Senate President Pro Tempore Lonnie Paxton and Senator Roland Pederson joined Taiwanese officials in Taipei for the opening of a trade office intended to help Oklahoma businesses reach new markets and attract investment to the state.
The Taiwan Regional Trade Office was established through Senate Bill 209, authored by Pederson and Representative Daniel Pae. The measure became law in August 2025 after more than a decade of work to establish a direct trade presence in Taiwan.
“Oklahoma and Taiwan have shared a strong partnership for more than four decades, and opening this office is an important milestone in that relationship,” Paxton said. “I commend Senator Pederson for his years of work to make this a reality and appreciate the Taiwanese officials who helped us bring this effort across the finish line.”
The office will help Oklahoma companies navigate the Taiwanese market, develop business partnerships and connect international companies with investment opportunities in Oklahoma. Its focus will include energy, aerospace, agriculture, technology and advanced manufacturing.
Pederson said the office will help Oklahoma compete internationally.
“Oklahoma must remain competitive in a global economy, and that means building strong relationships beyond our borders,” Pederson said. “This office will help connect Oklahoma companies with new markets, attract investments to our state and create more opportunities for Oklahomans.”
The office is also expected to help small and midsize businesses explore international markets without the cost of establishing their own overseas operations.
Cathy Ho will serve as its first international trade and investment representative.
Oklahoma’s relationship with Taiwan dates to 1980, when then-Governor George Nigh signed an agreement establishing a sister-state partnership.
