Michael Sutton

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On Feb. 10, Japan and Mongolia signed an Economic Partnership Agreement that will come into effect this spring. Trade between the two countries is small — accounting for less than 1 percent of Japanese trade. The agreement is, however, of strategic importance as Japan seeks to negotiate closer economic ties with countries in the region. Mongolian mineral resources such as its coal deposits are increasingly important for Japan as it contemplates the appropriate energy mix at a time when it is considering how to reduce its dependence on nuclear power.

Japan, Mongolia, China and Russia exist alongside the United States within the World Trade Organization (WTO) system as equal members.…  Seguir leyendo »

In recent months, Japan has been debating the merits of joining trade negotiations that may lead to the realization of the so-called Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).

The TPP is promoted as a free trade pact currently being negotiated among the United States, Mexico, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Brunei, Chile, Singapore, Malaysia, Peru and Vietnam. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s Liberal Democratic Party is divided, but Abe seems in favor of joining the negotiations.

If the TPP is concluded, one outcome is likely to be the end of government protection for the agricultural sector.

Supporters claim that the TPP will result in free trade, regional prosperity and a rejuvenated Japan.…  Seguir leyendo »