WT/TPR/M/438  
11 May 2023 
(23-3289) Page: 1/80 
Trade Policy Review Body  
1 and 3 March 2023   
 
  
TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
JAPAN 
MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Dr Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme (Botswana)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JAPAN  ................................ .........  4 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  7 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  12 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JAPAN  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ............  70 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  79 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Japan  are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 438/Add.1  and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 2 - 
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The 15th Trade Policy Review of Japan was held on 1 and 3  March  2023. Due to the absence of 
the TPRB Chairperson, H.E.  Mr Ángel Villalobos Rodríguez (Mexico), the Chair of the DSB, 
H.E. Dr Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme (Botswana), chaired the meeting in accordance with the Rules 
of Procedures of the TPRB. She welcomed the delegation of  Japan, headed by Mr Akihiro  Okochi, 
Deputy Assistant Minister, Economic Affairs Bureau, Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy 
of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs ; H.E. Mr Kazuyuki Yamazaki , Permanent Representative of Japan 
to the WTO;  the rest of the delegation; and the discussant, H.E. Mr João Aguiar Machado 
(European  Union ). 
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefited 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wider partic ipation of the Membership.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The Report by Japan  is contained in document WT/TPR/G/ 438, and that of the 
WTO Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/ 438. 
1.4.  Questions by t he following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Singapore ; China ; the Philippines ; Thailand ; Israel; the United  Kingdom; Australia; Chile; Iceland; 
Switzerland; Argentina; Chinese  Taipei; the European  Union; the United  States; Costa  Rica; 
the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia; Brazil; Türkiye; Norway; the Dominican  Republic; Colombia; Canada; 
Ukraine; New  Zealand; Hong  Kong,  China; Brunei  Darussalam; India; and the Russian  Federation . 
The following delegations submitted written questions after  the deadline: the Republic of Korea, 
Kazakhstan, the Republic of Moldova, Malaysia, Ecuador, and Indonesia.  
1.5.  The Chairperson first recalled some elements of Japan's previous Review and developments 
since then, as well as identified some key issues arising from the advance written questions 
submitted by Members for the current TPR.  
1.6.  During the  previous TPRB meeting held on 6 and 8  July 2020, Members had commended Japan 
on its key role in the global trading system, its integration in the world economy and global value 
chains, the results of its macroeconomic policy, its policies to promote women's economic 
empowerment and its response to the COVID -19 pandemic. For the current Review, Members 
through their advance written questions sought information on issu es relating to fiscal sustainability, 
the impact of the Yen's recent depreciation, measures to address Japan's declining workforce and 
ageing population, and plans to further increase the role of women in the economy.  
1.7.  At the time of the previous Review, Me mbers had praised Japan for its long -standing  support 
and active participation in the multilateral trading system . They referred to the Joint Statement 
Initiatives on E-Commerce and on Investment Facilitation for Development, the Joint Declaration on 
Women  and Economic Empowerment, and the Statement on MSMEs, as well as its contribution to 
advance WTO  reform and engagement in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies and services 
domestic regulation. They also highlighted Japan's strong track record with WTO notification 
obligations in almost all areas. At the same time, Members also referred to Japan's increased focus 
on RTA initiatives. For the current Review, several Members requested more details on: the role of 
the Indo -Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) a nd the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for 
Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), GSP utilization and eligibility, a bilateral agreement with 
the United  States, and Japan's plans for future RTAs.  
1.8.  With regard to trade policy, at the time of the previous  Review, Members, while commending 
the high degree of predictability in Japan's tariff regime, encouraged a reduction of the complexity 
and peaks of its customs tariff. While Japan was commended for its trade facilitation efforts, it was 
encouraged to impr ove efficiency in the handling of goods at the border and ensure that technical 
regulations do not impede trade. For th e current  Review, in the advance written questions, some 
Members expressed interest in learning more inter alia about: plans to simplify the tariff; the 
provision of missing ad valorem  equivalents; regulations for customs brokers; export control 
regulations; export restrictions related to semi -conductors; export support measures; SPS measures 
deviating from international standards; governme nt procurement procedures; and numerous 
intellectual property right matters.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 3 - 
 
1.9.  In terms of sectoral trade policies, Members were interested in having more clarity on: domestic 
support for agriculture in general; conditions and criteria for direct payments; m ethods of tariff 
quota allocation and fill rates; agricultural self -sufficiency targets; plans and incentives to promote 
renewable energies and decarbonize the economy; support for "critical products and materials", 
specifically for producers of chips and semi-conductors; foreign participation in financial services; 
the role of the Digital Agency; and rules for data storage and transfer.  
1.10.  In total, Japan received 787  advance written questions from 34  delegations for this Review, 
out of which 700  were sent within the established deadline, covering a broad range of topics. Prior 
to th e meeting, Japan already provided written replies to the questions submitted within the 
established deadline.  
1.11.  The meeting w as a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of interest 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilateral trading system. It was also an opportune 
moment for Japan to update the Membership on the impact of COVID -19 on its economy. The 
Chairperson looked  forward to a fru itful exchange.  
1.12.  The Chairperson closed her introductory remarks by wishing Japan a very successful 
15th Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 4 - 
 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JAPAN ( H.E. MR AKIHIRO  OKOCHI)  
2.1.  First, Japan would like to express our heartfelt condol ences to those who lost their beloved 
family members and friends in the devastating earthquake in Türkiye and Syria, as well as in the 
cyclone disaster in New  Zealand.  
2.2.  Today, I am very pleased to be here representing Japan, I would like to express our sinc ere 
appreciation to the Chair, Ambassador Athaliah Lesiba M olokomme  of Botswana. Japan also extends 
its warmest thanks to Ambassador João Aguiar Machado of the E uropean  Union, whom we are 
honoured  to have as a discussant. We would also like to acknowledge the WTO  Secretariat, especially 
Mr Willy Alfaro, Director of the TPR Division and his team's dedicated work over the past months. 
We also extend our thanks to all the ambassadors and delegates who are participating in today's 
meeting.  
2.3.  For this  review, we received more than 600  questions from over 30  Members. We are pleased 
to have been able to answer almost all of them, including those submitted after the deadline.  
2.4.  The Trade Policy Review Mechanism worked very effectively in ensuring transparen cy of trade 
policies and practices of WTO Members and contributed to maintaining and strengthening the 
multilateral trading system. Japan has passionately  supported the activities of the TPRM. On this 
occasion, we would like to reiterate the importance of transparency in strengthening the WTO 
functions, and very much welcome the Seven th Appraisal Exercise initiated after MC12.  
2.5.  Japan has achieved economic growth as a trading nation and has been consistently committed 
to free and fair trade, and to the multil ateral trading system. Japan's attitude has remained 
unwavering  even in the midst of the current situation where protectionist trends after the COVID -19 
pandemic and global economic uncertainty have become apparent. I would like to introduce some 
of our co untry's key initiatives during the review period.  
2.6.  Since the previous review, the global environment has undergone dramatic changes, including 
the COVID -19 pandemic, the Russia n Federation 's aggression against  Ukraine, worsening climate 
change, and natural disasters. In Japan, the potential growth rate remains sluggish against the 
backdrop of a declining birth-rate, ageing population, and low productivity growth rate.  
2.7.  The COVID -19 pandemic revealed that a supp ly chain that is excessively dependent on a 
specific country or region cannot secure the healthcare needed for citizens and cannot ensure stable 
production for companies.  
2.8.  The Russia n Federation 's aggression against  Ukraine is creating unthinkable death and  
destruction to the Ukrainian people. The brutal actions against Ukraine are a clear violation of the 
fundamental principles of international law, which is the basis of the WTO, and pose a serious threat 
to world peace and security.  
2.9.  Facing these difficulti es, Prime  Minister Kishida formulated the "Grand Design and Action Plan 
for a New Form of Capitalism" in June  2022. The New Capitalism has four priority areas: 
(i) investment in people and distribution ; (ii) investment in science technology and innovation ; 
(iii) investment in start-ups; and ( iv) investment in green transformation  (GX) and digital 
transformation  (DX).  
2.10.  The first three areas, human capital accumulation, including the facilitation of labour  mobility 
by improving skills; advanced technology development; and start -up incubation are critically 
important in Japan where we are facing future labour  shortages. In addition, digital transformation 
and green transformation are key areas to facilitate the transition to a post -COVID -19 society, as 
well as a new source of value -added.  
2.11.  In addition, many Members asked in their written questions about Japan's recent measures 
for intellectual property (IP). Japan is very conscious that creating, protecting, and utilizing 
intellectual property is vital for economic growth. During the review period, Japan revised the Basic 
Act on Science and Technology, and set a new target of achieving about JPY  30 trillion (about 
USD 220 billion) of R&D investment by the Government and JPY  120 trillion (about USD  880 billion) 
of R&D investment by the public and private  sectors combined over the next decade.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 5 - 
 
2.12.  In these increasingly difficult times, the scope of national security is rapidly expanding to the 
areas of economy and technology, and Japan will address national and economic security, as well as 
prioritize sustainable and inclusive growth. The Economic S ecurity Promotion Act enacted in 
May 2022 provides a framework for ( i) ensuring the stable supply of critical goods ; (ii) ensuring the 
stable provision of key infrastructure services ; (iii) supporting the development of cutting -edge 
critical technologies ; and ( iv) keeping patent applications undisclosed. These measures are clearly 
consistent with the WTO  Agreement . 
2.13.  The multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core is the cornerstone of global trade 
and continues to be a pillar of Japan's trade policy . Japan has proactively participated in each of the 
WTO's three functions.   
2.14.  Regarding the negotiation function, Japan, as co -convener of the e -commerce negotiations in 
the WTO, is leading the formation of high -level rules, including the liberalization of data flow, "Data 
Free Flow with Trust (DFFT)". The DFFT, advocated by former Prime  Minister Abe at the 2019 
Davos  Forum, was shared as a foundational concept for data utilization and the launch of the "Osaka 
Track" was declared at the G20 Osaka  Summit. As the importance of digitalization of the economy 
is widely recognized and further strengthened due to the impact of the COVID -19 pandemic, we will 
further accelerate negotiations in order to expand the circle of cooperation among the volunteer 
countries and to bring about concrete results.  
2.15.  We have been constructively engaged in negotiations on agriculture, including negotiations 
with reference to non -trade-related concerns. In particular, given the current situati on, food security 
is one of the issues that we need to tackle in an urgent manner. Also, as one of the biggest net 
food-importing countries in the world which relies on imports for more than 60% of our food needs, 
food security is at the forefront of citiz ens' concerns throughout Japan. From this viewpoint, we are 
prepared to participate in the discussions, including the technical ones, to find pragmatic outcomes.  
2.16.  We have also been actively engaged in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies. Currently, we 
are in the domestic process of concluding the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies adopted at MC12, 
and we recently contributed approximately CHF  760,000 to the newly established fund based on this 
agreement, as the first Member to do so.  
2.17.  On dispute settlement,  Japan continues to set out to achieve, as the utmost priority, a DS 
reform that will contribute to a long -lasting solution to the structural and functional problems of the 
Dispute Settlement System in the WTO. In this regard, we  will participate actively in the informal 
discussions currently led by Members, so that the Members will be able to achieve DS reform by  2024 
as agreed at MC12 . 
2.18.  Next, we will introduce our efforts regarding regional trade and investment agreements.  As 
part of efforts to build a free and fair economic order based on rules, Japan is promoting economic 
partnership agreements such as the CPTPP. The CPTPP is of significant importance in that it spreads 
high-standard, balanced rules for a new era of trade around the world and will play a very important 
role in the future economic order of the Indo -Pacific region and beyond. Since the last Review, the 
UK-Japan EPA and RCEP agreements have entered into force, and the EPA/FTA ratio of Japan's trade 
now account s for about 80% of total trade.  
2.19.  Against this backdrop, Japan's tariffs are among the lowest in the world. Japan's simple 
average tariff rate for all items is 4.6%, and the simple average effective tariff rate is 6.3% on an 
applied basis. In FY2022, about 4 0% of all items, excluding those under preferential tariff systems, 
were duty -free. In addition, in June  2020, Japan formulated an action plan to promote the 
digitization of customs procedures and the automation of customs inspections by actively 
incorpora ting AI and other advanced technologies, and all possible measures are being taken to 
improve the environment for the expansion of cross -border logistics by further developing economic 
partnership agreements and other measures.  
2.20.  Regarding investment -related  agreements, 55  investment -related agreements have been 
signed or entered into force. Including those currently under negotiation, 94  countries and regions 
and about 93% of Japan's total outward direct investment will be covered. In June  2021, Japan 
decide d on the "Strategy for Promoting Foreign Direct Investment in Japan" and aims to increase 
inward direct investment stocks to JPY  80 trillion  and reach  12% of GDP, by 2030. Attracting highly WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 6 - 
 
skilled human resources, technology, and abundant funds from overs eas will contribute to 
strengthening the growth potential of the Japanese economy as a whole and to revitalizing local 
economies.  
2.21.  Next, I would like to discuss development and economic cooperation.  Japan strongly 
recognizes the importance of Aid for Trade (AfT), which supports developing countries' own efforts 
in various aspects, especially for the capacity building that is necessary for trade expansion in 
developing countries, and for improving infrastructure to boost trade. Japan has been one of the top 
donors to the AfT. To promote international trade, Japan has provided assistance through the WTO 
and the International Trade Cent re (ITC), including AfT assistance totalling  approximately 
USD 10 billion in 2020.  
2.22.  Japan is also taking the lead in development in Africa. At the 8th Tokyo International 
Conference on African Development (TICAD8) held in Tunisia in August last year, Japan, as a 
"partner grow ing together with Africa", pro moted  initiatives focusing on  "investment in people" and 
"the quality of growth" in order to realize the resilient Africa that Africa itself  aims to achieve . In 
terms of concrete measures, the " Japan's  Green Growth Initiative  with Africa (GGA) " is launched , 
where  USD 4 billion  public and p rivate financial contribution in total is made. Japan welcomes a plan 
by the Japanese business community to create and investment fund for start -ups of more than 
JPY 10 billion.  
2.23.  In addition, Japan attaches great importance to the implementation of the WTO Trade 
Facilitation Agreement in developing countries and strongly supports the international harmonization 
and simplification of customs procedures in cooperation with the WCO and other relevant 
organizations. Most recently, for example, Japan has supporte d Laos in improving its customs 
clearance system through risk management, and Cambodia in introducing an Authorized Economic 
Operator (AEO) system. The WCO also supports human resource development in the field of customs 
in Pacific Island  countries and Afr ica in cooperation with JICA. Furthermore, Japan contributes funds 
to the Customs Co -operation Fund (CCF) established in the WCO on a voluntary basis each year, 
and provides technical cooperation through the WCO to a wide range of regions.  
2.24.  Japan provides p referential tariffs under the GSP scheme to 131  developing countries, and 
has extended the term of validity of these tariffs to 2031. With regard to imports from least 
developed countries (LDCs), the percentage of LDC products eligible for duty -free and qu ota-free 
treatment has been expanded to about 98% of the products, exceeding the agreed level in the 
Hong Kong Ministerial Declaration.  
2.25.  With regard to accession to the WTO, Japan also places importance on the integration of 
developing countries into the multilateral trading system and has been actively involved in the 
accession process of LDCs such as Timor -Leste, as well as supporting Sudan's new accession as 
Chair of the Working Party on Accession since 2016.  
2.26.  Twelve years have passed since the Great Eas t Japan Earthquake struck Japan on 
11 March  2011. Many countries and regions have either lifted restrictions on imports of Japanese 
food products introduced by some Members after the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant 
accident. We would like to express our gratitude to those Members for responding with objective 
assessment based on scientific evidence. Japan sincerely hopes that the remaining import 
restrictions will be lifted as soon as possible.  
2.27.  Finally, w hen the WTO was launched in 1995, the future of  the WTO was bright and more was 
expected of the Organization, but now, 28  years after its launch, the breakdowns that were 
unforeseeable at the time are becoming apparent, and the repair work is urgently needed. While 
some of the repairs may be patchwork,  others may require extensive remodelling . 
2.28.  Japan  reaffirms its commitment to cooperating with all WTO Members in the reform of 
the WTO. In this regard, Japan commits to working to ensure transparency and a level playing field 
to foster an enabling business  environment, and to support the integrity and sustainability of a 
rules-based multilateral trading system.  
  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 7 - 
 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  First, I would like to thank  the delegation of Japan for the opportunity to act as a discussant 
for this 15th Trade Policy Review of Japan.  
3.2.  I would like to welcome the Japanese delegation, headed by Mr Akihiro  Okochi (Deputy 
Assistant Minister and Ambassador in charge of Economic Di plomacy at the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs)  and my good colleague, Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki, and his team here in Geneva.  
3.3.  I would also like to thank both Japan and the Secretariat for their Reports, which enable 
Members to form a deeper understanding of Japan's trade and economic policies and are the basis 
for our exchanges today. I would like to recall that my remarks today are made in a personal 
capacity.  
3.4.  Japan occupies a very special place in my life and in my heart. Its people, society, traditions , 
culture, sense of aesthetics impressed me forever.  
3.5.  When I was posted in Tokyo (1989 -1994), Japan was exiting a decade (the  80s) of strong 
economic growth, incredible wealth generation and technological advancement and a formidable 
competitor. Japan ran huge trade surpluses with the U nited States, the E uropean  Union (and many 
others) and competing in the Japanese market was a serious challenge for European and other 
trading partners. Relations were tense. These were the times of "Structural Impediments In itiatives", 
"Framework Talks", "numerical targets" and many other trade and economic measures aimed at 
rebalancing trade relations with Japan.  
3.6.  Now, f ast forward 33  years, Japan has undergone significant changes. Not only Japan went 
through several decades of sluggish economic growth, indeed a deflationary economy, but it 
managed to develop harmonious trade relations with the rest of the world to become an equal 
partn er. In my humble opinion, Japan is testimony that a major country with a powerful and 
competitive economy, with a very different history, culture, traditions, and ways of organi zing its 
society, can develop harmonious relations with its partners and integr ate into the world trading 
system based on a solid commitment to market principles and shared values.  
3.7.  Now, coming back to this review , I will, in my role as a discussant, organi ze my remarks and 
observations around three broad headings.   
3.8.  Firstly , I will t ake a look at how Japan has performed since the last TPR in 2020. Secondly, 
I will try to identify the main changes in Japan's trade and investment policies since then. Finally,  
as one of the key interests  of this transparency exercise is the feedback of M embers, I will try to 
highlight the main issues and areas of interest in this review, based on the Members' advance 
questions.  
Japan's performance since the last Trade Policy Review  
3.9.  First, the  overall economic context. Similarly to the last Review in July  2020, this review too 
comes at an exceptionally difficult and challenging time for the global economy, for international 
cooperation and the multilateral trading system as well as to Japan itself.  
3.10.  Since the previous Review, wide -ranging changes have taken  place in the environment 
surrounding Japan, driven by the COVID -19 pandemic and its impact on global supply chains and 
economic growth, the Russian  Federation's aggression against Ukraine, and the challenges posed by 
climate change.  
3.11.  At home, Japan has continued to face a declining and ageing population, stagnant economic 
growth, and experienced first -hand the impact of climate change in the form of f requent and 
intensified natural disasters.  
3.12.  From January  2020 to October  2022, Japan's macro -economic policies continued to be guided 
by a three -pronged strategy, namely bold monetary policy based on quantitative and qualitative 
easing, a flexible fiscal p olicy, and structural reforms. This economic strategy, which has been in 
place since 2013 and has come to be named "Abenomics" in reference to the late P rime Minister  Abe, WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 8 - 
 
