LINCOLN—Gov. Jim Pillen said Nebraska's four-day trade mission to Japan and the Philippines is a strategic investment in the state's economy that costs taxpayers little, despite the state's ongoing budget-cutting efforts. During the trip, Pillen promoted Nebraska exports, including beef, pork, wheat, and ethanol, highlighting Japan's plan to expand E10 fuel by 2030 and opportunities to increase ethanol exports to the Philippines. The delegation also met with U.S. Ambassador Lee Lipton and visited the Manila American Cemetery to honor American service members.

The trade mission drew criticism after Pillen recently directed state agencies to reduce spending by at least 5%, with former State Sen. Julie Slama questioning the timing and cost of the trip. Pillen responded that private industry partners, including agricultural organizations and businesses, cover most of the travel expenses, leaving only minimal costs to the state. He argued the mission is an investment in expanding Nebraska's international trade relationships and creating long-term economic opportunities rather than unnecessary government spending.

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