News Summary
Governor Jeff Landry’s administration is shifting Louisiana’s economic development focus to attract foreign investors, especially from Japan, Australia, and Europe. Key sectors like energy, aerospace, and manufacturing are targeted, with $550,000 allocated for marketing efforts. This new strategy marks a significant pivot from past broad engagement efforts and aims to position Louisiana as a prime investment destination.
New Orleans, Louisiana – Governor Jeff Landry’s administration is set to revamp the state’s economic development strategy by honing in on attracting foreign investment, particularly from Japan, Australia, and parts of Europe. The Louisiana Economic Development (LED) Secretary Susan Bourgeois has identified key sectors such as energy, aerospace, logistics, and manufacturing as primary targets for this new initiative.
This focused approach marks a significant change from previous strategies that sought to engage a broader range of countries, including China and Brazil. In October 2024, the administration terminated contracts with consultants who were involved in these prior efforts. At a recent meeting of the Louisiana Board of International Commerce on February 25, 2025, officials discussed the new strategy and its implications for the state’s economic landscape.
LED has earmarked $550,000 to finance marketing efforts aimed at potential foreign businesses. This funding is expected to bolster Louisiana’s appeal to international investors, enhancing its competitive edge in the global market. Japan has emerged as one of Louisiana’s top foreign investors, with companies like Shintech actively operating in the region. One notable development is UBE Corporation, a Japanese chemical firm that recently commenced construction on a $500 million manufacturing facility in Waggaman, Louisiana.
Experts highlight Japan’s leadership in key sectors of the economy. Specific strengths are noted in energy, logistics, precision manufacturing, and robotics, making the country a strategic partner for Louisiana’s growth. The state’s representative in Europe will be concentrating efforts on Italy, Germany, and France, particularly in sectors aligned with manufacturing and energy. Germany’s BASF, a global chemical company, already has established operations in Louisiana, signaling the state’s open doors for foreign investment.
In June 2025, Governor Landry attended the International Paris Air Show, a significant event that yielded multiple leads for prospective investments. This initiative comes at a time when Australia is being seen as an emerging market for investment, particularly in energy and defense sectors. Louisiana aims to position itself as a prime location for Australian companies seeking opportunities to expand.
In an effort to solidify exclusive partnerships, Louisiana will require that selected consultants for foreign investments commit to not representing any other U.S. states while working with Louisiana. This move is designed to ensure that the consultants maintain focus and dedication to the state’s economic objectives, fostering a more committed approach toward attracting international businesses.
Despite the concentrated focus on specific countries, officials have emphasized the importance of maintaining a broader global presence. The World Trade Center of New Orleans has indicated plans for an upcoming trade mission to Norway, actively pursuing international opportunities in maritime innovation. This reflects Louisiana’s commitment to expanding its reach and visibility in different markets worldwide.
The Louisiana Economic Development partnership board, along with various C-suite executives, will provide support and strategic advice as the state implements this refined foreign investment strategy. By concentrating on high-potential sectors and prioritizing relationships with select countries, Louisiana aims to enhance its economic development prospects and create sustainable job opportunities for its residents.
As Louisiana embarks on this focused economic development strategy, the state is poised to leverage its advantages in targeted sectors to foster growth and attract investment. The administration’s new direction not only reflects a strategic pivot in how the state engages with foreign markets but also highlights its commitment to driving economic growth through targeted initiatives and international collaboration.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- NOLA: Louisiana’s Foreign Investment Strategy
- Biz New Orleans: Business Incentive Guide
- Louisiana Illuminator: Economic Incentives
- Pulse 2.0: Economic Development Profile
- Weekly Citizen: Event with Governor Landry
- Wikipedia: Economic Development
- Google Search: Louisiana Economic Development
- Google Scholar: Foreign Investment Louisiana
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Economic Development
- Google News: Louisiana Foreign Investment
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
