Eugene Chamber Hosts Kakegawa Delegation, Celebrating 45 Years of Sister City Partnership

On August 5th, the Eugene Chamber of Commerce hosted a delegation from Kakegawa, Japan, strengthening diplomatic ties and exploring economic opportunities. The visiting dignitaries included Kakegawa Mayor Yuzo Yamamoto and City Council Chair Takashi Kubota, along with city staff and other representatives. The Eugene Chamber was represented by Tiffany Edwards, VP of Policy and Community Development, and Dana Siebert of Onward Eugene, who warmly welcomed the group.

The event featured participation from Eugene city staff and officials, including Council President Matt Keating, Councilor Randy Groves, and Mayor Lucy Vinis. Local business leaders, including representatives from Yogi Tea and Darcey Howard from Eugene’s Table, presented on the local food and beverage sector, highlighting shared economic interests.

Kakegawa, an agricultural community renowned for its green tea production and food products, shared insights into its culture and economy, even offering a green tea tasting and presenting gifts from the region. They also introduced Kakegawa’s Junior Economy College, a program launched in 2010 by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to educate middle-school students on business fundamentals.

The visit marked the 45th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Eugene and Kakegawa, established in 1979, and underscored the enduring connection between the two cities.