was intended to revitalize business investment and private consumption and, in this way, overcome 
the prolonged deflation in the Japanese economy. However, looking at the continued sluggish 
performance of the economy over the years, one wonders whether this strategy has really delivered. 
I would be interested to hear the views of the Japa nese delegation as to whether this strategy has 
delivered the expected results.  
3.13.  Economic growth rates during the review period were very moderate, unsurprisingly marked 
by the direct impact of the COVID -19 pandemic, subsequent supply -chain disruptions, an d the 
resulting global economic slowdown.  
3.14.  However, with the impact of COVID -19 waning, social and economic activities are picking -up 
and the recent improvements in employment and income levels seem to indicate that Japan's 
economy is returning to the pre -pandemic state.  
3.15.  As already highlighted in the previous Review and again this time, Japan continues to have 
the highest ratio of public debt to GDP among developed countries, at some 263% of GDP. In most 
other countries this would be a serious source of co ncern. I understand that in Japan's case most 
public debt is in domestic hands but in the current environment of increasing interest rates, the 
question arises about the fiscal sustainability in the medium term. I will be interested to hear the 
views of th e Japanese delegation in this regard.  
The main changes and developments in Japan's economic, trade and investment policies  
3.16.  Here, it is not my intention to be comprehensive with regard to the many policy initiatives 
that the Japanese Government launched in  the last two and a half years. Instead, I'll be highlighting 
some policy initiatives and changes that are the most notable during the period under review and 
reflect attempts to address current challenges.  
3.17.  The first, is the greater emphasis placed by the Government of Japan on national and 
economic security issues.  This is not unique to Japan as many other Members are contemplating 
similar policies to address similar concerns. Japan has been building its economic security policy as 
a means to address emerging geopolitical and geo -economic challenges, its own declining 
competitiveness in advanced and new technologies, vulnerabilities in supply chains as exposed by 
the C OVID -19 pandemic and intensifying threats such as cyber -attacks on its key in frastructure. 
The Russia n Federation 's invasion of Ukraine invigorated Japan's economic security debate and 
policy.  
3.18.  In May  2022, Japan enacted the Economic Security Promotion Act (ESPA), which is an 
important "umbrella" legislation that sets up a single po licy framework, and enacts a series of new 
measures. Also in 2022, Japan adopted a new National Security Strategy (NSS) in which the 
Government takes a more holistic and expansive view of national security, incorporating "economic 
security" as a national s ecurity concept.  
3.19.  These policies are now being implemented. The key challenge here is how to balance the 
strengthening of economic security with preserving competition in the market, ensuring fair 
treatment and a level playing field and respecting internat ional commitments. It would be interesting 
to hear the views of the Japanese Government in this regard.  
3.20.  A second theme, indeed  an important challenge, relates to demographics.  Japan's ageing 
population coupled with a declining birth -rate poses an enormous challenge for the management of 
the labour market and for the continued prosperity of the country. The Government has undertaken 
various reforms to increase labour supply, increase productivity and wages over the recent years. 
These labour market reforms s eem to have been successful in raising employment. The Government 
has also announced new measures to tackle what it calls "the alarming decline" in Japan's birth -rate. 
These measures, however, seem to target more parents who already have children (child su pport 
payments, childcare services) rather than addressing the underlying issue which is why young people 
are increasingly reluctant to marry and start families. Failing to address that, another option, used 
by many countries, is to allow for more migrant workers. I would be interested to hear the views of 
the Japanese Government in this respect.  
3.21.  A third theme relates to climate change and environmental sustainability  which are 
increasingly intrinsically linked to global trade and economy and Japan is no e xception. In 2020, WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 9 - 
 
Japan set a goal of slashing greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050. And in 2021 it announced 
its new target to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 46% in 2030 from its 2013 levels.  
3.22.  Japan has adopted a number of strategies to this end, including an Environment Innovation 
Strategy and a Green Growth Strategy both in 2020. These are aimed to promote green innovations 
and finance among other objectives with a view to support the transition to a net zero economy. 
Japan also adopted in 2 021 a new Strategic Energy Plan (SEP) that sets the direction for energy 
policy for the coming years towards the realization of these objectives and targets. It would be 
interesting to know if the implementation of these strategic policies ha s already led to progress in 
cutting emissions in Japan.  
3.23.  A fourth topic relates specifically to Japan's economic and trade policies. Integration into the 
world economy through the participation in the multilateral trading system as well  as via regional 
and bilateral tra de and investment agreements, remains a critically important part of Japan's overall 
economic strategy.  
3.24.  The WTO system remains a central pillar of Japan's trade and investment policy. Japan has 
shown its strong commitment to the WTO over the years through its engagement and determination 
in bringing about progress and reform in this Organization.  
3.25.  Japan made an important contribution to the outcome of MC12 and is actively engaged in the 
WTO reform discussions. Japan's supports the conduct of negotiations in a flexible manner among 
like-minded Members as a way to develop rules in a changing environme nt. It participates in the 
ITA, ITA2 , and also in a number of Joint Statement Initiatives. Japan also contributes significantly 
to the technical assistance programmes of the WTO. Very recently, Japan became the first WTO 
Member making a donation to the new  Fisheries Trust Fund, thus contributing to making the Fund 
operational.  
3.26.  But over the years, Japan has also been active in developing a bilateral and regional trade 
agenda as a complement to the multilateral trading system. Japan has 21  FTAs signed and in  force 
the most recent ones being the Japan -UK Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and the 
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) and has 3  FTAs under 
negotiation. Long gone are the days when Japan characterized itself as bei ng a "Friend of Article  I" 
of the GATT , Japan now has become a "Friend of Art icle XXIV", and I do hope a really "True Friend 
of Art icle XXIV" . In this regard, I would be interested to learn about the Japanese Government's 
plans to notify the agreement reac hed with the U nited States in 2019 to the CRTA and indeed to 
complete that agreement since it has only partial trade coverage.  
3.27.  Looking at the more recent past, and as we have passed the unfortunate one –year anniversary 
of the start of the war in Ukraine l ast Friday, it is worth recalling that Japan suspended MFN treatment 
to the Russian  Federation in April  2022, announced the prohibition of new Japanese investment in 
the Russian  Federation - in line with measures taken by other G7 nations - and imposed an import 
ban on certain goods and applied export measures against the Russian  Federation and Belarus.  
Main areas of interest in this T rade Policy Review   
3.28.  As Japan is one of the world's largest economies and an important trading and investment 
partner for most WTO Members, it is not surprising that Japan received a large number of questions 
for this review, around 7 80 questions from 30  WTO Members.  
3.29.  I already  touched upon the measures to counteract Japan's demographic challenge, which 
have created interest from many WTO Members. In addition, Japan's policies and plans to promote 
greater women's participation in the economy have also raised interest. While the gender wage gap 
in Japan has been narrowing over the years, it still remains large compared to other advanced  
economies. Japan could offer some insights on the most recent measures, and also indicate whether 
and when it intends to ratify the ILO Convention  No. 111 on Discrimination in Respect of Employment 
and Occupation.  
3.30.  With national security in economic and trade policies gathering more relevance, Members  are 
showing considerable interest in Japan's Economic Security Promotion Act. Questions have been 
asked about the process and criteria by which Japan determines what is a "key product", "essential WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 10 - 
 
infrastructure service", and "advanced critical technology" and which types of enterprises are eligible 
for the subsidies.  
3.31.  In the WTO context, Japan has stated its commitment to finding a long -lasting solution to the 
WTO Dispute Settlement System , including matters concerning the Appellate Body. While the work 
on restoring a fully functioning Dispute Settlement System continues, some Members have asked 
whether Japan is considering joining the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration (MPIA) arrangement 
that provides a temporary framework for resolving trade disputes in the WTO.  
3.32.  Japan's bilateral and regional economic partnership agreements is another area of interest to 
Members. The Reports make only brief references, for example, to the trade agreement  between 
the United  States and Japan which I referred to earlier. Members are interested to learn more about 
this agreement as well as the plans ahead for Japan's regional and bilateral trade agenda.  
3.33.  While it is acknowledged and appreciated that Japan's FDI framework  continu es to be liberal, 
with only few sectoral restrictions, a screening requirement for foreign investment remains in place 
with the screening threshold lowered from 10% in company shares to 1% in 2020. A number of 
Members have raised questions about Japan's sc reening requirements for FDI, measures to attract 
FDI and FDI restrictions in some (services) sectors.  
3.34.  In trade and environmental issues,  the areas of interest include whether Japan has any plan 
to establish its own Emission Trading System (ETS) and Carbo n Border Adjustment Mechanism.  
3.35.  However, some issues seem to carry over from the last TPR in 2020. For example, there is a 
continuing interest and concern in Japan's sanitary and phytosanitary  (SPS) measures.  
3.36.  In the same vein, Japan's agricultural sector  remains an area of interest. The enforcement 
and implications of the new agricultural self -sufficiency and food security targets by 2030 give rise 
to a number of questions from Members.  
3.37.  Japan being also an important fishing  nation, Members are seeking an update from Japan on 
its progress towards depositing its instrument of acceptance of the WTO  Agreement  on Fisheries 
Subsidies – phase one. There is also interest to learn more about the steps taken against IUU fishing 
that Japan has stated it will discoura ge. Similarly to the agriculture sector, there is increased interest 
about the impact of a set of self -sufficiency targets by 2032 on the import and export of seafood 
products into  and out of Japan.  
3.38.  Members have also been keen in learning more about the e ffectiveness of Japan's IPR 
protection framework and enforcement measures as well participation of foreign companies in the 
public procurement market.   
3.39.  The areas highlighted above were just some of the many areas in which WTO Members have 
manifested a clea r interest during this transparency exercise. I am confident that Japan, in the 
replies that it has already provided and further clarifications during this meeting, will be able to 
address these and other issues relating to its trade policies and practices .  
Concluding Remarks  
3.40.  According to the Secretariat Report and projections by the IMF, the recovery of Japan's 
economy is expected to continue in 2022 and 2023. With very limited room for fiscal and monetary 
policies to support sustainable growth, structura l policies become ever more important for Japan. 
Trade policy needs to be re -considered in this context. In this regard, caution is needed against the 
temptation of using trade restrictive measures to cushion structural reforms.  
3.41.  Uncertainty around the pandemic and the war in Ukraine pose significant downside risks to 
the Japanese economy.  
3.42.  However, I remain optimistic that with its policies geared at innovation, digitalization, 
environmental sustainability, as well as improved productivity and human -capital investment, and 
preserving openness in international trade, Japan will be ab le to tackle these challenges successfully.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 11 - 
 
3.43.  With its strong reliance on global value chains and free and open trade, Japan needs to 
continue to play an active role in reforming the WTO and show a stronger leadership in defending 
the multilateral trading s ystem . 
3.44.  I hope that we will have a constructive and useful exchange over the next few days in order 
to improve our understanding of Japan's policies and practices and their future direction. I wish 
Japan a very successful 15th Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 12 - 
 
4  STATEM ENTS BY MEMBERS  
SINGAPORE  
4.1.  The Singapore delegation warmly welcomes Mr Akihiro  Okochi , Ambassador in charge of 
Economic diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , and the Japanese delegation. We would like 
to express our appreciation to Japan for the comprehensive Government Report and statement. We 
also thank the Chair, Ambassador Atahliah  Molokomme, the discussant, Ambassador João Aguiar 
Machado (EU), and the Se cretariat, for their thoughtful and insightful Reports. Allow me to make 
three points.  
4.2.  First, as the world 's fourth  largest trading nation, Japan continues to play an extremely 
important role in the global economy. For over 50  years, Japan has consistentl y been ranked among 
the top  five countries in terms of global manufacturing output. According to the Secretariat 's Report, 
manufactured products accounted for about 85.6% of Japan 's total merchandise exports in 2021, 
which underlines Japan 's importance as a key node in global trade and a major manufacturing centre. 
Additionally, Japan remains a world leader in innovation and technology, having produced inventions 
ranging from the rice -cooker to the QR code, from selfie sticks to emojis.  
4.3.  In this context, as  G7 Chair this year, Japan has the unique opportunity to leverage multilateral 
cooperation to steer the global agenda to focus on pressing issues such as post -pandemic recovery 
and climate change mitigation. Domestically, we commend Japan 's goal to achieve  net zero 
greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and its proposal on Data Free Flow with Trust, which makes an 
important contribution to shaping the discourse on digital transformation.  
4.4.  Second, Singapore and Japan share long -standing , multi -faceted, and robust  bilateral political 
and economic relations. The 2002 Agreement between Japan and Singapore for a New -Age Economic 
Partnership Agreement (JSEPA) marked Japan 's first -ever free trade agreement, and continues to 
anchor our bilateral economic relationship. Ap art from covering traditional goods and 
services -related issues, the JSEPA  also covers cooperation in key growth areas such as info -comm 
technology ; science and technology ; tourism ; and human resource development. In addition, the 
JSEPA  has a standalone ch apter on small and medium enterprises , which is the first of its kind, and 
reflects the importance that both countries attach to MSMEs. Since its entry into force, bilateral trade 
has increased by over 100% to reach US D 48.9 billion in 2022, and Japan and Singapore were each 
other 's fourth  largest source of foreign direct investment. In the face of rapidly evolving global and 
technological changes, Singapore looks forward to working closely with Japan to conduct a 
substantive review of the JSEPA .  
4.5.  Singapore and Japan are committed to continually identify new areas of cooperation. Just two 
weeks ago, the first Japan -Singapore Economic Dialogue brought together public and private sector 
representatives to exchange views on how to enhance bilateral eco nomic cooperation in emerging 
areas such as start -up ecosystems, enhancing supply chains, and the digital economy. Japan and 
Singapore are also partners in several plurilateral agreements, including the ASEAN -Japan FTA, the 
Comprehensive and Progressive Ag reement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which benefit ed 
from the leadership of the late P rime Minister  Shinzō  Abe, and the Regional Comprehensive 
Economic Partnership (RCEP). These agreements serve as important building blocks to strengthen 
the rule s-based multilateral trading system. As highlighted in Japan 's Government Report, such 
agreements "will enhance the transparency of the respective member country 's economic policy and 
reinforce the competitiveness of its industries, which will bring about positive impacts on the 
multilateral trade negotiations ". 
4.6.  Third, Singapore and Japan are like -minded partners, and strong supporters of the WTO. 
Together with Australia, Japan , and Singapore are co -convenors of the Joint Statement Initiative 
(JSI) on E -Commerce, and we are fully committed to working hand -in-hand to advance the 
negotiations to formulate meaningful global rules to govern E -Commerce. In addition, we commend 
Japan 's long -standing contributions to provide capacity building and technical assistan ce, to support 
developing and LDC Members ' efforts to achieve their development objectives and better integrate 
into the global economy. This is exemplified by Japan leading the way to contribute to the WTO 
Fisheries Funding Mechanism, which provides assis tance to help developing and LDC Members with 
the implementation of the landmark Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. As a staunch "friend of the 
system ", it is timely for Japan to join the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA), WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 13 - 
 
which will  be fully aligned with the goal of the vast majority of WTO Members to restore a fully and 
well-functioning dispute settlement system.  
4.7.  In closing, I would like to acknowledge the active and constructive role that 
Ambassador  Yamazaki has played in the WTO,  as well as the valuable contributions of his capable 
team at the Japanese Mission in Geneva. We wish Japan a very successful 15th Trade Policy Review.  
CHINA  
4.8.  Let me first warmly w elcome Mr  Akihiro  Okochi , Deputy Assistant Minister and Ambassador in 
charge of Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreing Affairs ; Ambassador Mr Kazuyuki  Yamazaki , 
permanent Representative of Japan to the WTO;  and the delegation of Japan to this TPR. I would 
like to thank the G overnment of Japan and the Secretariat of the WTO for their preparation of this 
TPR and the discussant Ambassador Mr João Aguiar Machado  for his insightful comment.  
4.9.  Japan is China's close neighbour. We are deeply connected culturally and economically. As t wo 
major economies in the Asia -Pacific region, we both have made important contributions to the 
growth , prosperity, and stability of the region through bilateral, regional, and multilateral 
cooperation. For the past decades, our bilateral trade and investm ent have been well integrated. 
China has been Japan's largest trading partner since 2007. Japan is China's third largest trading 
partner, second export destination and second source of import in 2022.  
4.10.  China and Japan are both staunch supporters to the mult ilateral trading system and value the 
core principles of the WTO. In this regard, China commends Japan's comprehensive engagement in 
MC12 negotiations, its constructive contribution to JSIs discussions such as e -commerce and 
investment facilitation, and it s sustained development efforts at the WTO. Notably, Japan is the first 
donor to the Fisheries Funding Mechanism, helping developing and least -developed countries to 
implement the Agreement of Fisheries Subsidies.  
4.11.  However, we notice that some trade and tra de-related policies adopted by Japan recently 
seem to run counter to what it safeguards at the WTO. Therefore, at today's meeting, I have to 
express our concerns over some of Japan's trade policies and measures.  
4.12.  First, Japan's restrictive measures on the g round of national security. On trade, Japan 
continues to expand its End -user List subject to export control during this review period. It is 
regrettable to note that another 25  Chinese companies and even scientific research institutions were 
added in the E nd-user List for unfounded reasons. On investment, the Economic Security Promotion 
Act implemented in August  2022 adopts a "preliminary review system" for foreign companies 
investing in specific sectors. Such measures are discriminatory and protective in n ature. China calls 
for Japan to take a prudent attitude when taking measures in the name of national security. Any 
measures to adopt should be evidence -based rather than assumption.  
4.13.  Second, Japan's government intervention to regional and global supply chai n. Since 2020, in 
order to have industries back home or to where the Japanese Government selected, a large number 
of government subsidies have been allocated as incentives. In the meantime, it becomes an active 
player in building "small yards and high fenc e" for high -tech industries and actively participates in 
seeking  agreements to disrupt global supply chain well established under the market principles by 
arbitrary government interventions. China would like to remind that such acts would never bring the 
world a more resilient supply chain. On the contrary, they are trade -distorting in nature and threaten 
the stability and predictability of regional and global supply chain. It runs counter to the WTO rules 
and the market economy basic principles as Japan al ways touts. It is a typical non -market practice. 
It eventually will bring harm to every stakeholder including those in Japan.  
4.14.  Third, Japan's irresponsible action to the global environment. Japan's decision to release the 
Fukushima effluent into the ocean i s a direct threat to every effort people make to protect the ocean, 
protect the earth. It is our great pity to see that Japan, a constructive participant in the trade 
environment discussions at the WTO and a strong advocate of sustainable development for f ishery 
resources, would adopt such an action. China calls for Japan to take responsible actions in line with 
its commitment and obligations in the WTO and other international organizations.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 14 - 
 
