Japan-EU trade deal 'a counter to protectionism'

14/01/2019 12:00 - 363 Views

Japan's trade minister says a major deal with the European Union that takes effect in February will serve as a counter to protectionism.

Hiroshige Seko met with the EU's Trade Commissioner ,Cecilia Malmstrom, in Washington on Wednesday to discuss the Economic Partnership Agreement between Japan and the European bloc.

Malmstrom described the deal as "important for Europe. It's an important moment when others are questioning the benefits of free, fair, sustainable, mutually beneficial trade."

Seko said, "While the trend of protectionism is growing, the deal between the EU and Japan is going to take effect without much confusion. That will send a strong message to the world."

Seko also met US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, but the two reportedly did not discuss bilateral trade issues. The three trade chiefs later agreed to work more closely to reform the World Trade Organization and create rules on electronic commerce.
January 14, 2019
Source: Japan Times
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