SAIPAN — At a time when the CNMI seems to have its proverbial back against the ropes, the Commonwealth Economic Development Authority traveled to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines last month as part of the SelectUSA ASEAN Roadshow, promoting the CNMI as a U.S. investment destination and returning with a group of Philippine investors already planning a trade mission to the Commonwealth.
The CNMI delegation, which included CEDA Board Member Ramon Dela Cruz, Executive Director Derek Sasamoto and Economic Development Manager Richard Villagomez, met with major regional companies spanning technology, logistics, renewable energy, tourism, financial services, food processing and advanced manufacturing. Several expressed interest in expanding into U.S. jurisdictions, with CEDA positioning the CNMI as a gateway into the American market.
The delegation also engaged with local chambers of commerce in each country, gathering insights into investor expectations and emerging opportunities across the region.
One of the more striking takeaways from the roadshow was how limited awareness of the CNMI remains even among neighboring Asian nations, reinforcing the importance of continued outreach to raise the Commonwealth’s global profile.
Since returning, CEDA has remained in active contact with every investor and business group it met during the trip, working to sustain momentum and develop potential partnerships.
Sasamoto said direct engagement was key. “Meeting face-to-face with major regional and global companies allowed us to clearly communicate the Marianas’s strengths and investment potential. The interest we received reinforces that the CNMI has a compelling value proposition as a U.S. jurisdiction in the Asia-Pacific.”
Dela Cruz said the trip reflects the administration’s economic priorities. “Our participation demonstrates that the CNMI is open for business and fully committed to the Governor and Lieutenant Governor’s efforts to drive economic reform and growth. Meeting with some of the largest companies in the region positions the CNMI to attract new industries and investment.”
Villagomez said the conversations will directly inform the CNMI’s development strategy. “These direct conversations help us understand what global investors are looking for and how the CNMI can position itself competitively. The insights we gathered will directly support the CNMI’s push for diversification and sustainable development.”
CEDA Board Chairman Frank Rabauliman said the agency’s participation directly supports the administration’s goals to diversify the economy, reduce reliance on traditional sectors, attract new industries, promote the CNMI’s advantages as a U.S. jurisdiction and advance long-term economic reform through strategic partnerships.