4.15.  As is shown in the Secretariat Report, Japan has adopted effective  policies aiming at economic 
recovery from the pandemic and in the meantime addressing the structural problems of its economy. 
China expects Japan to continue playing its positive role in trade and economic cooperation regionally 
and globally . To this end,  it is important for every Member to oppose trade protectionism and 
unilateralism, safeguarding open trade and enhance the multilateral trading system.  
4.16.  Finally, we thank Japan for providing replies to our advance questions. They are being studied 
carefully . I wish the TPR of Japan a full success and the Japanese delegations a good stay in Ge neva.  
PHILIPPINES  
4.17.  The Philippines warmly welcomes and congratulates the delegation of Japan led by 
H.E. Mr Akihiro O kochi, Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador 
in charge of Economic Diplomacy , as well as H .E. Mr Kazuyuki  Yamazaki  of the Permanent Mission 
of Japan on their 15th Trade Policy Review. We also thank Ambassador João  Aguiar  Machado of the 
European  Union for his ins ightful comments as discussant, and the WTO Secretariat for its 
comprehensive Report.  
4.18.  We also associate with the ASEAN statement to be delivered by Indonesia noting the 
significant role that Japan plays in the region as its fourth  largest trading partner a nd third -largest 
source of FDI. We are also happy to celebrate the 50th anniversary of ASEAN -Japan relations this 
year and affirm the sustained cooperation through the "ASEAN -Japan Economic Co -creation Vision " 
focused on the four pillars of sustainability,  innovation, connectivity , and human capital.  
4.19.  The Philippines enjoys long -standing  bilateral relations with Japan given our shared values 
and interests as well as increasing volume of people -to-people exchanges , and as an aside, I  have 
recently read that there are now more than 460  Japanese restaurants  registered  in the Philippines,  
that is  a threefold increase from 2012, so I can say the Philippines has  converted into a Ramen 
nation.  
4.20.  A few weeks ago, President Marcos visited Japan to strengthen our partnership on several 
priority areas such as agriculture, renewable energy, digital transformation, infrastructure, defence , 
and security.  
4.21.  Japan is our largest bilateral development partner  and is providing critical support for the 
development of sustainable mass transportation and infrastructure in the country. We also signed 
our first bilateral trade agreement with Japan through the Philippines -Japan Economic Partnership 
Agreement, which e ntered into force in 2008.  
4.22.  Bilaterally, Japan is the Philippines ' second major trading partner in the world with total 
bilateral trade amounting to USD  23.5 billion in 2022 and our third largest foreign investor. Among 
the Philippine top exports to Japan a re digital monolithic integrated circuits, ignition wiring sets, 
nickel intermediate products, bananas, and transport vessels.  
4.23.  As noted in both Reports by the Secretariat and Japan, the outbreak of the COVID -19 
pandemic adversely affected the Japanese eco nomy. However, Japan's economy has been 
recovering amid continued strong policy support since 2021. More specifically, to address its 
demographic crisis, Japan has undertaken various reforms to increase labour  supply, productivity, 
and wages in recent year s and we would encourage continued mode  4 liberalization for skilled 
workers. We have taken note of the people -centred  nature of the Government 's Grand Design and 
Action Plan for a New Form of Capitalism to transform Japan 's economy through investments in 
innovation, decarbonization , and the digital economy.  
4.24.  The Philippines further notes that since the last Trade Policy Review in 2020, Japan has ratified 
its Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the United  Kingdom and the Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP). Japan is also negotiating six new economic 
partnership agreements (EPAs) adding to its current network of 19. It is also participating in the 
negotiations in all the pillars of the Indo -Pacific Economic Framework (IPE F). 
4.25.  Likewise, Japan is a firm supporter of the multilateral trading system and an active Member 
of the WTO, demonstrated by its strong engagement in emerging areas such as services domestic WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 15 - 
 
regulation, investment facilitation for development, micro small a nd medium enterprises (MSMEs), 
environmental sustainability, plastics and last but not the least, its co -convenorship in the JSI on 
E-commerce. We also applaud Japan for becoming the first donor to contribute to the WTO Fisheries 
Funding Mechanism.  
4.26.  We note  the significant developments in the economic policies of Japan, and we appreciate 
the opportunity to learn more about these policies through this Trade Policy Review. Our delegation 
has submitted advance written questions and we thank the delegation of th e Japan for its timely 
responses.  
4.27.  In closing, the Philippines looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial economic 
relations with Japan in the bilateral, regional, and multilateral fora.  
THAILAND  
4.28.  Thailand would like to associate itself with the ASEAN statement to be delivered by 
Ambassador Dandy  Iswara  of Indonesia.  
4.29.  We thank H.E. Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister and Ambassador in charge of 
Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for his Report and Ambassado r 
João Aguiar  Machado  (European  Union) for his stimulating  analysis of Japan 's trade policies. I would 
also like to thank the Secretariat for the comprehensive Report.  
4.30.  Thailand and Japan have a long -standing and cordial relation, dating back more than  600 
years. The two countries established formal diplomatic relations in 1887, or 135  years ago, with the 
establishment of the Declaration of Amity and Commerce between Japan and Siam, making Japan 
one of the first countries to establish diplomatic ties with Th ailand and one of Thailand 's foremost 
economic partners.  
4.31.  Thailand and Japan have also developed strong cultural and educational links. Many Thai have 
studied in Japan, myself included, and there is a significant community of Thai people living in Japan 
and vice  versa. Japanese language, culture, and cuisine are extremely popular in Thailand.  
4.32.  Japan has been providing development aid to Thailand for several decades, focusing on a wide 
range of areas, including infrastructure  development, education, h ealthcare, and environmental 
conservation, including Suvarnabhumi International Airport, Bangkok Mass Transit System 
(Red line), and Bangkok Mass Rapid Transit (Chaleom Ratchamongkon: Blue  line), to name but a 
few. 
4.33.  With respect to trade relations, Japan ha s been Thailand 's second largest trading partner for 
many years, with the total trade value approximately USD  60 billion per  year. Thailand exports a 
range of goods to Japan, including automobiles, electronic devices, machinery, and food products, 
while Japan exports machinery, chemicals, and electronic devices to Thailand. Conversely, Thailand 
is Japan 's sixth largest trading partner globally and first among ASEAN countries.  
4.34.  Japan is also a major investor in Thailand. At the end of 2021, Japan 's FDI position in Thailand 
amounted to over USD  94 billion, comprising almost 6,000  Japanese companies, making Japan the 
largest foreign investor in Thailand, accounting for 32% (one -third) of total FDI position in Thailand. 
Japanese investment has been mainly  focused on the automotive, electronics, and petrochemical 
sectors.  
4.35.  Thailand and Japan have collaborated at many levels in numerous fora, including the WTO.  
4.36.  At the WTO, Thailand commends Japan for its active participation in upholding the rule s-based 
multilateral trading system, including the JSIs on e -commerce, investment facilitation for 
development, the establishment of a WTO informal working group for MSMEs, and services domestic 
regulation. Japan is a party to the plurilateral Agreement on Government P rocurement (GPA) and a 
signatory to the Information Technology Agreement (ITA), and participated in the ITA expansion 
negotiations.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 16 - 
 
4.37.  At regional level, Thailand and Japan are founding members of APEC and are original parties 
of the Regional Comprehensive Ec onomic Partnership (RCEP).  
4.38.  At a bilateral level, both countries have been involved in various trade agreements, notably 
the Japan -Thailand Economic Partnership Agreement (JTEPA), which came into effect in 2007 and 
was Japan's first bilateral free trade agr eement (FTA) with an Asian country. Under the Agreement, 
over 90% of Japan's imports from Thailand and over 80% of Thailand's imports from Japan were 
granted duty -free or preferential tariff treatment, where the utilization rate of Thai exports to Japan 
has reached more than 80%. This, together with the ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership (AJCEP) and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has significantly 
boosted bilateral trade and encouraged greater investment between Thailand and Japan.  
4.39.  Before I conclude, it would be a remiss of me if I forgot to mention the long -standing concerns 
about Japan 's trade policies.  
4.40.  First of all, the tariff structure of Japan continues to have a large number of non -ad valorem  
rates. Moreover, agricultur e remains highly protected by tariff and non -tariff measures and 
supported by subsidies. Each year, Japan enacts new SPS  regulations covering large share of 
agricultural imports and Thailand 's vegetable and fruits continue to face strict SPS  requirements, 
which greatly restrict our agricultural exports to Japan.  
4.41.  We also request the Japanese Government to provide more information about the support 
programs for rice (e.g., rice paddy utilization program and rice overseas market expansion project).  
4.42.  Finally, corporate subsidies, mostly through Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) 
and state-development bank and agencies, continue to play an important role in Japan 's trade and 
industrial policies. Our preliminary study suggests that more than USD  1 billion worth of Thailand 's 
current exports to Japan are put at risk from Japan 's unfavourable  trade measures implemented 
since January  2020.  
4.43.  In closing, Thailand is pleased to participate in the 15th TPR of Japan today. We would like to 
express our sincere thanks to Ambassador Kazuyuki Y amazaki  and his team in Geneva for amicable 
and positive working environment between our two missions. We thank Japan for replying to our 
questions and we wish Japan every success in its 15 th Trade Policy Review.  
ISRAEL  
4.44.  Israel would like to thank you  Chair;  the discussant Ambassador H.E.  Mr João Aguiar Machado 
(European  Union) ; Japan ; and the Secretariat for the detailed Reports. Israel also welcomes 
Mr Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in 
charge of Economic Diplomacy , from Tokyo , as the head of the delegation .  
4.45.  Israel and Japan have had close ties that extend beyond economic and trade relations dating 
back to 1952, with the establishment of diplomatic relations betw een the countries. Since then, our 
relationship has only grown and evolved. Our ties run deep, including not only bilateral trade but 
also cultural and intellectual exchanges and cooperation in science and technology — the last being 
an area in which both o f our countries excel.  
4.46.  Japan is an important trade partner for Israel. Trade in goods between Israel and Japan 
amounted to USD 3.2 billion in 2021. Japan 's imports from Israel are dominated by electrical 
equipment, chemical products, scientific and optical  instruments, and general machinery ; while 
Israel 's imports from Japan are dominated by transportation machinery, general machinery, 
electrical equipment, and chemical products. Trade in services has seen a steady increase in recent 
years, standing in 2021  at around USD 180 million.  
4.47.  In terms of Japan 's economy since its last T rade Policy Review , there have been generally 
positive developments. However, we are paying close attention to the ratio of public debt to GDP, 
which stands at around 263%, making Jap an the highest among developed countries. This, coupled 
with the challenges posed by an ag eing and declining population, is an area we are keen to learn 
more about, including how Japan plans to address it.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 17 - 
 
4.48.  Japan has been a keen advocate of international tr ade, which is reflected in its degree of 
openness and integration into the world economy and global value chains. Israel commends this 
ongoing commitment to international trade.  
4.49.  At the WTO, Japan is a key driver of initiatives aiming to develop the MTS fur ther. In this 
regard, Japan and Israel have had close dialogue and cooperation in areas such as the e -commerce 
joint statement initiative, where we both share some common interests and where Japan has been 
taking a leading role.  
4.50.  Similarly, in domestic reg ulation , we look forward to a successful implementation. In 
transparency, Japan and Israel are co -sponsors of a proposal aiming to improve transparency across 
the board at the WTO. We also recognize Japan 's active role across the WTO in a multitude of area s. 
4.51.  Israel submitted questions to Japan during this exercise, and we look forward to reviewing 
the replies in detail. The areas of interest for Israel include telecommunication and government 
procurement.  
4.52.  As we approach MC13, Israel looks forward to Japan 's contributions and constructive role 
across various ongoing initiatives towards a successful Ministerial.  
4.53.  Finally, Israel looks forward to continuing our close collaboration with the Japanese delegation 
headed by Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki . 
4.54.  Israel wishes Japan a very successful T rade Policy Review . 
UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.55.  Chair, thank you for leading this important scrutiny of one of the WTO 's biggest economies. 
In this new era of UK -EU cooperation let me thank Ambassador João Aguiar  Machado for setting up 
our discussion today. And let me also warmly welcome Japan 's delegation to their Trade Policy 
Review today, led by Deputy Assistant Minister  and Ambassador in charge of Economic diplomacy , 
Mr Akihiro  Okochi . 
4.56.  Our nations enjoy deep historical tie s going back centuries and Japan is now one of Britain 's 
closest partners in Asia. Indulge me a moment, as a lapsed historian, to take stock of the progress 
we have made together since English seafarers established first trading stations at Hirado  Island i n 
the 17th Century.  
4.57.  Today, Japan is a key partner with whom we share a vibrant bilateral trading relationship. 
Decades of partnership in automotive and electronics manufacturing , IT, energy, life sciences , and 
financial services have provided the foundatio ns for a dramatic expansion of industrial ties. 
From 2012 to 2020, Japanese foreign direct investment in the UK almost tripled. In 2021, Nissan 
chose the great city of Sunderland as its flagship global EV  Hub, investing GBP 1 billion in EV 
manufacturing and a gigafactory. Japanese firms contribute to the UK 's leading position in offshore 
wind. A Marubeni consortium is developing one of the world 's largest floating offshore wind farms in 
Scotland. From large tech to pharma to megabanks, there  are now around a thousand Japanese 
companies operating in the UK.  
4.58.  This association is deep and wide -ranging, underpinned by our bilateral FTA, the 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which came into force in 2021, further updating 
our collaborat ive and reciprocal relationship for the 21st century. The UK and Japan have also shown 
ambition in areas dear to the heart of the DG and vital to supporting trade like digital, on which we 
launched our digital partnership , in December  2022.  
4.59.  When our two Pr ime Ministers met in London on 11  January, Prime  Minister Sunak spoke of 
"an unbreakable bond that reaches halfway around the world ". And that 's why, recogni zing that our 
security is shared and indivisible, they signed a landmark deal on military cooperati on - the 
Reciprocal Access Agreement.  
4.60.  And we hope that our membership of CPTPP will further elevate the ties between the UK and 
its 11  Pacific partners, including Japan, to a new level. We are grateful to Japan for their support to WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 18 - 
 
the UK in that process a nd anticipate that this will not only promote trade and investment between 
our two great nations, but also demonstrate our ongoing commitment to the Indo -Pacific region as 
a whole.  
4.61.  We commend Prime  Minister Kishida 's agenda of driving the transformation of  Japan 's 
economy by digiti zation and investments in green technology and human capital. And we encourage 
Japan to match its high ambition with corresponding actions. As identified in our advance written 
questio ns, there are several strategic areas where we  would like to collaborate more closely with 
Japan. Some of these are global issues, like decarboni zation and digitali zation, where all countries 
need to do more. But to reali ze ambitions in this area, we must focus on ensuring that businesses 
can make the  most of these opportunities, by tackling the practical challenges that they may face: 
streamlining bureaucratic processes is a key example of this. Across the piece, we hope the UK can 
provide valuable expertise and support, and we look forward to continu ing to work with Japan on 
realizing these mutual opportunities.  
4.62.  We are glad to see that maintaining and strengthening the multilateral trading system is a 
main pillar of Japan 's trade policy. And I pay tribute to the wise guidance that Ambassador Yamazaki 
provides to his team in this House. Plurilateralism has brought much -needed energy and dynamism 
to the WTO. We are grateful for Japan 's cooperation in plurilateral initiatives, in particular as one of 
the co -convenors for the E -commerce JI, which will deliver modern global rules on digital trade that 
are fit for purpose in the 21st century and support the digital economy. This is a top priority for 
the UK and we look forward to working with Japan to conclude substantive negotiations in 2023. We 
also app reciate Japan 's efforts to launch certification requests for the Services Domestic Regulation 
JI in December  2022.  
4.63.  We wholeheartedly agree with Minister  Nishimura 's assessment , in his speech to the Centre 
for Strategic and International Studies , that we mu st never allow ourselves to fall into protectionism 
and using industrial subsidies to compete against one another. Our countries support a robust and 
effective multilateral trading system, crucial to the future functioning of the international order, and 
we must ensure industrial policies do not disrupt these important trade links. The UK will support 
Japan in holding high the banner of free trade.  
4.64.  We therefore welcome Japan 's focus under their G7 presidency on global economic recovery, 
strengthening econom ic security, and improving cooperation with the Global South. In the past year 
we have stood side by side with Japan and all G7 partners in supporting Ukraine against 
President  Putin's unprovoked aggression against Ukraine, and we will continue to stand to gether for 
Ukraine's freedom, for international law, and our rules based multilateral trading system.  
4.65.  We are pleased that the G7 Trade Track is now in its third year, an initiative pioneered under 
our own 2021 Presidency. We will support Japan to achieve p ractical outcomes particularly in the 
delivery of a comprehensive package on economic security that will help create a more resilient 
global trading system.  
4.66.  To conclude, as the annual cherry blossom viewing season approaches, we wish Japan a 
similarly sere ne Review and a florescence of success in their strategic trade programme, with the 
UK as a close partner.  
4.67.  And, in the spirit of a belated Trade Valentines, permit me to close with a short verse of 
optimism in the best of Japanese tradition:  Trade friends hip blossoms,  rooted in our shared values,  
garden of Progress.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.68.  Australia is pleased to participate in this 15th Trade Policy Review of Japan and  thanks Japan 
and the Secretariat for their detailed and comprehensive Reports.  It goes without saying  that 
Australia and Japan are neighbours, great friends, and great  partners in our region. But we are also 
neighbours, great friends , and great partners here at  the WTO. Our partnership at the WTO is built 
upon the common deep reliance we have  on an open and predictable global trading environment. 
Together we share a strong  commitment to the rules -based multilateral trading system and 
the WTO.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 19 - 
 
