Visit from our Sister Chamber Hatsukaichi Chamber of Commerce!

Officially declared Sister Chambers in 2006, the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce and the Hatsukaichi Chamber of Commerce and Industry continue to connect each year to perpetuate goodwill and friendly relations.

“The opportunity to interact and build rapport with our friends from Japan promotes an important international connection,” states Wendy Laros Executive Director of the Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce. “For 13 years, we have nurtured a strong relationship that continues to support cultural and social interaction as well as economic and business exchange.”

On November 6 th , the Kona-Kohala Chamber partnered with the Kona Hiroshima Kenjin Kai to host a dinner for the Hatsukaichi Chamber. With a delegation that has grown to almost 40 members, the Hatsukaichi Chamber traveled to Kona for the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival. For the new Chair of the Hatsukaichi Chamber Mr. Shibuya and his wife, this was their 13 th annual trip. Stepping down only a month ago, past Chair Mr. Hosokawa has promoted this Hawaii connection for more than a decade.

“Many young couples joined the delegation this year,” comments Laros. “They are doing a nice job in recruiting the next generation and we look forward to continuing this significant Sister Chamber relationship!”


Leaders from the Hatsukaichi Chamber and Kona-Kohala Chamber meet in Kona. These Sister Chambers meet annually.



Kona Hiroshima Kenjin Kai honor Mr. Hosokawa at a joint celebration with Kona-Kohala Chamber.



Mr. Shibuya, new Chair of the Hatsukaichi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Mr. Hosokawa, Past Chair, look over the 2006 Sister Chamber Declaration with Kona-Kohala Chamber of Commerce.



KKCC Vice Chair of South Kona Pam Latinis enjoys the gathering on November 6th with the Kona Hiroshima Kenjin Kai, Kona-Kohala Chamber and special guests from the Hatsukaichi Chamber from Hiroshima, Japan.