Governor Gordon to Lead Wyoming Trade Delegation to Asia

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon will lead a trade delegation to Taiwan and Japan as part of a continuing effort to broaden international markets for the state’s core industries, including natural gas, coal, and rare earth minerals, Wyoming News Now reports.

The delegation includes officials from the State of Wyoming, the University of Wyoming, and energy sector representatives. Their mission is to promote Wyoming’s natural resources, foster economic partnerships, and strengthen existing relationships with Asian markets.

“These are important markets that can have direct impacts on Wyoming’s economic future,” Governor Gordon said in a statement. “This trade mission is about expanding the reach of our state’s core industries into new markets and finding additional partners for these ongoing efforts.”

While abroad, the delegation will meet with key government officials and business leaders interested in Wyoming’s energy products. A highlight of the trip will be a reception at the residence of the Japanese Ambassador.

Wyoming’s ties to Japan date back to 2016 when a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the state and the Japan Carbon Frontier Organization (JCOAL), supporting collaboration on coal research and technology development. JCOAL operates under Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.

In Taiwan, the state’s presence is maintained through the Wyoming-Asia Pacific Trade Office (WAPTO) in Taipei, which has operated since 2018. Wyoming has also participated regularly in the Food Taipei international trade show.

The trade delegation includes Rob Creager, Executive Director of the Wyoming Energy Authority; Holly Krutka, Director of the University of Wyoming’s School of Energy Resources; UW Professor Dr. Jinke Tang; and Paul Ulrich, Vice President of Jonah Energy.

Private sector representatives include Robert Ferguson, Scott Gutberlet, and Andy Moses from Blue Spruce Operating; Shane Schultz, representing Blue Spruce and additional clients; Jeremy Friesen with Kanata; and Steven Furbacher and Chad Bracher of Williams Companies. Andrew Browning from the Western States and Tribal Nations Energy Natural Gas Initiative is also part of the group.