4.69.  Australia appreciates Japan 's commitment and close cooperation on WTO reform,  including 
on our shared priorit y on reform of the Dispute Settlement System . As Ambassador  Okochi said: 
significant repair work is needed. You are an important  contributor to this work, but we would like 
to make a suggestion of how Japan could  contribute even more strongly. We encourage  Japan to 
join the Multi -Party Interim  Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA) to fully protect and enforce rights 
and ensure the  binding resolution of disputes, while we continue to work towards an enduring 
solution.  Australia welcomes Japan 's leadership in  driving progress on the Joint Statement  
Initiatives. We commend Japan as our fellow co -convenor, together with Singapore, of the  JSI on 
e-commerce and active participation in the JSIs on services domestic  regulation, investment 
facilitation for developmen t and the informal working group on  micro, small, and medium -sized 
enterprises. We also commend Japan 's record of  notification compliance, and its demonstrated 
commitment to transparency as one of the  key pillars of the WTO and the rules -based global tradi ng 
system.  
4.70.  Australia is pleased to note Japan 's participation in the various trade and environment  
discussions underway at the WTO. We look forward to continuing to share our  experiences on 
achieving net -zero carbon emissions by 2050. We also look forward to deepening our collaboration 
on sustainability issues at the WTO - including in the second  wave of fisheries subsidies negotiations. 
Australia would also like to congratulate Japan  on its recent donation to the Fisheries Funding 
Mechanism.  
4.71.  Even great fri ends have differences. If there is one area where we think improvements can  
be made in Japan 's trade regime – it is on agriculture. We heard from Ambassador  Okochi  that 
important reforms have been undertaken to reduce tariffs, however we note that there a still a 
number of very high tariff  peaks on agriculture goods. We encourage Japan to  continue to contribute 
more strongly in agriculture negotiations here at the WTO and  would welcome in particular Japan 's 
further support for reform of trade -distor ting domestic support entitlements. With over 
USD 800 billion in annual global support to  agriculture, 87 % of which distorts markets or harms the 
environment, addressing  distorting subsidies is critical for global food security, environment and 
climate obj ectives.  
4.72.  Japan is a crucial bilateral trading partner for Australia. The Japan -Australia Economic  
Partnership Agreement (JAEPA) is the central pillar of this relationship and trade under  the 
agreement has increased 24 % since entry into force in 2015.  
4.73.  Our b ilateral trade relationship is complemented by our close engagement at the regional  
level. We are both founding members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic  Partnership and the 
Comprehensive and Progressive Trans -Pacific Partnership. We will  continue to work closely with 
Japan on negotiations for the Indo -Pacific Economic  Framework for Prosperity to tackle 
contemporary trade issues, including with respect to  supply chains, digital trade, and the clean 
energy transition.  
4.74.  This close cooperation is underpinn ed by deepening engagement on strategic trade and  
economic issues. Australia looks forward to continuing to collaborate closely with Japan  including in 
the WTO, APEC, OECD and G20 and we welcome Japan 's focus on economic  security as G7 host 
in 2023.  
4.75.  Austra lia recogni zes the economic challenges Japan continues to face from the COVID -19 
pandemic, including the impact of supply side constraints on exports, and the rising cost  of living. 
Australia commends Japan 's efforts on economic revitali zation, including P rime Minister Kishida 's 
key economic policies, "new capitalism " and "digital garden state ", aimed at promoting structural 
wage growth and investment. Australia encourages Japan  to continue pursuing economic reform and 
revitali zation.  
4.76.  Australia wishes Japan a successful and constructive Trade Policy Review.  
CHILE  
4.77.  Chile would like to extend warm greetings to Japan's delegation, headed by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, 
Deputy Assistant Minister at the Economic Affairs Bureau, and Ambassador in charge  of Economic 
Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We also welcome all members of the Permanent Mission WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 20 - 
 
of Japan, especially Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki, with whom we have worked in recent years to 
advance common objectives within this Organizatio n. We would also like to acknowledge the 
remarkable work done by both the Secretariat and Japan in preparing their respective reports and 
congratulate the discussant, Ambassador João  Aguiar  Machado of the European  Union.  
4.78.  Allow me to provide a bit of histor y to highlight the long -standing trade relations between 
Chile and Japan, which date back to the 19th century. The first Japanese vessel arrived in Chile's 
ports before the Meiji era and, some years later, in 1897, our countries endorsed the Treaty of 
Friendship, Commerce and Navigation, paving the way for the formal establishment of bilateral 
relations. The growth in trade between the two countries and their early interest in the other side of 
the Pacific  Ocean led to trade relations between Chile and Japa n becoming closer; it is a link that 
has proven particularly stable over the years, as well as fruitful, and together we have been 
promoting greater integration through the development of political, trade and cultural dialogue.  
4.79.  A cornerstone of this most recent phase is the Chile -Japan Strategic Economic Partnership 
Agreement, which entered into force in 2007, addressing subjects such as trade in goods, sanitary 
and phytosanitary measures, services and investments. This was the first bilateral agreeme nt signed 
by Japan with a South  American country and, in the case of Chile, it constituted a significant step 
that made it possible for the country to continue with its strategy to further its integration into the 
Asia-Pacific region. This agreement has al lowed Japan to establish itself as Chile's fourth biggest 
trading partner at present and one of the biggest investors in our country. On this last topic, the 
important role of the Chile -Japan Business Committee, a standing organization for private -sector 
cooperation, should be highlighted. The Committee aims to increase business between the two 
countries through the dissemination and implementation of benefits obtained through our trade 
agreements, and its 2022 meeting coincided with the 125th anniversary o f friendly relations. Another 
highlight of our fruitful bilateral relationship was the conclusion of the Double Taxation Agreement 
in 2016.  
4.80.  This synergy is expressed in other spaces where Chile and Japan work collaboratively: both 
countries are active mem bers of APEC, where they seek greater regional economic integration 
through cooperation and the sharing of good practices, thereby creating a free and open trade and 
investment regime. We also wish to draw attention to our membership of the OECD, our parti cipation 
in the CPTPP and our cooperation in the framework of the Pacific Alliance, of which Japan has been 
an observer member since 2013.  
4.81.  At the level of the WTO, the interests of Chile and Japan are also broadly similar, with support 
for a strong multila teral system based on transparent and non -discriminatory rules that provide 
predictability, but also adapted to the current context. We therefore agree on a number of initiatives, 
such as the Trade Facilitation Agreement, services domestic regulation, MSME s and investment 
facilitation for development. In our capacity as co -facilitator of the latter, we welcome the 
constructive participation of Japan. We would also like to highlight the leadership shown by Japan in 
the e-commerce initiative.  
4.82.  This Trade Polic y Review has taken into account the impact of COVID -19 on the Japanese 
economy, in spite of which Japan has remained committed to trade liberalization under the 
WTO-centred multilateral trading system, as well as a non -discriminatory, open and rule -based 
regime, which is something that we value.  
4.83.  In addition, Japan remains one of the major global sources of foreign investment, which, as 
we noted, is also demonstrated by the amount of Japanese investment in our country. On the other 
hand, we highlight Japan's  efforts to support sustainable and inclusive growth, as reflected in its 
plans to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, as well as the increased participation 
of women and older persons in the Japanese economy to address its demographic chall enges.  
4.84.  Lastly, in the context of this review, Chile has submitted questions on Japan's Intellectual 
Property Strategic Program 2022, the policy developments for manufactures, telecommunications 
and the role of SMEs in trade. We are most grateful for the re plies to these questions.  
4.85.  We wish Japan a successful fifteenth Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 21 - 
 
ICELAND  
4.86.  It is with the pleasure that Iceland welcome s the distinguished delegation of Japan to the ir 
Trade Policy Review , led by Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and 
Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy , H.E.  Mr Akihiro  Okochi . We would also like to express 
appreciation to the WTO Secretariat  and Japan for the Reports prepared ; as well as to the  discuss ant, 
Ambassador Aguiar  Machado, for the excellent framing  of the issues for our discussions today . 
4.87.  Japan  is a highly developed country job  with strong market orientation and Iceland welcomes 
the active participation and strong commitment demonstrat ed by Japan to the smooth functioning 
of the multilateral trading system.  
4.88.  As stated in the TPR Report , Japan's economy during this review period has been negatively 
affected by the COVID -19 pandemic, as well as other factors that have been and still are ch allenging 
the global e conomy, most notably the Russia n Federation 's illegal war of aggression  on Ukraine .  
4.89.  Iceland welcomes the actions taken by Japan to counter the impact of those factors, noting 
that as is often the case, they may have a disproportionat ely adverse  impact on women.  At the 
MC12 i n June last year, Ministers acknowledged for the first time the importance of addressing 
women's economic empowerment at the WTO , and by doing so, recognize d the positive benefits that 
it will have on our economies . This  is well known to  Japan and Iceland welcomes actions taken by 
Japan 's Government to reduce the gende r pay gap  as well as to increase women's participation  in 
the labour market.  
4.90.  As one of the co-chairs  of the Informal Working Group  on Trade and Gender , Iceland welcomes 
the good cooperation of our countries in advancing gender equality. The sharing  of best practices 
related to policies and rule -making on advancing women's economic empowerment  is an important 
element of the work of the Informal Working Group , and i n the spirit of supporting relevant data 
gathering in this field, Iceland has submitted in advance written questions on participation of women 
in the economy of Japan. We welcome the repli es as the answers will be useful in gathering  best 
practices and the promotion of gender equality within trade.  
4.91.  Finally, Iceland once again appreciated Japan's f irm support to the multilateral trading system 
and its active engagement with the WTO . We wish the delegation of Japan every success for th eir 
Trade Policy Review . 
SWITZERLAND  
4.92.  Allow me to join others by extending a warm welcome to the Japanese delegation led by 
Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic 
Diplomacy , Mr Akihiro  Okochi. I would also like to thank the Secretariat for its substantive and 
comprehensive contribution to this review as well as Ambassador João  Aguiar  Machado of the 
European  Union for his insightful observations.  
4.93.  Switzerland  and Japan share a long history of bilateral diplomatic and economic relations 
which started more than 150  years ago. More recently, Japan and Switzerland concluded landmark 
free trade and economic partnership agreement in 2009.  On a personal note, as the then Deputy 
Chief Negotiator of Switzerland, I keep very fond memories of those negotiations.  
4.94.  Today, Japan is Switzerland 's second largest export market in Asia  and Switzerland is the 
sixth largest source of FDI in Japan.  These few f acts illustrate the importance  of the economic 
relation between our two countries.  
4.95.  As the third largest economy in the world, a member of the G7 and the G20, Japan is a key 
WTO Member. Indeed, Japan has always been a keen supporter of the multilateral trading system. 
Proof of this is Japan 's active and remarkable engagement in the deliberations in virtually all WTO 
bodies, as well as its participation in the plurilateral agreements ITA  I and II, the GPA, and the Joint 
Statement Initiatives on e-commerce, domestic regulation, in vestment facilitation for development, 
trade and environmental sustainability , and MSMEs. On the latter, we appreciate Japan 's inclusion 
of a MSMEs chapter in its Government Report.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 22 - 
 
4.96.  This commitment is exemplary, a source of inspiration for all of us and we  would like to take 
this opportunity to commend Japan for its constructive contribution to a rule s-based multilateral 
trading system.  
4.97.  Switzerland and Japan share many interests across the whole spectrum of trade areas. This 
is reflected in a very close co llaboration in a number of informal groups and coalitions including, the 
Friends of the System, the Ottawa Group and the G10. Our two countries also engage actively in the 
WTO reform process to improve the functioning of the Organization.  
4.98.  As we face unpre cedented challenges affecting the environment, we appreciate Japan 's strong 
consideration of sustainab ility issues in the conduct of its economic policies and its efforts to combat 
climate change. We note its plan to achieve net  zero greenhouse gas emissio ns by 2050 and the 
goal of reducing emissions by 2030 to 46% from its 2013 levels.  
4.99.  I made it clear that Japan is a very important partner for Switzerland, at the WTO and beyond. 
We therefore pay particular attention to this review. Sharing similar positions to those of Japan in 
the field of agriculture, we naturally read the related chapters with great interest and asked a number 
of questions in this subject. Likewise, we posed some questions on tariffs, rules of origin and a 
selected SPS measure on  the import of Swiss beef.  
4.100.   The point that probably retained our attention the most is the new Economic Security 
Promotion Act, adopted in May  2022, which notably provides for a framework for ensuring a stable 
supply of "key products" and "essential infrast ructure services ". The Report of the Secretariat 
mentions that implementing regulations are under preparation. We asked Japan to elaborate on the 
kind of measures that are envisaged by this new Act and which sectors are concerned.  
4.101.   We look forward to the op portunity to engage on the few topics we raised and wish Japan a 
very fruitful T rade Policy Review .  
ARGENTINA  
4.102.   I would like to join Members in welcoming the delegation of Japan, headed by 
Mr Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister at the Economic Affairs  Bureau, and Ambassador in 
charge of Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and extend our gratitude to our 
colleagues at the Permanent Mission of Japan in Geneva for their excellent work. Allow me also to 
thank Ambassador João  Aguiar  Macha do of the European  Union for his presentation.  
4.103.   Argentina and Japan have a strategic bilateral relationship thanks to our shared values of 
democracy, peace, human rights and respect for international law. The bilateral relationship is 
characterized by close  friendship, which has spanned 125  years of diplomatic relations.  
4.104.   Since Japan 's last TPR, high -level meetings between our authorities have continued, such as 
the recent visit Foreign Minister Hayashi made to our country in January, during which he held 
meetings with the President of Argentina, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Minister of the 
Economy.  
4.105.   We have also made progress on agreements on investments and on cooperation in the areas 
of renewable energy, peaceful uses of nuclear energy, and space  and satellites.  
4.106.    As regards bilateral trade, Argentina wishes to highlight the significant recovery of bilateral 
trade in goods in 2021, which increased to USD  1,862  million, a six -year high and a year -on-year 
increase of almost 79%. Argentina's main expo rts were agricultural, fishery and mineral products, 
while our main imports from Japan were industrial goods.  
4.107.   In order to expand our bilateral trade, we are negotiating the opening of the entire country's 
bovine meat market, as well as access for fresh fruits.  
4.108.   At present, 60 Japanese companies have investments in Argentina and there is considered 
to be significan t potential to increase that number. There are particularly large Japanese investments 
in Argentina in the automotive sector, lithium mining, service providers and software development. WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 23 - 
 
In our view, opportunities to increase investments in mining (especial ly of lithium, copper, and gold) 
and energy (both in hydrocarbons and renewable energy) are particularly important.  
4.109.   Japan's economy is characterized by high diversification, income and development levels. 
Recently, real GDP growth rates have been moderate and the economy has been affected by 
difficulties arising from various issues, such as the economic difficulties caused by the COVID -19 
pandemic. Nonetheless, we welcome the fact that, after two years of contraction, the economy 
returned to moderate growth  in 2021.  
4.110.   In this context, we acknowledge efforts in pursuit of a greenhouse gas neutral economy  
by 2050, as well as reforms aimed at increasing workers' wages.  
4.111.   Argentina would like to draw particular attention to Japan's work as a co -convenor of the 
Joint Initiative on E -commerce and its active participation in negotiating investment facilitation for 
development. We wish to highlight Japan's contribution to the Fisheries Fund, which will enable 
technical assistance to begin to be provided under the Agreeme nt on Fisheries Subsidies. Similarly, 
we welcome the information provided on the public policies implemented by Japan in pursuit of 
increasing the inclusion of women in the country's economic and productive structure and we hope 
to see the active involveme nt of Japan in the Informal Group on Trade and Gender.  
4.112.   In the context of this Trade Policy Review, the questions submitted by Argentina are aimed 
at broadening our understanding of the actions that Japan is undertaking to simplify its tariff 
structure, th e conditions under which changes to tariff rates are implemented and tariffs are bound, 
and trade and investment policy measures to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, among other things. 
We appreciate the replies received, which will be carefully examined by our colleagues in 
Buenos  Aires, and we look forward to continuing the fluid bilateral dialogue between our delegations.  
4.113.   To conclude, in addition to reiterating our appreciation for this opportunity to exchange views 
and opinions on Japan's trade policie s, we wish to, once again, underscore the importance of this 
transparency exercise in all of its aspects. We wish the Japanese delegation a successful conclusion 
to this review.  
SEPARATE CUSTOMS TERRITORY OF TAIWAN, PENGHU, KINMEN AND MATSU  
4.114.   On behalf of t he Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, I would 
like to extend our warm welcome to the delegation of Japan led by Deputy Assistant Minister of the 
Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy , H.E.  Mr Akihiro Okochi. 
I would also like to thank the Secretariat for its comprehensive Report, and Ambassador 
João Aguiar  Machado  for his valuable observations and comments.  
4.115.   Japan's economy is the world 's third largest by nominal GDP, and is well recognized as of  
high development, diversification, and strong market orientation. Its economic performance has had 
significant influence on the rest of the world. We are pleased to see that during the period under 
review (January  2022 to October  2022), Japan 's real GDP g rowth had rebounded to 1.7% in 2021 
from -4.6% in 2020, which was heavily impact of COVID -19.  
4.116.   Japan 's economy faces considerable challenges posed by an ageing and declining 
populations. We face a similar situation. We commend Japan 's reforms to increase l abour supply, 
productivity and wages over the recent year to offset the impact of ageing population on the labour 
market.  
4.117.   Japan 's merchandise trade had recovered strongly in 2021 and had exceeded pre -pandemic 
levels. This is a welcome sign since Japan is a major trading economy on a global scale and is our 
third largest trading partner. The total value of our bilateral trade had amounted to USD  88.22  billion 
in 2022, representing a 3.39% growth compare d to 2021. With the recent lifting of cross -border 
travel restrictions and the continuous growth of bilateral merchandise trade, we expect our bilateral 
services trade will regain its momentum.  
4.118.   Our trade relations with Japan are close, multifaceted , and m utually complementary, in 
particular in the high -tech and ICT sectors. The semi -conductor industry and its supply chain are 
prime example of this mutually beneficial relationship. Japan supplies us with the crucial machines WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 24 - 
 
