AAAB at a Crossroads
The AAAB is at a crossroads—let’s build the future together! The Arkansas-Asia business community is growing, and so are the demands on the AAAB. To keep up, we must transition from an all-volunteer model to hiring our first executive director. We need to raise $25,000 by Friday, April, 18, 2025, to make this happen. Without your support, our growth will be limited. Join us as a member or sponsor and be a driving force for change! You can learn more about our plans in the below 2025/2026 roadmap.
Connecting Arkansas and Asia in Business
Arkansas has a long and successful of history working with Asia in the areas of trade relations and foreign direct investments, as well as attracting professionals and entrepreneurs from Asia to the state. Did you know:
- According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, 85% of Asians in Arkansas have at least a high school diploma; 46% of them have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher. (Source: US Census)
- Asians living in Arkansas had the highest median household income of all Arkansans by race of $90,288 per year: (Source: Neilsberg.com)
- Arkansas continues to be an attractive location for Asian companies to do business, contributing to job creation. (Source: Arkansas Foreign-Owned Business Report)
- Five of 10 Arkansas’s export locations are in Asia; specifically, Japan, China, Indonesia, South Korea and Vietnam (Source: 2023 and 2022)
- Prominent Asian companies, including Panasonic, Mitsubishi, Welspun, and TY Garments USA, operate facilities in Arkansas.
- Lithium Supply Agreement: Exxon Mobil signed a non-binding agreement with South Korea’s LG Chem to supply lithium extracted from Arkansas’ Smackover Formation, indicating collaboration in advanced energy sectors. (Source: Reuters)
- Rice Trade with Japan: In 2023, Japan imported $414 million worth of rice from the U.S., with Arkansas poised to increase its contribution due to rising demand. (Source: Axios NW Arkansas)
- Many professionals relocating to Arkansas for job opportunities, particularly those joining the Fortune 500 firms as well as technology and manufacturing companies, bring a global mindset. An organization like the AAAB that champions multicultural communities and fosters a diverse professional network, is essential for attracting and retaining this talent, making Arkansas a welcoming place to call home.
The AAAB at a Glance
Mission
Founded in June 2017, the AAAB developed a clear purpose and mission from the very beginning.
Community
The AAAB grows not only as an organization, it also expands as a community, consisting of members, volunteers, and enthusiasts.
Activities
The AAAB hosts events throughout the year, such as networking sessions and workshops. We are also big on collaborating with others.
Corporate Sponsors
