The California Chamber of Commerce offers its deepest sympathy and condolences for the victims of the disastrous earthquake and tsunami that struck the northeast coast of Japan on March 11.

California has strong historical and commercial ties with Japan, and knows the Japanese people are confronting this disaster with determination and strength. Our thoughts are with Japan during this difficult time.

The California Chamber of Commerce has donated to the Red Cross and urges our members to donate to the relief organization of their choice.

RED CROSS RELIEF FOR JAPAN

The United States is a large supplier of machinery, medical equipment, electric machinery, and commercial aircrafts to Japan. It is also a large foreign market for agricultural products, with a total value of  $902 million.

Tourism from Japan to the United States, particularly California,  is a major industry as well, with revenue reaching $501 million in 2010, according to the California Travel and Tourism Commission.