and materials for manufacturing most of the advanced IC chips. In return, Japan serves as one of 
the most important markets for semi -conductors and ICT products we produced. This partnership 
underscores the importance of our trade relations with Japan.  
4.119.   Japan has been one of our top sour ces of foreign direct investment (FDI). Our strong and 
cooperative trade and investment partnership with Japan has recently risen to an even closer and 
higher level, evidenced by the increasing two -way investment flows in the semi -conductor industry. 
In 20 21, the Taiwan Semi -Conductor Manufacturing Corp. (TSMC) announced a joint investment 
project with Japanese partners for a cutting -edge wafer manufacturing facility valued at 
USD 8.6 billion in Kumamoto Prefecture. This investment will create about 7,500  direct and indirect 
jobs. The total estimated economic benefits in 10  years after its entering into operation will amount 
to nearly USD  32 billion.  
4.120.   We appreciate the assistances and facilitating measures that the Japanese governments at 
every level granted  to this joint investment project. This project is a good example showing that 
Members can work together by facilitating and promoting more trade and investment to produce 
greater mutual economic welfare and make our supply chain more resilient and stable.   
4.121.   On the multilateral dimension, Japan has been on almost all the fronts for further liberalizing 
and opening trade and investment. We are pleased to work closely with Japan, together with many 
other Members, in promoting Joint Statement Initiatives (JSIs)  to ensure that the WTO is 
fit-for-purpose. We particularly appreciate Japan 's contribution in advancing the negotiations under 
JSI on E -Commerce. We also recognize Japan 's active participation and contribution in other JSIs, 
including services domestic re gulations, investment facilitation for development (IFD) and MSMEs, 
and look forward to further collaboration with Japan to bring about more concrete deliverables. We 
must also recognize Japan 's contribution to the Fisheries Funding Mechanism , which is the  first 
contribution from WTO Members.  
4.122.   Based on our shared interests, we will continue our close cooperation on the ongoing 
multilateral negotiations, including agriculture, fishery subsidies and the issue on expansion of TRIPS 
decision. We also look forwar d to collaboration and joint efforts with Japan in WTO reform.  
4.123.   We wish Japan a successful T rade Policy Review and look forward to an even closer and 
mutually beneficial economic ties with Japan in the future.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.124.   On behalf of the European  Union, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to the 
Delegation of Japan, led by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister. I would also like to thank 
the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Japan for their comprehensive Reports, which fo rm the 
basis for our discussion today. Let me thank the discussant, H.E.  Ambassador Aguiar  Machado, for 
the introduction to the main developments in Japan 's economy and its trade with the rest of the 
world since the country 's last Trade Policy Review. The EU appreciates the commitment of Japan to 
this important transparency exercise.  
4.125.   Japan is a close and strategic partner of the EU. This partnership is based on more than 
trade – we have shared values and principles such as democracy, the rule of law, human rights, 
good governance, the commitment to multilateralism, and open market economies. Japan and the 
EU maintain a close and constructive dialogue and cooperation in the United  Nations, the WTO, 
the OECD, the G20 and the G7, and for the latter we wish ever y success for the current Japanese 
chairmanship.  
4.126.   Under our bilateral Strategic Partnership Agreement, the EU and Japan are strengthening 
their relations across a wide range of areas, from enhanced political cooperation to trade and 
investment, from develop ment to the digital transformation, from climate action and energy to 
research and innovation, and from security cooperation to sustainable growth. The EU -Japan 
Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) enhanced our strategic partnership further and set up an 
elaborate institutional structure for bilateral discussions on matters covered by the agreement, which 
allows for close coordination, exchange of information and joint actions.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 25 - 
 
4.127.   In 2021, Japan was the EU 's seven th export partner and the eighth import partner  
accounting for 2.9% of EU 's external trade. EU -Japan trade has now fully recovered from the 
COVID -19 crisis. FDI investment in both directions has also been significant. The EU is Japan 's 
second most important investment destination.  
4.128.   The EU -Japan Digital  Partnership advances cooperation on a wide range of digital issues to 
foster economic growth and achieve a sustainable society through an inclusive, sustainable, 
human -centric digital transformation based on our common values and we are looking forward to  
progress on our ongoing negotiations to complement the bilateral EPA with provisions on data flows 
and protection of personal data and privacy.  
4.129.   We appreciate Japan 's commitment and on -going efforts to facilitate trade flows and 
commend the new Japanese C ustoms Law that is expected to significantly limit the import of fake 
goods sent directly to consumers.  
4.130.   The EU, in its questions, has raised several issues, among others on SPS measures, 
government procurement, and services.  
4.131.   As regards SPS, we welcome Ja pan's commitment to ensure speedy, simplified and 
science -based import procedures, adherence to international standards, avoiding duplicative 
assessments of elements harmoni zed at EU level, and we look forward to practical steps in this 
regard.  
4.132.   We invite Japan to further improve foreign companies ' opportunities to participate in 
government procurement for instance through abolishing non -regulatory barriers and by operating 
more transparent and accessible information channels.  
4.133.   We pointed out that there are unequal conditions of competition in the sector of express 
delivery companies for postal, courier , and express services. We invite Japan to redress these, in 
particular to make sure that domestic and international express delivery service companies are  
subject to the same customs clearance procedures and costs.  
4.134.   Recent years have seen the global trading system face new challenges, emergencies , and 
threats. In this context, it is essential that the international community work to maintain and 
strengthen r ules-based economic cooperation. The WTO - and its reform – must be at the centre of 
those efforts. The EU therefore highly appreciates Japan 's commitment to maintaining and improving 
the multilateral trading system.  
4.135.   Restoring a fully functioning Dispute Settlement System remains one of the EU 's top reform 
priorities. In the meantime, we invite Japan to join the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration (MPIA) 
arrangement that provides a temporary framework for resolving WTO disputes.  
4.136.   Making progress on multi lateral and plurilateral discussions are also essential pillars of WTO 
reform. The EU welcomes Japan 's participation in the successful outcome of the fisheries negotiations 
at MC12 and commitment to a result on the outstanding issues by MC13. The EU also w elcomes, 
Japan 's contributions to various joint statement initiatives including on e -commerce, investment 
facilitation, the TESSD and the plastics dialogue. In addition, we would welcome Japan joining other 
initiatives such as on fossil fuel subsidy reform .  
4.137.   An important pillar of WTO reform is the reinvigoration of the deliberative function – on which 
the EU has recently circulated a submission - to address global challenges with an impact on the 
trading system, including on state intervention in support o f industrial sectors. The EU appreciates 
its ongoing close cooperation on issues related to the level playing field and on addressing 
non-market and other unfair trade practices and looks forward to Japan 's active participation in 
future WTO deliberations on these issues.  
4.138.   Finally, the EU commends Japan 's commitment and contribution to technical assistance 
under the aegis of the WTO and its recent donation to the fisheries trust fund.   
4.139.   The EU is grateful to Japan for having replied in a comprehensive manne r to the advanced 
questions. I wish Japan a very successful Review.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 26 - 
 
UNITED  STATES  
4.140.   On behalf of the United  States, I am pleased to participate in Japan 's fifteenth  Trade Policy 
Review. I would like to welcome the Japanese delegation, led by Deputy Assistant  Minister and 
Ambassador Akihiro  Okochi. We thank the Japanese delegation for ongoing collaboration at the WTO, 
and appreciate Japan 's effort to respond to our written questions.  
4.141.   Japan is a vital strategic partner to the United  States, and a key nation in world trade. Within 
the WTO and other multilateral fora, the United  States highly values its close working relationship 
with the Government of Japan, and its cooperation on many topics of mutual interest. One of our 
top trade priorities with Japa n is advancing Indo -Pacific Economic Framework negotiations. We  have 
made great progress since launching the IPEF in May  2022, and thank Japan for the positive and 
constructive role that it plays in the IPEF negotiations. We further appreciate Japan 's ongo ing support 
for creating a high -standard agreement that can create sustainable and inclusive economic growth 
throughout the region.  
4.142.   We are also working closely with Japan throughout Japan 's G7 host year. Japan 's G7 
presidency has laid out two imperatives for our collective work. First, reaffirm the importance of a 
free and fair trading system as an integral part of the international order based on the rule of law. 
Second, mitigate the strategic risks that have become evident through recent crises, as part of a 
robust discussion on economic security. We could  not agree more with these priorities.   
4.143.   Finally, we welcome Japan 's strong support for the U.S. host year of APEC and our theme of 
"Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All ". We look forward t o welcoming Japan, and all 
APEC economies, to Detroit in May for the APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade meeting where we 
will engage on ways APEC can advance sustainable and inclusive trade.  
4.144.   Bilaterally, we welcome Japan 's engagement with us in the U.S. -Japan Partnership on Trade, 
which was launched in 2021. Through our Partnership, we  have coordinated efforts to respond to 
third-country digital regulations of concern, exchanged information on the non -market and 
trade-distorting practices of third countri es, and engaged in concrete action to eradicate forced 
labour  in global supply chains, including through the launch of our U.S. -Japan Task Force on the 
Promotion of Human Rights and International Labour  Standards in Supply Chains. Importantly, we 
have also  used our Partnership on Trade to raise remaining trade barriers of concern.  
4.145.   Japan is one of the United  States ' closest multilateral partners, yet in the context of this TPR, 
it is important to acknowledge significant trade barriers, particularly non -tariff barriers, that limit 
the ability of U.S. industry to access Japan 's market. And as allies, it is important to be able to speak 
honestly with one another about these issues, and work towards making real progress towards 
resolving them.  
4.146.   As a result, the United  States continues to look to Japan to take new, bold steps to increase 
transparency, reduce unnecessary regulation, abide by international standards, and remove other 
barriers to trade. I want to highlight a few specific examples: First, we remain co ncerned about lack 
of access to Japan 's automotive market for U.S. exports due to an array of non -tariff barriers. These 
include non -acceptance of U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety standards, spectrum assignments that 
do not follow global standards and pre vent U.S. technology from functioning in Japan, and subsidy 
schemes that provide disproportionate benefits to Japanese manufacturers. Second, a number of 
market access barriers remain for U.S. agricultural products. For example, imports of certain key 
agricultural products are carried out by state trading enterprises, such as with Japan 's highly 
regulated and non -transparent importation and distribution system for rice and dairy products, which 
distorts both consumption and imports.  
4.147.   Finally, in the area of transparency, U.S. companies across a range of sectors continue to 
cite concerns about the extensive role advisory councils and other government -commissioned groups 
enjoy in the development of regulations and policies in Japan, as well as inadequate imp lementation 
of public comment procedures and other methods of stakeholder consultation. In particular, there 
have been several recent examples where public comment opportunities for new regulations or 
policies were non -existent or unnecessarily short, and where new policies were directly financially 
beneficial to specific advisory council members who recommended them. These practices are not WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 27 - 
 
aligned with our close work with Japan on the promotion of good regulatory practices in multilateral 
settings.  
4.148.   Notwi thstanding the particular concerns we have raised, the United  States acknowledges 
and welcomes efforts and concrete measures by Japan to facilitate further market opening through 
domestic reforms and through further bilateral negotiations. The United  State s looks forward to 
continued close partnership with the Government of Japan in working towards our shared goals.  
COSTA  RICA 
4.149.   I would like to echo the words of welcome extended to the delegation of Japan, and the 
thanks to the discussant and the Secretariat for their reports.  
4.150.   Costa  Rica would like to highlight Japan's contribution to the WTO. Japan is a committed 
Member of the multilateral trading system and the WTO, and participates actively in discussions on 
the reform of the Organization and th e ongoing negotiations.  
4.151.    We concur with Japan that it is important to move the multilateral trade agenda forward in 
order to address current international trade challenges. In particular, Costa  Rica would like to 
highlight and express its thanks for Japan 's leadership as co -convenor of the Joint Initiative on 
E-commerce; we share its interest in concluding these negotiations this year. Similarly, we are 
pleased to note its participation and commitment to the result of the negotiations on services 
domestic regulation and to the ongoing negotiations on investment facilitation for development. 
Costa  Rica also welcomes Japan's contribution to the Trade and Environmental Sustainability 
Structured Discussions.  
4.152.   Japan is the world's third largest economy, as well a s a global benchmark for excellence in 
the Asia -Pacific region and a strategic partner for Costa  Rica. Japan is the second most important 
destination for our exports to Asia and is also the second largest source of our imports from that 
region. Costa  Rican  exports of goods to Japan grew, on average, by 28% per year between 2012 
and 2021, while imports of goods from Japan grew in turn by 24.5% over the last year, illustrating 
the high level of complementarity of our economies. The bilateral relationship betw een Japan and 
Costa  Rica has also been highly fruitful in terms of foreign direct investment, but there is still 
considerable potential in this area. We share a common interest in seeking ways to diversify trade 
flows and investment in our economies.  
4.153.   I would like to highlight some recent, noteworthy developments in trade policy and our 
economic outlooks:  
4.154.   Firstly, the Secretariat's Report notes a complex tariff structure, with ad valorem , specific, 
compound and other types of duties. The highest tariff rate s are concentrated in agricultural 
products, for which the average MFN applied is 18%, compared with 3.4% for non -agricultural 
products. We would like to know more about the implications of this complexity and tariff staging 
on the competitiveness of the m ost protected sectors, particularly agriculture, and their effects on 
the consumer.  
4.155.   As regards its economic outlook, the Secretariat's Report highlights that the Japanese 
economy is continuing to recover this year, but that threats remain, such as the effe cts of the war 
in Ukraine, disruptions to the global supply chain, rising commodity prices and debt sustainability. 
International trade and exports in particular have played a fundamental role in the recovery of 
Japan's economy and foreign trade continues to be one of the drivers of the world's third largest 
economy; the combined value of merchandise exports and imports exceeded the equivalent of 30% 
of GDP in 2021.  
4.156.   Japan's economic recovery has reaped the benefits of policies and reforms in three areas: 
firstly, the stabilization of the labour force by boosting the participation of women and older people, 
which has increased employment and offset the impact of an ageing population; secondly, the 
enhancement of Japan's integration into the world economy thro ugh trade agreements (Japan is 
party to 19  economic partnership agreements); and thirdly, improving the business climate by 
upgrading corporate governance, enhancing labour flexibility and mobility, and policies aimed at WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 28 - 
 
supporting SMEs. We would be intere sted to know how Japan assesses these policies and how it 
thinks they can continue to contribute to its economic growth.  
4.157.   Also noted in the reports is that the broader policies to raise economic growth include the 
promotion of digital transformation and gre en investment, support for start -ups, regional 
revitalization through digitalization, and enhancement of economic security. In this respect, 
Costa  Rica will continue to follow Japan's actions in relation to the digital transformation and green 
investment w ith great interest.  
4.158.   As part of this Review, Costa  Rica submitted a number of questions to Japan. We thank the 
delegation for their consideration and will examine their responses in detail. Lastly, I would like to 
wish Japan a successful Trade Policy Review . 
KINGDOM OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.159.   The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia is very pleased to take part in the 15th Trade Policy Review of 
Japan and would like to extend a very warm welcome to the distinguished delegation of Japan headed 
by H.E.  Ambassador  Akihiro  Okochi Deputy Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau.  
4.160.   We thank Japan and the WTO Secretariat for their detailed and comprehensive Trade Policy 
Review reports. We also thank the discussant H.E.  Mr João Aguiar  Machado , Ambassador and 
Permanent Representative of t he European  Union to the WTO for his insightful comments.  
4.161.   During the period 2020 to 2022, Japan's economic policies were guided by structural reforms 
based on diversification, strong market orientation and accurate development purposes.  
4.162.   The Kingdom of Sau di Arabia appreciates the efforts of Japan in adopting several large 
supplementary budgets in relation to COVID -19 pandemic, and commends Japan for the sound 
policies that put Japan as one of the major global sources of foreign investment.  
4.163.   The role of Jap an as an active Member of the WTO is obvious, and this is shown by the high 
priority that Japan places on the reinforcement of the multilateral trading system.  
4.164.   The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia and Japan have a strong trade relationship supported by their 
share d membership in the G20. In addition, the Saudi -Japanese Joint Vision of 2030 enhances our 
common economic and strategic cooperation in several fields including energy ; industry ; 
investment ; health care ; entertainment ; and small and medium enterprises. Tra de exchange 
between the two countries exceeded SAR  125 billion in 2021  which ranks Japan as the third trade 
partner of the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia. Japan is the second largest importer from the Kingdom  of 
Saudi  Arabia and the sixth largest exporter to the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia. While crude oil and 
mineral products are the major commodities imported by Japan from the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia. 
Vehicles and parts, on the other hand, are the main commodities imported by the Kingdom of 
Saudi  Arabia from Japan.  
4.165.   Moreover, Saudi -Japanese Business Council remains very active in paving the way for closer 
economic cooperation and generating valuable business opportunities between the two countries.  
4.166.   Before concluding, I would like to express my thanks to H.E. Mr Kazuyuki Y amazaki , 
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Japan to the WTO, and his delegation for the excellent 
cooperation between our two Missions.  
4.167.   Finally, the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia congratulates Japan for its solid economic performance,  
and wishes the delegation of Japan a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
BRAZIL  
4.168.   Let me start by joining others in welcoming the Japanese delegation, headed by Ambassador 
Akihiro  Okochi (Deputy Assistant Minister in charge of Economic Diplomacy at the Min istry of Foreign 
Affairs), and also Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki, who leads Japan 's team based in Geneva. We 
thank Ambassador João  Aguiar  Machado for his insightful analysis and you, Chair, for your opening 
remarks.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 29 - 
 
