[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 152 (Thursday, September 24, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S4983]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING TOYOTA AND THE U.S.-JAPAN PARTNERSHIP

 Mr. TILLIS. Madam President, I rise today to recognize 
Toyota's extraordinary commitment to North Carolina and to commemorate 
the 50th anniversary of the Japanese Automobile Manufacturers 
Association.
  Toyota's nearly $14 billion battery manufacturing facility in Liberty 
represents one of the most significant economic development investments 
in our State's history. When fully staffed, the facility is expected to 
support 5,100 high-skill American jobs and further establish North 
Carolina as a leader in advanced manufacturing.
  What makes this investment particularly meaningful is the broader 
commitment Toyota has made to the communities it calls home. Long 
before production began, the company worked with schools, colleges, and 
local partners to help build a workforce prepared for the opportunities 
created by this facility. That effort underscores the importance of 
connecting education and training with the skills employers need.
  Toyota's commitment to North Carolina also extends beyond 
manufacturing. Its support for local nonprofits, small businesses, and 
sustainability projects reflects the kind of long-term community 
partnerships that can accompany major economic investments.
  North Carolina's experience with Toyota is part of a larger story. 
Japanese automakers have invested in American workers and American 
communities for decades. Today, those relationships are helping our 
country expand domestic manufacturing capacity, reinforce critical 
supply chains, and compete in the next generation of automotive 
technology.
  As JAMA marks 50 years representing Japanese-brand automakers in the 
United States, Toyota's growing footprint in North Carolina is a strong 
example of what the economic partnership between our two nations can 
produce.
  I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing JAMA on its 50th 
anniversary and Toyota for its continued investment in North Carolina 
and our communities.

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