Representative Ed Royce: Making Connections with Asian-American Communities

Promoting economic prosperity is at the top of my agenda, and I know that the cross-border movement of goods and services is vital to the long-term health of the American economy. That’s why I recently led a bipartisan delegation to South Korea and Taiwan to expand U.S. trade opportunities and establish new partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region.
America has a great friend in South Korea and Taiwan, and our continued partnership is vital to the peace and stability of the Korean peninsula. As Kim Jong Un’s threats grow, we must strengthen the bonds between our two countries – including trade that provides good jobs for both Americans and South Koreans.
Keep scrolling below to see pictures from my trip and to read more about the new job opportunities coming our way… 

Rep. Royce and Rep. Ami Bera (CA-07) meeting with Chairman of CJ Group  Sohn Kyung-Shik (pictured center) in Seoul, South Korea.

During my visit to Seoul South Korea, I met with leaders from CJ Group and SPC Group. Both companies have announced plans to expand investment in the United States—including right here in the 39^th district! The announcement by CJ Group includes:

• Investment of approximately $5 million in 2018 to expand food manufacturing operations at its facility in Fullerton, California, which will lead to an estimated 30 new jobs.

• Investment over the next two years of approximately $90 million to construct a ready-meal manufacturing plant in Southern California, which will lead to an estimated 200 new jobs.

SPC Group Chairman Hur Young-in (pictured below) announced that the company is planning to increase the number of Paris Baguette stores in the U.S. to 300 by 2020 creating up to 10,000 new jobs. Click HERE to learn more.

Rep. Royce meeting with Chairman of SPC Group Hur Young-in (pictured center).

Rep. Royce and members of the U.S. delegation met with the Mayor of Taoyuan, Cheng Wen-tsan (pictured third from left), and China Airlines Chairman Ho Nuan-hsuan (pictured far right).

During my first day in Taiwan, I met with the Mayor of Taoyuan, Cheng Wen-tsan, to discuss economic opportunities for both Americans and Taiwanese. I am grateful to Mayor Cheng for extending such a warm welcome to the U.S. delegation.
As Taiwan’s gateway to the world, I know that Mayor Cheng understands the importance of the free flow of tourism, goods, and services.  I look forward to growing the U.S.-Taiwan economic partnership — it is a win-win for both American and Taiwanese businesses. Click HERE to learn more.

Rep. Royce meeting with Henry Cheng, Acting Chairman and CEO of 85℃USA Division.

Taiwan continues to invest substantially in Southern California. 85C is a thriving business that has, introduced Taiwanese-style bakery products to a mainstream audience. They have created roughly 1,000 jobs throughout the 39th Congressional district.The success of 85C is a phenomenon that has swept the country and I’m thrilled to learn that they plan to continue growing and providing more job opportunities in California.Click HERE to learn more.

Rep. Royce and Mayor Cheng Wen-tsan seated in a China Airlines simulator.

Since Taiwan was granted visa waiver status–something I championed–travel between our two countries has increased by fifty percent.  The demand for direct flights from Taiwan to Southern California, not only for family and friends to visit one another but also for business opportunities, is high. That is why I have been working to secure direct flights from Taoyuan to Ontario for some time.
There is no question, Taiwanese entrepreneurs are contributing to jobs and economic growth in Southern California. That is why China Airlines’ recent announcement to evaluate the launch of direct flights from Taoyuan, Taiwan to Ontario, California is welcome news.  And I hope it leads to more trade and investment opportunities for both the U.S. and Taiwan. Click HERE to learn more about this exciting announcement. 

Sincerley,

Representative Ed Royce