4.169.   I would also like to express Brazil 's sincere appreciation to the Japanese Government and 
the WTO Secretariat for their comprehensive Reports.  
4.170.   Japan is a key partner for Brazil in many senses. Our bilateral relations have been enhanced 
to a "Global and Strategic Partnership" since 2014. First an d foremost, our countries have deep 
human ties. We are home to the largest Japanese community abroad: over 2  million people in Brazil 
comprise the so called "Nikkei community". Japan, for its turn, accounts for the fifth largest Brazilian 
community abroad.  
4.171.   These human ties explain to a great extent the contribution of Japan to Brazil 's 
industrialization process since the 1960s, in particular in sectors such as autos, mining, steel, ship 
building , and electronics , among others. The stock of Japanese FDI in B razil is currently around 
USD 23 billion, with more than 700 Japanese companies operating in our territory.  
4.172.   The Japanese cooperation has also been essential to the development of our agriculture. In 
the early 20th century, with the help of the Japanese traditional expertise, we were able to diversify 
the production of grains, employ new technologies to fertilize our crops and implement phytosanitary 
measures. In the 1970s, the Japanese cooperation on agriculture research in the Brazilian savanna h 
contributed to Brazil 's soybean production and productivity, fundamental features of Brazil 's 
agri-business  today. We recognize and thank the key role of the Nikkei community and Japan in 
converting Brazil into one of the biggest food producers in the world.  
4.173.   Our total trade with Japan amounted to USD 11.9 billion in 2022, growing 11.4% from 2021 
and getting bac k above pre -COVID -19 levels. Brazilian exports remain concentrated on commodities, 
such as corn, iron ore, poultry meat , and coffee. On the other hand, Japan exports mostly 
manufactured products to Brazil, such as auto parts, chemicals, machinery and equip ment. Mostly, 
our imports from Japan are linked to the presence of Japanese multinational companies in the 
industrial sector.  
4.174.   As the third largest economy in the world, Japan underpins global economic and financial 
stability with its traditionally solid ma cro-economic policies. It is also a critical source of foreign 
investment to the world economy, as highlighted by the Secretariat 's Report.  
4.175.   However, we noticed that trade reforms have not advanced during the review period. The 
Secretariat shows that Japan 's MFN applied tariff structure remains very complex, with 272 tariff 
rates, 136 different ad valorem rates, 75 different specific rates, among other characteristics. There 
is also a very high level of protectionism in the agricultural sector, where non -tariff barriers are 
frequent and tariffs are more than five times higher than in manufacturing, at 18% on average. 
Regarding domestic support to agriculture, there seems to be a growing tendency to recur to 
production subsidies, to volume or price -based agric ultural special safeguards (SSGs) several times 
to out of quota imports and to SPS measures.  
4.176.   We believe that the stagnation in trade reforms is one of the reasons why our bilateral trade 
with Japan has been less dynamic, in relative terms, when compared to  other Asian partners. Brazil 
would like to point out to some areas where we need to make progress, if we are to resume a more 
consistent pattern of growth in our bilateral trade.  
4.177.   We believe it is in Japan 's interest to diversify its sources of food supply  to mitigate adverse 
effects of supply shocks and inflation. Brazil would like to see an improvement in its access to the 
Japanese agricultural market.  
4.178.   Some sanitary and phytosanitary practices implemented by Japan are more rigorous than 
international stan dards and not necessarily reasonable from a scientific perspective. For instance, 
the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) recognizes Brazil as "foot -and-mouth disease" 
free as a whole and "foot -and-mouth disease" free without vaccination in certain  regions. We have 
long been waiting for clearance for our beef and pork exports. The treatment we have been receiving 
from Japan is dissimilar than the one conceded to other trading partners that are exporting the same 
products to the Japanese market. We a ddressed this issue in our questions.  
4.179.   We hope we can improve market access to pork exports originating from the States of 
Paraná, Rondônia and Rio  Grande do Sul in Brazil, which have the same sanitary standards and WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 30 - 
 
status as Santa  Catarina, for which there  is already some quota allocation for pork exports. We urge 
Japan to speed up the process of evaluation of sanitary risks. In the same vein, we request that the 
Japanese Government take the necessary measures to conclude in a timely fashion the phytosanita ry 
risk assessment for the import of fresh fruits from Brazil.  
4.180.   Finally, taking into account the huge amount of Japan 's FDI stock in Brazil, it would be 
beneficial for trade and investment flows to implement measures that would facilitate visa 
requirements for our business communities.  
4.181.   Brazil appreciates Japan 's policy statement in the Government Report about the WTO. We 
commend Japan 's active engagement and participation in this Organization, in which we share many 
common goals, such as reforming and stren gthening the multilateral trading system and finding a 
long-lasting solution to the Dispute Settlement System . In this light, we invite Japan to consider 
joining the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA) as an alternative means to 
avoid "appeals in the void" while a definite solution to settling disputes is pending.  
4.182.   We thank Japan for the written replies to our questions, on issues such as dispute settlement 
reform, SPS measures, agriculture, and competition policy, among other issu es. They were 
forwarded to our capital for examination and follow -up. 
4.183.   Let me conclude, by wishing Japan a very successful and constructive Trade Policy Review.  
TÜRK İYE 
4.184.   We welcome the delegation of Japan headed by Ambassador  Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy 
Assistant  Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy , 
Ministry of Foreign Affairs .  
4.185.   I would like to thank Ambassador  Okochi for extending condolences to my country. We are 
also grateful for the help and support provided b y Japan after the earthquake.  
4.186.   We thank the Secretariat and the Government of Japan for their reports as well as discussant 
João Aguiar M achado  for his invaluable remarks.  
4.187.   Returning substance, first of all, we thank Japan for its responses to our questions.  
4.188.   During the review period, the pandemic hit the Japanese economy hard, but robust 
government support and the reopening of the economy led to a partial recovery. Supported by 
macroeconomic policies, the growth is expected to strengthen.  
4.189.   As world 's third la rgest economy, we believe that Japan 's responses to structural challenges 
in the global economy is vital.  
4.190.   We hope that progress in Japan in the post -pandemic era through innovation and reform in 
green and digital technologies will present a good example f or a further inclusive, resilient and 
climate -friendly trading environment.  
4.191.   In this context, we welcome Japan 's decarbonization policies with net -zero greenhouse gas 
target by 2050 and the goal of reducing emissions by 2030 to 46% from its 2013 levels.  
4.192.   In addition, we would like to hear more on Japan 's post -pandemic human resource 
development policies. Experiences shared by Japan in this context would be useful for a sustainable 
and resilient post -pandemic growth.  
4.193.   Furthermore, we commend Japan 's active part icipation in the work of the WTO. We are 
pleased to collaborate with Japan in several Joint Statement Initiatives.  
4.194.   Türkiye and Japan have Strategic Partnership since 2013, thus we attach importance to 
further strengthening our ties in all fields.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 31 - 
 
4.195.   Japan is our third biggest trade partner in the Asia -Pacific region.  
4.196.   We hope to maintain our bilateral trade in a more balanced manner.  
4.197.   In this context, considering that Japan remains one of the major global sources of foreign 
investment, we would be pleased to see more direct investments from Japan.  
4.198.   We also look forward to the conclusion of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), on 
the basis of mutual interests of both countries.  
4.199.   In conclusion, we would like to take this opportunity to thank Ambassador Kazuy uki 
Yamazaki  and his able team for the preparation for this review, as well as their contributions to WTO 
activities.  
4.200.   We wish Japan a successful Trade Policy Review.  
NORWAY  
4.201.   Norway would like to join others in welcoming the delegation from Japan to this re view and 
thank the Secretariat and Japan for their Reports. We would also like to thank Ambassador 
João Aguiar Machado  for his excellent remarks as discussant.  
4.202.   Let me start by saying that Japan is a very close partner for Norway, both bilaterally and in 
the WTO. Norway and Japan have a close and broad bilateral economic and trade relationship. Our 
economies are complementary and mutually reinforcing, and our indu strial exchanges have steadily 
grown into sophisticated value chains that benefit both countries.  
4.203.   Norway and Japan also share a number of economic priority areas such as energy, maritime 
transport and seafood, and a common ambition to transform our econom ies and adapt our societies 
to a low -emission future in accordance with the Paris Agreement.  
4.204.   In the present geopolitical situation, diversifying trade, maintaining stable supply chains and 
keeping control of critical infrastructure have become more importa nt. However, we should be very 
careful not to let protectionism and trade wars tear down the system that has served our economies 
so well for so many years.  
4.205.   In this respect, Norway commends Japan 's staunch defence  of the multilateral trading 
system. We als o deeply appreciate the role Japan continues to play in bringing the multilateral 
trading system forward as well as its unwavering commitment to battle protectionism and managed 
trade.  
4.206.   I will concentrate my remarks on two sectors, but before I would like t o say that we share 
the comments that many Members have made today not least our appreciation for Japan's 
engagement in the WTO,  and with that as well , I would like to join Singapore , Australia , 
the European  Union, and  Brazil who have also urged Japan's pa rticipation in the MPIA. 
4.207.   Norway and Japan are both key maritime nations supporting open and non -discriminatory 
market conditions for international maritime transport.  
4.208.   Against this backdrop we appreciate the efforts and results achieved by Japan and other 
members on including commitments for maritime transport in various international and bilateral 
agreements. This should eventually pave the way for enhanced commitments for maritime transport 
and better reflections of market realities also in the WTO contex t. By doing so we can contribute to 
strengthen the systemic function and relevance of the WTO as the platform for rules -based 
international trade.  
4.209.   Based on our shared interests, we look forward to continuing a close and constructive 
co-operation with Japan  and other Members in the work for predictable and transparent rules and 
commitments for maritime transport in the international trade architecture, including in the WTO.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 32 - 
 
4.210.   Fish and seafood represent a key aspect in the trade relations between Norway and Jap an. 
A wide range of Norwegian seafood is exported to Japan. Products like salmon, trout, mackerel , and 
capelin are particularly in demand and seafood from Norway represent an important part of the 
Japanese cuisine.  
4.211.   However, Norwegian seafood do not enjoy the same market access conditions as seafood 
from Chile, the United Kingdom,  or the E uropean  Union countries, putting pressure on the prices 
consumers have to pay for seafood in times where inflation in food items is a concern to many.  
4.212.   Japanese companies are also present in the Norwegian seafood value chain. This underscores 
that Norway and Japan have a common interest in securing open markets, predictable rules , and 
resilient value chains for trade in seafood.  
4.213.   Norway welcomes Japan 's efforts in strengthening cooperation with like -minded countries 
and sees a potential for strengthening our bilateral relationship in this regard. With a heightened 
perception of risk associated with supply chain disruptions, Norway has stated its willingness to work 
with the Japanese Government to develop our bilateral trade and investment relations further 
through an Economic Partnership Agreement, to the mutual benefit of both countries.  
4.214.   Norway wishes Japan a successful Trade Policy Review . 
DOMINICAN  REPUBLIC  
4.215.   At the  outset, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to the delegation of Japan, headed 
by Ambassador Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister at the Economic Affairs Bureau and 
Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  
4.216.   The Dominican  Republic is pleased to be part of this 15th Trade Policy Review of Japan. My 
delegation would also like to congratulate the Government of Japan and the WTO Secretariat for 
their reports, as well as the discussant, H.E. João  Aguiar  Machado, R epresentative of the 
European  Union, for his valuable comments.  
4.217.   With regard to the reports submitted, our delegation sets great store by the statement that 
Japan's economy is characterized by high development, diversification and income levels, as well as 
by strong market orientation.  
4.218.   It is also noted that, like the vast majority of countries, Japan's economy declined rapidly 
in 2020 due to the COVID -19 pandemic, with private consumption and business investment being 
the hardest hit.  
4.219.   We observe how, durin g the period under review, Japan's macroeconomic policies continued 
to be guided by a dynamic monetary policy based on quantitative easing, a flexible fiscal policy and 
structural reforms.  
4.220.   One issue for consideration that was raised in the reports and that  Japan has in common 
with other highly developed countries is its ageing population, which affects its fiscal situation. 
Japan's population stood at 125.7  million in 2021. Its economy faces considerable challenges posed 
by an ageing and declining populatio n; 28% of the population is older than 65 years.  
4.221.   Relations between the Dominican  Republic and Japan are becoming stronger by the day. 
In 2021, the Dominican  Republic held celebrations, attended by its President, to mark 
the 65th anniversary of the arrival of the first group of Japanese immigrants in the country. The 
celebrations highlighted the contributions of the Japanese population to our country's development 
in areas such as agriculture, fishing, transport, agricultural production (especially r ice, fruit, and 
vegetables) and the creation of independent companies. More than 800  Japanese descendants 
currently live in the Dominican  Republic, serving as a bridge to strengthen relations between both 
nations.  
4.222.   The Dominican  Republic welcomes and apprec iates the repeated efforts of the Government 
of Japan and the Japan International Cooperation Agency in cooperating with our country, especially 
during the global health situation caused by the COVID -19 pandemic.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 33 - 
 
4.223.   Regarding the economic relationship between  both countries, we appreciate the Japanese 
delegation's recognition during our own recent trade policy review that the Free Trade Agreement 
between the Dominican  Republic, the United  States and Central  America (CAFTA -DR) is an ideal 
platform for Japanese companies that manufacture products for the North  American market to 
expand their global operations. We also appreciate the recognition by Japanese companies operating 
in the Dominican  Republic's free zones of the speedy and appropriate customs clearance p rocedures 
in our country.  
4.224.   To conclude, we would like to take this opportunity to reiterate our thanks to the delegation 
of Japan and wish the country a successful Trade Policy Review.  
COLOMBIA  
4.225.   My delegation extends its greetings to Mr  Okochi and his deleg ation from Tokyo, to 
Ambassador Yamazaki, to the Deputy Permanent Representative Mr  Hikota, and to the entire 
Japanese Mission in Geneva, and wishes them every success in this Trade Policy Review. We welcome 
the reports by the Government and the Secretaria t, and the prompt replies to our questions. We  also 
welcome the report by Ambassador Aguiar  Machado and the work of the Secretariat in preparing 
this important review.  
4.226.   Colombia highly values its historical and cooperative partnership with Japan, which spa ns 
areas as varied as strengthening democracy, peacebuilding, education and, of course, promoting 
bilateral trade.  
4.227.   For this Trade Policy Review, Colombia is pleased to note that the Japanese economy is 
performing adequately, and sees several of its indica tors as a model. Given its enormous size, a 
healthy Japanese economy is always good news for exporters and producers around the world.  
4.228.   There are numerous positive aspects of the Japanese economy and its trade practices, as 
highlighted by the two reports u nder review. Today, we would like to make three comments as part 
of this review.  
4.229.   First, we would like to express a concern. While both reports make relatively brief reference 
to volumes of subsidies, both in terms of direct and indirect taxes in the special hozei areas and 
their free zones, and in general through direct mechanisms and development banks as financial 
intermediaries, we note with concern the growth of subsidy levels in Japan in recent years, according 
to figures available from the OECD, the IMF and various independent analyses. As well as tariffs, 
Japan uses subsidies to c ontrol the domestic market. These large incentives affect our ability to 
compete and develop sustainable agricultural and industrial sectors. In a world where large 
economies significantly increase their domestic support, those of small and medium -sized co untries 
will always lose out. According to our estimates, 90% of Japan's subsidy measures since its last 
periodic report have affected the Latin American region, even more than other regions. In this vein, 
we note with concern that figures on the total amo unt of subsidies granted by Japan vary greatly 
across different information sources, such as the OECD, the IMF and WTO notifications, especially 
as regards subsidies granted by Japan's development banks.  
4.230.   Second, we would like to thank Japan in advance for its replies to a large number of questions 
posed by Colombia on a very broad range of topics, such as green public procurement; strategies 
adopted to promote exports of agricultural and forestry products; guidelines under the Japanese Act 
on Facilitating t he Export of Agricultural Products of 2020; the changes introduced by policy reforms 
for small and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs); the purpose and meaning of "university startups"; 
Japan's membership of various organizations, including regional fisheries management organizations 
and arrangements (RFMOs and RFMAs); and its trade and nationality balance, with Latin  America in 
particular, in terms of royalties for the use of intellectual property. These questions and answers 
outline concerns but also present opportunities for building closer trade relations.  
4.231.   Third, we would like to stress that Japan has traditionally been a driving force in the global 
economy and the multilateral trading system. Japan has always played a prominent leadership role 
in this Organ ization. Given the current systemic challenges and opportunities, particularly the 
challenge presented by climate change and obstacles to the functioning of the pillars of this WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 34 - 
 
Organization, we encourage Japan to continue and intensify its efforts to impro ve and strengthen 
the WTO, and maintain its mandatory disciplines.  
4.232.   Lastly, we consider this to be an excellent opportunity to invite Japan to join the Multi -Party 
Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement based on Article  25 of the DSU. We are confident that  
Japan's membership of this initiative would benefit all Members and strengthen our joint efforts to 
address the challenges of maintaining an operational Dispute Settlement Body while the Appellate 
Body is being restored. We hope that Japan joins us in thi s important initiative which provides access 
to justice.  
4.233.   We wish the Japanese delegation a successful Trade Policy Review. Colombia is always open 
to strengthening its strategic trade relationship and wishes to acknowledge the positive working 
relationshi p in numerous areas between the two missions in Geneva.  
NEW ZEALAND  
4.234.   New Zealand welcomes this opportunity to participate in th e Trade Policy Review of Japan.  
We further wish to welcome Mr  Akihiro  Okochi and H.E. Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki delegation 
to Geneva. We thank both the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Japan for their extensive 
and detailed work in preparing this review, and the insightful remarks from the discussant.  
4.235.   New Zealand deeply values our strong economic partnership with Japan, which  is supported 
by long -standing and complementary business relationships. Japan is our fourth -largest trading 
partner, an important source of high -quality investment, a key market for our exports – particularly 
high-value goods and services – and a crucial partner for our shared transformation to green 
economies.  
4.236.   Japan and New  Zealand also share many of the same values, including our strong 
commitment to free and open trade, multilateral cooperation, peace and security, international law, 
human rights , and the international rules -based order.  
4.237.   New Zealand and Japan enjoy close collaboration across a range of WTO work streams, 
including in relation to strengthening the rules -based system through the Ottawa  Group on WTO 
reform. We look forward to continuing this close collaboration through the recently launched 
Coalition of Trade Ministers on Climate.  
4.238.   There are many areas in which Japan has demonstrated leadership at the WTO, including 
providing the Chair of  Committees such as the Committee on Market Access. It is a co -chair of the 
JSI on e-commerce, and has been an active participant in as negotiations on services domestic 
regulation and investment facilitation for development, as well as workstreams on MSME s and 
women 's economic empowerment. We congratulate Japan for the critical role it has played to 
advance these and other issues, and look forward to ongoing work together on these issues. We 
also encourage it to consider participation in other initiatives such as the Ministerial Statement on 
Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform and the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA).  
4.239.   New Zealand commends Japan for moving forward with its acceptance of the Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies in the WTO. We urg e Japan to ensure its fisheries subsidies do not contribute to 
illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing or overfishing and overcapacity, and we look forward to 
the depositing of Japan 's instrument of acceptance.  
4.240.   Another important connection with Japan is our shared membership of the Comprehensive 
and Progressive Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership (RCEP), which provide a framework for further liberali zation and diversification of trade. 
We value our stro ng working relationship with Japan within these important agreements to maintain 
their effectiveness, integrity , and high standards.  
4.241.   New Zealand has appreciated our on -going dialogue with Japan on CPTPP tariff -rate quota 
administration and looks forward to  continuing to work constructively with Japan on the full 
utilization of market access opportunities under the agreement.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 35 - 
 
