economy and the Japan-Midwest economic relationship, and will describe JETRO's services designed to help develop business in Japan. Paul Yamaguchi, President of Yamaguchi & Associates, Inc., will offer his expertise on Japan's nutraceutical market, and business opportunities and practical guidance on product entry. Steven Gan, President of Stellar Risk Management Services, Inc., will provide his firsthand experience about how he developed his own business in Japan and the challenges he encountered. Time for discussion, questions and networking will be included.

"Iowa has traditionally had a strong business relationship with Japan," commented Mr. Tsuchiya. "We hope that this session will introduce a new segment of the local business community to the great potential of entering the Japanese market. We know that success begins with the simple exchange of ideas."

Program details: Date: Wednesday, January 31, 2007 Time: Networking continental breakfast begins at 8:30 a.m., with program registration at 10:00 a.m.; Presentations will run from 10:30 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.; followed by a networking reception. Location: John & Mary Pappajohn Education Center, 1200 Grand Avenue, Des Moines Registration/cost: The program registration fee is $20, which includes continental breakfast. Students can register free with a student ID. To register, contact Lisa Mason, Iowa Dept. of Economic Development, at 515-242-4883, lisa.mason@iowalifechanging.com. Questions? Contact Kelly Denewellis, JETRO Chicago, at 312-832-6022, kelly_denewellis@jetro.go.jp; or Lisa Mason, Iowa Dept. of Economic Development, at 515-242-4883, lisa.mason@iowalifechanging.com.

About JETRO: JETRO has provided information and support to American companies entering the Japanese market for over 50 years. Through a local network of six offices in the United States, JETRO provides a wide-range of services, such as timely market intelligence, extensive business development support, and relevant business events, all designed to encourage business partnerships between American companies and Japan. JETRO Chicago provides services to companies and organizations in 12 Midwest states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, Missouri, Kansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Ohio and Nebraska.

CONTACT: Kelly Denewellis, +1-312-832-6000,
kelly_denewellis@jetro.go.jp , or Jerry Mayeroff, Mayeroff and Associates,
+1-773-761-0868, jerry@mayeroff.com , both for Japan External Trade
Organization (JETRO Chicago)