4.242.   New Zealand has noted a plateau in Japan 's agricultural support, following 10 years of 
consistent reduction. We hope Japan will conti nue to gradually reduce its support to agriculture, 
while still providing government policies for sustainable agriculture and vibrant rural communities. 
We remain interested in the reforms Japan plans to undertake in order to reduce trade -distorting 
forms of agricultural support.  
4.243.   Over many years, New  Zealand has sought to deepen collaboration with Japan 's agricultural 
sector. Since 2014, successive Prime  Ministers have reaffirmed our Partnership in Food and 
Agriculture, which sees us sharing technical knowl edge and export systems to support Japan 's food 
system. We also hope that Japan will support ongoing efforts to secure strengthened WTO disciplines 
on WTO members ' domestic support to agriculture.  
4.244.   New Zealand also commends Japan for its ambitious commitmen t to reduce greenhouse gas 
emissions, including through efforts to develop renewable energy sources. We urge Japan to 
rationali ze its ongoing investment in coal -powered plants and coal burning technology, in line with 
its stated 2050 Carbon Net Zero goals.   
4.245.   Finally, New  Zealand applauds Japan 's continued progress towards a more resilient, 
dynamic, and inclusive economy as it recovers from the COVID -19 pandemic. We recogni ze Japan 's 
record of accomplishment as a leader within regional and global economic architecture, and warmly 
welcome its ongoing leadership in international trade and trade policy.  
4.246.   With those reflections, New  Zealand congratulates Japan on its Trade Policy Review and we 
look forward to deepening our already strong, constructive trading relationship.  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.247.   I would like to start by extending a warm welcome to the delegation of Japan led by 
Mr Akihiro O kochi, Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in 
charge of Economic Diplomacy . I would also like to thank the discussant H.E.  Mr João 
Aguiar  Machado  of the European  Union for his insightful remarks, and the Secretariat for preparing 
the comprehensive report.  
4.248.   Hong Kong,  China and Japan have been enjoying robust trade and economic relations. Japan 
is our sixth largest partner in merchandise trade. Despite the pandemic, our bilateral trade in goods 
recorded an encouraging year -on-year growth of 11.5% in 2021, with trade value amounting to 
USD 50.1 billion.  
4.249.   Japan is also our fifth largest partner in services trade. In 2020, our bilateral trade in services 
amounted to US D 5.2 billion. With the lifting of COVID -19 travel restricti ons in Hong  Kong, we look 
forward to more business and tourist travels between Hong  Kong and Japan, which would benefit 
the travel and transport services of both sides.  
4.250.   We have the following observations on Japan 's trade policy regime.  
4.251.   First, on trade facilitation, we appreciate Japan 's active contributions in capacity building and 
experience sharing at the Committee on Trade Facilitation throughout the years, including its 
responses to the pandemic. We also welcome Japan 's efforts to further digitali ze and simplify its 
customs procedures by introducing the Smart Customs Plan 2020 and amending its Customs Act 
in 2021.  
4.252.   Second, on tariff. We appreciate that Japan has bound 98% of its total tariff lines at a simple 
average rate of 6.4% and the percentage of  duty-free tariff lines has slightly increased from 40.5% 
in 2019 to 40.9% in 2022. However, Japan 's rather complicated MFN applied tariff structure and 
application of non -ad valorem  rates in 7.3% of its tariff lines have reduced the predictability of its 
tariff regime. We would encourage Japan to consider converting the non -ad valorem  rates to 
ad valorem  ones.  
4.253.   Turning to agriculture, we note that Japan 's agricultural sector remains relatively protected: 
the average applied MFN rate for agricultural product s was 18% in 2022, compared with 3.4% for 
non-agricultural products. We also note that Japan provided a range of support to the sector through WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 36 - 
 
border measures and domestic measures, with "amber box " measures making up 22% of Japan 's 
agriculture domestic su pport notified to the WTO. We would encourage Japan to further liberali ze 
trade in its agricultural sector.  
4.254.   Finally, on services. The services sector, which constitutes the backbone of Japan 's economy, 
was hard hit by the pandemic in 2020 before its recove ry in 2021. As both Hong  Kong,  China and 
Japan are services -oriented economies, we look forward to working even closer with Japan in the 
multilateral context with a view to pursuing progressive liberali zation of trade in services.  
4.255.   Japan has been an active and constructive Member of the rules -based multilateral trading 
system. Hong  Kong,  China looks forward to continuing working with Japan on issues of mutual 
concern, and deepening our bilateral ties on all fronts. I would like to thank Japan for their repli es 
to our written questions and wish Japan a successful and fruitful Trade Policy Review . 
BRUNEI  DARUSSALAM  
4.256.   Brunei  Darussalam associates itself with the ASEAN statement to be delivered by Indonesia, 
and joins in warmly welcoming the delegation from Japan led by H .E. Ambassador Akihiro  Okochi , 
Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.  
4.257.   We thank the Government of Japan and the WTO Secretariat for their comprehensive reports 
and H .E. Ambassador  João Aguiar Machado of the European  Union for his role as the discussant.  
4.258.   Brunei  Darussalam and Japan established diplomatic relations on 2  April 1984, and we have 
a strong, long -standing, bilateral relationship with Japan that covers many areas of coope ration from 
trade and investment, energy, health, education , and people -to-people exchanges.  
4.259.   In 2021, Japan ranked second in terms of Brunei  Darussalam' s export partners, valued at 
BND 3.021  billion that mainly comprises of oil and gas products. Meanwhile  our import from Japan 
consists of machineries, transport equipment , and metal products.  
4.260.   Moreover, we value the presence of Japanese companies in the country that has played an 
important role towards the realization of Brunei  Darussalam's  economic diversif ication goal and at 
the same time, generated local employment.  
4.261.   In this connection, as our countries work to achieve a more sustainable growth post 
COVID -19, Brunei  Darussalam looks forward to further strengthen our bilateral cooperation across 
many sector s including through the review of the Brunei -Japan Economic Partnership Agreement 
(BJEPA).  
4.262.   Brunei  Darussalam and Japan are also closely linked through ASEAN. We have maintained 
robust economic cooperation through the ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic Par tnership 
(AJCEP) and most recently the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). We look 
forward to celebrating the "50th Year of ASEAN -Japan Friendship and Cooperation " and we welcome 
the strengthening of ASEAN -Japan Economic Relationship as one  of the outcomes of the 
ASEAN -Japan Commemorative Summit this December with a focus to enhance cooperation in supply 
chain resilience, digitalization, human resources development and connectivity, among others.  
4.263.   We commend Japan 's continued commitment to trade liberalization under the multilateral 
trading system centred  on the WTO. Brunei  Darussalam also appreciates Japan 's active engagement 
in this Organization, including its role as co -convener of the JSI on e-commerce which 
Brunei Darussalam  is a party to. We also value our engagement with Japan in the various multilateral 
fora including APEC, CPTPP , and IPEF.  
4.264.   Brunei  Darussalam has submitted several questions in relations to the reports by Japan and 
the Secretariat and we thank them for their responses.  
4.265.   Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to wish Japan a successful 15th Trade Policy 
Review.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 37 - 
 
CANADA  
4.266.   I would like to warmly welcome the Japanese delegation to Geneva and thank them and 
their colleagues in Tokyo for their w ork on this T rade Policy Review . I would also like to thank 
Ambassador  Yamazaki  of Japan  and Ambassador Aguiar  Machado of the European  Union as well as 
the Secretariat for its support.  
4.267.   Japan is a vital bilateral, regional, and multilateral partner for Cana da. At the heart of our 
strong relationship is a decades -long shared commitment to the rules -based trading system with 
the WTO at its core.  
4.268.   Our bilateral relationship has reached new heights following a 2019 agreement between our 
two countries on a shared  vision for a free and open Indo -Pacific region and to strengthen our 
strategic partnership. We look forward to both continuing to implement the Canada -Japan Six Shared 
Priorities and collaborating to advance shared economic security objectives.  
4.269.   In a regional context, our mutual commitment to free, fair, inclusive, and rules -based trade 
is well reflected in our joint effort to uphold the high standards of the CPTPP. We look forward to 
expanding the Agreement and ensuring that it continues to serve as a model RTA that reflects 
21st century trading realities.  
4.270.   Within the WTO, this commitment is demonstrated by the leading role Japan plays in 
supporting the various different functions  of the Organization . We acknowledge, appreciate, and 
applaud Japan 's active engagement in the work of the Ottawa Group, and its leadership as one of 
the co -conveners under the Joint Statement Initiative on e -commerce. We also recognize Japan 's 
contribution as the first donor to the new Fisheries Fund, which will support imple mentation of the 
WTO's new Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies across the Membership.  
4.271.   As any strong bilateral trade relationship, there are also some issues that we would like to 
draw the Japanese delegation 's attention to, namely: ensuring a level -playing fi eld for imported 
forestry products and rationalizing foreign audit requirements for foreign competent authorities.  
4.272.   In its supplementary budget in December  2022, Japan enacted additional subsidies, totalling  
nearly USD 400 million, for its forest industry t hat could displace foreign forest products with 
Japanese products. This follows other recent measures that have deployed vast sums to support the 
consumption of domestic forest products in the name of easing disruptions caused by the 
Russia n Federation' s invasion of Ukraine and the COVID -19 pandemic. We encourage Japanese 
forestry and trade officials to create a business environment that offers a level playing field for 
imported forestry products that are sustainably harvested. For its part, the Canadian fo rest sector 
is committed to continuing to act as a reliable, sustainable , and ethical supplier of the wood that is 
used to construct homes and buildings across Japan.  
4.273.   Regarding audits of foreign competent authorities for food safety and plant health, we 
respectfully request that Japan consider the frequency of its audits; we also question to what extent 
these requirements are based on current assessments of risks to human, animal, or plant health. 
Canada is proud to act as a leading supplier of compliant, s afe, and healthy food and agricultural 
products for Japanese households, restaurants, and industry. Adopting audit frequency based on 
risk would reduce an unnecessary economic burden for both industry and consumers while 
continuing to ensure safety.  
4.274.   Turnin g to dispute settlement, we share Japan 's sense of urgency to address the current 
impasse at the Appellate Body. Canada and Japan remain steadfast in their efforts to work towards 
a multilateral and long -lasting solution in the form of a fully and well -functioning Dispute Settlement 
System accessible to all Members by 2024. In the meantime, the MPIA represents the best means 
to provide binding dispute settlement with access to appellate review in disputes between its 
participants. We strongly encourage Japa n to join the MPIA. This would send an important signal of 
support for functioning dispute settlement.  
4.275.   Canada looks forward to continuing its close collaboration with Japan as a bilateral, regional, 
and multilateral partner. We are grateful for Japan 's contribution to the rules -based international WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 38 - 
 
order over many decades. Japan 's current active engagement at the WTO is especially appreciated 
as we work to defend and strengthen the Organization and look ahead towards MC13.  
4.276.   We welcome Japan 's G7 Presidency this year and stand ready to work with Japan on its 
priorities, including the outcomes of the G7 Trade and Investment Track.  
4.277.   Finally, we appreciate this opportunity to exchange views with Japan on all aspects of its 
trade policy and wish the Japanese delegation the utmost success during this review process.  
UKRAINE  
4.278.   On behalf of Ukraine, I would like to warmly welcome the distinguished delegation of Japan 
led by H.E.  Mr Akihiro  Okochi. We would also like to express our appreciation to the Japan ese 
Government and to the WTO Secretariat for their hard work while preparing to the 15th Trade Policy 
Review of Japan.  
4.279.   Ukraine welcomes the opportunity to participate in this event and to know more about main 
developments, achievements and challenges in J apan's trade, economic and investment policies 
since the previous Review in 2020.  
4.280.   We commend Japan for quick recovering from the negative impact of the COVID -19 
pandemic with renewal of GDP growth rate trend by 1 .7% in 2021 and strong increase of trade 
volumes exceeding pre -pandemic levels after the fall in 2019 and 2020.  
4.281.   We underscore Japan 's strong market orientation and openness to international trade, 
particularly facing such multiple challenges as supply chain disruptions and increasing protectionist 
movements, and we share the need of strengthening international cooperation with the goal to 
ensure more diversified and stable supply sources providing economic security dimension and 
consistency with the rule of law.  
4.282.   Recognizing Japan 's active participati on in the WTO and its significant contributions towards 
multilateral trade liberalization, we confirm our readiness for further joint work on strengthening the 
rules-based multilateral trading system , centred on the WTO, to improve trade environment 
worldw ide.  
4.283.   Being the third  largest economy in the world, Japan ranks third among Ukraine 's trade 
partners in Asia and Pacific countries.  
4.284.   Until 2022, our trade turnover was continuously increasing, even despite implications of the 
COVID -19 pandemic. In particula r, it grew by 29 .8% in 2019 -2021 (from USD  1.2 billion to 
USD 1.6 billion).  
4.285.   Last year, because of the disastrous repercussions of the Russian  Federation 's unprovoked 
and unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine, the volume of mutual trade in goods between 
Ukraine and Japan fell more than twofold and amounted to USD  750.2 million in 2022.  
4.286.   Tremendous consequences of the war of aggression in Ukraine are significant for 
international trade, which plays a pivotal role for development of both Ukrai nian and Japanese 
economies as well as for the global economy, and therefore require continued global response and 
securing supply chains, specifically in terms of food and energy supply.  
4.287.   Taking this opportunity, we would like to express our sincere respec t and gratitude to Japan 
for the continued support and assistance to Ukraine and deep solidarity with Ukrain ian people, for 
the imposition of strong sanctions against the aggressor State, for all coordinated actions taken by 
Japan together with the interna tional community , aimed to restore free and open international order, 
shaken by Russia 's aggression against Ukraine.  
4.288.   We warmly welcome this year 's leadership of Japan in the G7 and appreciate focus on 
Ukraine in the priorities of the Group of G7 Ambassador s. We are particular ly thankful for all the 
support provided to secure Ukraine 's economic recovery and development, including ensuring the WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 39 - 
 
stable trade. All political commitments made at international fora such as G7, G20, OECD, etc. , to 
address issues related to Russia's  war are of vital importance for Ukraine.  
4.289.   Ukraine applauds developments in Japan 's energy policy aimed, among other things, at 
securing a stable energy supply and resolving environmental sustainability issues, including related 
to trade.  
4.290.   Considering  the hard situation in our energy sector and the unstable electricity supply, 
caused by Russia 's continued attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, we are very grateful to the 
Japanese Government for humanitarian and emergency grant assistan ce to support winterization of 
our electricity system and to protect the people of Ukraine, including help getting them through the 
cold period.  
4.291.   We appreciate that Japan actively encourages the private sector to join the recovery of our 
country. We welcome  implementation of relevant energy projects in cooperation with Japan 
International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and appreciate the readiness of Japan to help with the 
restoration of critical infrastructure of Ukraine, in particular by providing the necessary  equipment 
and facilities.  
4.292.   Ukraine is extremely interesting in further developing trade and economic relationship with 
Japan, despite the war and ongoing challenges.  
4.293.   The significant economic, scientific , and technical potential of Japan is an important fac tor 
for our bilateral collaboration. We are determined to continue to use the opportunities opened up by 
the transformation of our economy and further integration into the EU. We pay a special attention 
to cooperation with Japan Business Federation "Keidan ren" and hope for boosting win -win business 
relations and expanding our bilateral trade and investment.  
4.294.   Given the importance of this TPR exercise, Ukraine submitted questions to Japan concerning 
measures taken to address the negative impact of the population ageing on Japanese economy, 
particularities of Japan 's tax regime, regulation of Japan 's export credit agencies activity, experience 
in the area of promotion of innovation developments by universities, specifics of insurance against 
nuclear risk s, creation of decarbonization leading areas, etc.  
4.295.   We wish Japan a very successful Trade Policy Review and look forward to further 
strengthening our bilateral cooperation.  
INDIA  
4.296.   Let me begin by extending a warm welcome to the delegation of Japan led by 
Mr Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in 
charge of Economic Diplomacy  of Japan. India is pleased to be a part of the 15th Trade Policy Review 
of Japan. My delegation would further, like to commend the Government of J apan, the delegation in 
Geneva as well as the WTO Secretariat for their comprehensive reports. I also thank the discussant 
H.E. Ambassador  João Aguiar Machado of European  Union for his insightful remarks.  
4.297.   India and Japan share "Special Strateg ic and Global Partnership ". Friendship between the 
two countries has a long history, rooted in spiritual affinity and strong cultural and civilizational ties. 
Frequent high -level visits have boosted and further strengthened bilateral relations. India and J apan 
have steadily broadened their ambit of cooperation in diverse fields. I wish to highlight some of the 
recent initiatives. The India -Japan Digital Partnership was launched in October  2018, furthering 
existing areas of cooperation as well as new initiat ives in S&T and ICT, focusing more on "digita l ICT 
technologies " including the setting up "start-up hub " between India and Japan. The Supply Chain 
Resilience Initiative (SCRI) was launched in 2020 by India together with Australia and Japan, with 
an objective to ensure resilience of supply chains through diversification in the Indo -Pacific region. 
The India -Japan Industrial Competitiveness Partnership was launched in 2021 to jointly explore the 
possibilities of enhancing India 's industrial competitiveness. Apart from these, the two countries also 
partner in various other areas like skill development, energy, t ransport, logistics, manufacturing, 
engineering sectors, to name a few.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 40 - 
 
4.298.   Economic and commercial relations are an important pillar of this relationship. The signing 
of the historic India -Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and its 
implementation from August  2011 has accelerated economic and commercial relations between the 
two countries, however, immense potential remains that needs to be harnessed. Japan 's bilateral 
trade with India totalled US D 20.57  billion during FY  2021-22. Japan i s the fifth largest investor in 
the Indian economy with cumulative, FDI inflows of USD 38.13  billion from April  2000 until 
September  2022. In recent years, Japanese FDI into India has mainly been in electrical equipment ; 
general machinery ; chemicals and pharmaceuticals ; financial and insurance ; construction ; 
transportation ; wholesale and retail; and services sectors.  
4.299.   It is worth mentioning that of over 1 ,455 Japanese companies operating in India 
manufacturing firms account for more than half of them. With t he Japanese companies being market 
leaders in several Indian consumer sectors, we hope that the feedback from the Japanese private 
sector reflects more concretely in the trade concerns raised by Japan in various WTO bodies. Number 
of Indian companies prese nt in Japan is also increasing with over 100  Indian companies now working 
in Japan. Japan supports India 's efforts for accelerated economic development particularly in priority 
areas like power, transportation, environmental projects and projects related t o basic human needs. 
Accumulated commitment as of date is over JPY  6.876  billion with 77  ongoing projects. During the 
visit of Hon ourable Prime  Minister Mr  Kishida in March  2022, both Prime  Ministers expressed 
intention to realize JPY 5 trillion of public and private investment and financing over the next five 
years, to finance appropriate public and private projects of mutual interest in India.  
4.300.   While Japan remains an open economy, some of the policies that are restrictive in nature 
are coming in the  way of realizing the full potential of our economic partnership. I take this 
opportunity to highlight a few of them. High tariffs on food products like wheat, rice, vegetables, 
stringent regulatory requirements for sectors like pharmaceuticals, organic pr oducts, stringent 
technical quality regulations in textiles and apparels sector, use of restrictive private standards 
leading to WTO plus demands from exporters, SPS measures, reluctance to sign mutual recognition 
agreements  and market access restrictions in sectors like IT services, pharmaceuticals, steel , etc,. 
have resulted in excessive cost burden and barriers to our exporters of goods and services. We have 
heard similar concerns today from other trade partners of Japan. We hope that Japan will review 
these requirements to make them simpler, and reduce the regulatory barriers to trade, consistent 
with international norms and standards.  
4.301.   Also, as part of this TPR exercise, my delegation has submitted several questions on various 
schemes, policies and measu res of Japanese Government in areas like goods, agriculture, services, 
and intellectual property . We look forward to reviewing the answers provided by the delegation of 
Japan to our questions.  
4.302.   We appreciate the commitment of Japan to the multilateral tradi ng system and their active 
engagement at the WTO. Both India and Japan have a shared interest in a strong and effective 
multilateral trading system, and we will continue to work closely with Japan, towards achieving this 
shared objective. We also remain co mmitted to further expanding and deepening of our bilateral 
trade and investment ties for our mutual benefit. In closing, India wishes the delegation of Japan a 
productive and successful Trade Policy Review.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.303.   At the outset , I would like t o appeal to you,  Chair, regarding  the statements of a couple of 
delegations who spoke before me and whose intervention s certainly contain politicized elements 
which evidently go beyond the topic  of today's meeting and the mandate of the TPRB. We believe 
that repeating those political allegations  over and over again will not make them true or relevant to 
the functioning of  the WTO. So, I would kindly ask you, Chair, to approach those delegations and 
request them to strictly follow the mandate of the TPRB and the rules of procedure of th is body.  
4.304.   I would like to welcome the delegation of Japan at its 15th Trade Policy Review . We expect 
that this exercise will generate valuable insights and help Japan enhance the transparency of its 
trade regime.  
4.305.   We regret Tokyo 's decision to refuse to conduct its TPR in a proper manner. The precedent 
to blatantly ignore submitted questions was first set by the United  States  at its TPR  in WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 41 - 
 
December  2022, and now we witness Japan following this example, making Japan 's commitme nts 
to transparency in trade meaningless. This dangerous trend is detrimental to the multilateral trading 
system and harmful for the work of Organization.  
4.306.   As Members can recall, during the recent TPR of Malaysia, the Chair of the meeting stated 
in his fina l remarks that the Review will be concluded after all submitted questions are answered in 
full. I hope that Japan will live up to its WTO obligations and will leave no question unanswered, so 
its TPR can be considered successfully concluded.  
4.307.   The Russia n Federation  and Japan have a long history of trade relations that is difficult to 
nullify. In 2022, the Russia n Federation  ranked 18th among Japan 's trading partners in terms of 
trade volume. Russian export to Japan grew by 13.4% during that year and reached 
USD 12.2 billion.  
4.308.   The Report by the Japanese Government states that  "Japan has been committed to trade 
liberalization under the multilateral trading system centered on the WTO. Japan is determined to be 
fully engaged in this non -discriminatory, open and r ule-based regime ".  
4.309.   Regrettably, no number of written assurances of commitment to trade liberalization can 
make up for Japan 's actions in practice. The recent series of unilateral restrictions is hardly 
compatible with the principles of non -discrimination and free trade declared by Japan.  
4.310.   Since 2022, Japan has joined anti -Russian sanctions and restrictive measures enforced by 
some WTO Members. Japan revoked the Russia n Federation' s most favoured nation (MFN) status. 
Tokyo also prohibited the supplies of vi tal industrial equipment to the Russia n Federation . In 
addition, Japan imposed discriminatory price cap mechanism for oil and petroleum products of 
Russian origin. New investments by Japanese companies in my country, as well as lending for joint 
projects, are also banned.  
4.311.   Such actions severely compromise trade liberalization, dilute the role of the WTO and 
contribute to further fragmentation and erosion of the multilateral trading system. Not only are these 
measures illegal in the WTO, but they also have se vere negative consequences for the world 
economy, affect trade in goods and exacerbate global economic, energy and food crises.  
4.312.   We would like to once again remind the WTO Membership that applying political reasoning 
to trade and economics would only do har m to the multilateral trading system and along with it – to 
all trade participants in our interconnected world. Actions speak louder than words. We call upon 
Japan to return to the path of constructive cooperation.  
4.313.   There is a saying in Japan "to lose face " (in Japanese: menboku o us hinau). In our view, by 
conducting such a policy towards the Russia n Federation , openly violating its obligations within the 
WTO and ignoring the established procedure of the TPR, the Japanese Government is losing its face 
and its traditional reputation of a trustworthy partner.  
4.314.   The Russia n Federation  trusts that Japan would not dri ft further towards unilateralism and 
protectionism and would instead set its course towards maintaining a stable multilateral trading 
system.  
REPUBLIC OF KOREA  
4.315.   I would like to extend our warm welcome to the delegation of Japan for its 15th Trade Policy 
Review, led by Ambassador Akihiro  Okochi, I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to 
Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki and his team for their active engagement in Geneva. My special 
thanks also go Ambassador João Aguiar  Machado of the European  Union f or his insightful 
observations and comments as discussant, and to the Secretariat for its informative Report . 
4.316.   The Republic of Korea and Japan have been expanding  trade relations over the decades, 
leveraging  geographic proximity and complementary structures . As of 2021, Japan was Korea's 
third-largest trading partner while Korea was fourth largest to Japan, despite the declining  of 
bilateral trade in  2020 due to the COVID -19 pandemic, it has been steadily growing since then  and WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 42 - 
 
the trade volume has been even tually recovered to the pre -pandemic leve ls exceeding 
USD 85 billion.  
4.317.   Moreover, bilateral investment cooperation is also on a path to recovery playing a significant 
role in mutually complementing our supply chains.  On top of the bilateral ties, the two countries 
have been broadening collective efforts by jointly participating in mega -FTAs like RCEP and regional 
initiatives, including IPE F in addressing rapidly changing trade environment and tackling common 
global chal lenges such as climate change.  
4.318.   The Republic of Korea  takes note of Japan's  efforts in maintaining the spirit of o pen and  free 
trade during the then-pressing  circumstances , this has been instrumental in mitigating disruption s 
in the supply chains and effectively responding  to the effects of the global trade contraction . 
4.319.   Within WTO, the Republic of Korea welcomes Japan's commitment , and values  our 
cooperation  with Japan on various issues of mutual concern. Firstly, the Republic  of Korea recognizes 
that Japan attaches importance to ensuring its transparency commitment to Members while 
constructively participate in efforts to improve the overall transparency in the Organization. On the 
WTO reform front, the Republic of Korea ackno wledges  that Japan actively engages in  ongoing 
reform discussions to explore ways to enhance the effectiveness of the WTO's monitoring, 
negotiating , and dispute settlement functions with a  view to delivering outcomes meeting the needs 
of today's global eco nomy.  
4.320.   Furthermore, the Republic of Korea recognizes Japan's leadership as a co -convenor of the 
Joint Statement Initiative on E -commerce and its efforts to facilitate meaningful progress on a range 
of areas including TESSD. More broadly, Japan has been cont ributing to the global economy through 
strengthening its efforts to enhance the openness, stability, and the transparency of international 
trade in various communities like APEC,  G20, and OECD, as the Republic of Korea and Japan continue 
the joint particip ation in major economic efforts, the Republic of Korea expects that this collaboration 
will help advance  our bilateral trade and investment growth  in a more sustainable manner . Given 
the growing importance of the two countries' role in global trade and inv estment, the Republic of 
Korea believes  that it is crucial for us to constructively cooperate to seek ways to  contribute to the 
global economy while overcoming common challenges posed by the recent structural shifts  such as 
carbon neutrality and digital  transformation.  
4.321.   In spite  some differences from time to time, the Republic of Korea and Japan are united in 
support of a strong multilateral trade system, this unity is ever more required in this difficult time 
of global turbulence and uncertainty in pursuit of resilient, sustainable , and inclusive economic 
growth, the Republic of Korea firmly  believes that the rule s-based multilateral  trading system will 
become more important.  
4.322.   The Republic of Korea affirms that it will spare no effort in  continuing our constructive 
engagement with all Members  including Japan, in addition, the Republic of Korea looks forward to 
Japan 's leadership a s the Chair of the  G7 this year i n addressing global concerns to the advantage 
of the whole international society . 
4.323.   In closing, I wish the delegation of Japan a very successful T rade Policy Review.  
REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA  
4.324.   Let me start by expressi ng our appreciation and thanks to the Government of Japan and as 
well to the Secretariat for preparing this review and the reports that were submitted. I would 
particularly welcome the delegation from Tokyo led by H.E.  Mr Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant 
Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy. I would 
also like to express appreciation to Ambassador  Yamazaki and his team here in Geneva as well to 
the esteemed discussant the Ambassador Aguiar  Machado; and to you , Chair, for the work in 
preparing this review . 
4.325.   The Republic of Moldova welcomes the chance to comment on Japan's trade policy 
development since the last Review bearing in mind the importance and the role it is playing as a 
bilateral partner for the Republ ic of Moldova, but as well as its position as a strong advocate of the 
rules-based multilateral trading order . WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 43 - 
 
4.326.   We welcome Japan's active participation in efforts to strengthen and revitalize the WTO 
involvement in a range of important initiatives, includin g on E -commerce, Services Domestic 
Regulation, Investment Facilitation for Development, and on MSMEs. Japan has also been an 
important partner in the Trade and Environmental Sustainability Structured Discussions and, as we 
are approaching the International  Women 's Day, I would like to emphasize the importance of actions 
oriented towards women empowerment and welcome  Japan 's support  for the Buenos  Aires 
Declaration on Trade and Women's Economic Empowerment . We are looking forward to continuing 
actions in this field.  
4.327.   We commend Japan for its role in the multilateral trading system and for its ongoing support  
for the mechanism that ensure s prosperity for all communities, and we encourage it to continue to 
have a strong voice within this Organization.  
4.328.   Since this review includes a period of acute economic instability globally, we are pleased  to 
note and to welcome the positive st eps which the Japanese Government has taken to mitigate the se 
shocks, notably through the expansion of digital services for administr ative procedure for i mports  
and exp orts. It is encouraging to see that in this economic difficult period , actions such as this, 
demonstrate that solutions can be found, notably digital ones,  which can accelerate best practice 
sharing and improve the free t rading environment . As we know, this also builds on previous efforts 
of the Government to improve customs procedures as indicated in the previous  Review.  
4.329.   We would also like to commend Japan good transpare ncy record and would encourage it to 
continue its ef forts in this sense, setting a positive example .  
4.330.   From a bilateral perspective, we share more than 30 years of bilateral relations with Japan, 
having as a basis more than 40  agreements in different areas. Our bilateral trade increased in the 
last years, bu t still, it is quite modest. We are looking forward for ways to improve this situation, a 
considerable potential being in the food and agriculture sector, while trade promotion events are 
important and, for example, the Republic of Moldova will take part i n Expo Osaka 2025, we  believe 
that developing trade arrangements might be an additional avenue to be explored ; and like other 
Members and as indicated by the discuss ant, we would be interested to learn more on Japan plans  
in regard to regional and bilatera l trade arrangements . 
4.331.   We have also addressed specific question s on how the Republic of Moldova could improve its 
use of the unilateral trade preferences offered on the GSP scheme by Japan.  
4.332.   On another bilateral aspect, while trade is modest , I am pleased to  say that Japan accounts  
for one of the most important partners of the Republic of Moldova when it comes to investment with 
a considerable  number  of companies present in our country investing in various fields, including  ICT 
electronics, automotive industr y, and agriculture .  
4.333.   One of the sectors  that we are particularly pleased to express our gratitude to Japan  is the 
development assistance that has been provided to the Republic of Moldova throughout the years 
and recently it is humanitarian support to the Republic of Moldova, we have various program mes 
being implemented in our country  some of them in economic or trade -related field , in the agricultural 
field, but as well for the development of SMEs , energy , and some  other social projects. We are 
pleased  to note that this  appreciation goes not only for our bilateral cooperation but when it comes 
also to WTO  and to the multilateral trading system as Japan is also a major supporter and donor or 
various initiatives within WTO.  
4.334.   In conclusion,  the Republic of Moldova welcomes Japan's commitment to the rules -based 
multilateral trading system and its very active and admirable participation in various initiatives.  We 
also look forward to working closely with the team here in Geneva but also in Tokyo to strengthen 
our good cooperation.  
MALAYSIA  
4.335.   To begin with, allow me to warmly welcome H .E. Mr Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant 
Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy  of Japan 
as the head of delegation, our fellow colleagu e here Ambassador Kazuyuki Yamazaki as well as the 
Japanese delegation to its 15th Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 44 - 
 
4.336.   Our appreciation goes to the Japanese Government and the WTO Secretariat for the 
comprehensive review reports that have been our reference for this rev iew exercise. We also thank 
H.E. Ambassador João Aguiar  Machado from the European  Union for his insights and assessment of 
Japan 's trade policy development since its last Review back in 2020.  
4.337.   Malaysia welcomes the opportunity to participate in Japan 's 15th Trade Policy Review , and 
we also associate ourselves to the ASEAN statement to be delivered by Indonesia.  
4.338.   Malaysia would like to commend Japan for its continued efforts to facilitate international 
trade. We acknowledge Japan 's participation in various  free trade arrangements and regional 
integration efforts that promotes access to the Japanese market and attract investment.  
4.339.   At the multilateral front, Malaysia appreciates Japan 's diligent and constructive participation 
in many WTO initiatives that Mala ysia has also taken part in, particularly Japan 's contributions to 
the negotiations on the JSI on investment facilitation for development, JSI on e -commerce, as well 
as the fisheries subsidies. In particular, we laud Japan 's recent contribution to the WTO Fisheries 
Funding Mechanism which we believe would assist the developing and least developed country 
Members in the process of implementing the newly adopted Fisheries Subsidies Agreement.  
4.340.   Bilaterally, Malaysia and Japan enjoy an increasingly robust econom ic relationship. Total 
trade in 2022 increased significantly by 23.0% to USD  37.9 billion. In the same period, Malaysia 's 
exports to Japan increased by 31.2% to USD  20.51  billion compared to USD  16.65  billion in 2020, 
while imports increased by 14.5% to US D 17.39  billion compared to USD  16.16  billion in 2021.  
4.341.   Malaysia and Japan are also key partners at the regional level, by virtue of our shared 
membership in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership 
(CPTPP), and the Regiona l Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) which entered into force 
in 2022.  
4.342.   For this review, Malaysia had submitted written questions on areas such as agriculture, 
intellectual property rights, government procurement , and green growth. Malaysia is keen to 
understand the latest developments in these areas, particularly relating to the ESG adoption, green 
government procurement , and sustainability issues.  
4.343.   We would like to take this opportunity to thank the delegation of Japan for responding to our 
questions and we shall examine the responses with great interest.  
4.344.   We wish the delegation of Japan a productive and successful 15th Trade Policy Review.  
ECUADOR  
4.345.   We welcome the delegation of Japan present at this meeting, particu larly its head of 
delegation, Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister at the Economic Affairs Bureau and 
Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the 
members of its Mission in Geneva. We would like to p ay a special tribute to Ambassador 
Kazuyuki  Yamazaki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the WTO, for his hard work in this 
Organization.  
4.346.   Ecuador would like to join other Members in expressing appreciation for the work carried out 
both by the WTO Secretariat and the Japanese authorities in preparing the reports for this review, 
and for the objective analysis of the discussant, Ambassador João  Aguiar  Machado.  
4.347.   We, too, salute Japan's remarkable regulatory and economic stability. During the period 
under review, we note on the one hand that many policies have remained constant or have been 
adjusted in keeping with their spirit, while, on the other hand, there are new programmes, plans 
and initiatives aimed at responding to pressing current challenges.  
4.348.   Among the new policies, Ecuador observes with interest the plans to achieve net zero 
greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, which goes hand in hand with Japan's Environment Innovation 
and Green Growth strategies. The airport decarbonization plan is also worth hi ghlighting in this 
context.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 45 - 
 
4.349.   Furthermore, the Smart Customs Plan 2020, issued with a view to promoting digitalization 
of customs procedures and automation of customs inspection, underscores Japan's commitment to 
measures that facilitate trade through the us e of new technologies.  
4.350.   We cannot ignore the challenges posed by the COVID -19 pandemic in the period under 
review. The results show that the macroeconomic policies implemented by Japan allowed its imports 
and exports to recover substantially, and even excee d their pre -pandemic levels. At this point, I 
would like to express our gratitude for the support and solidarity that Japan offered my country 
during this global public health crisis, which hit Ecuador particularly hard.  
4.351.   Despite the economic and trade stre ngths I have mentioned, there are some points that my 
country would like to raise. We have found that Japan's applied tariff structure remains complex and 
that foreign companies retain a low share in the public procurement market, and we request further 
clarification regarding the registration of foreign conformity assessment bodies, among others.  
4.352.   The questions submitted by my delegation in the context of this Trade Policy Review cover 
some of these issues, as well as others related to the application of Ja pan's Generalized System of 
Preferences, regulatory measures, technical regulations, regulations for virtual currencies and its 
strategy for growth through the negotiation of economic partnership agreements. We thank Japan 
in advance for the replies it wil l provide in the coming days on these topics of interest.  
4.353.   At the multilateral level, we wish to highlight Japan's firm engagement in various areas of 
discussion at the WTO in which we share common aspirations, including the ratification of the 
Agreement on  Fisheries Subsidies; the plurilateral negotiation processes on e -commerce and 
investment facilitation for development; environmental initiatives, especially regarding plastic 
pollution, and the trade and environmental sustainability discussions; the infor mal working groups 
on MSMEs and trade and gender; and the Coalition of Trade Ministers on Climate. We have an 
intensive agenda with shared visions the purpose of which is to strengthen this Organization and 
shore up its relevance in the face of global chal lenges.  
4.354.   At the bilateral level, our trade is worth more than USD  700 million. In 2022, Ecuador's 
major exports to Japan included pickled agricultural products (31.2% of total exports), bananas 
(24.4%), shrimp (23.6%), cocoa (5.2%) and natural flowers (4.1% ). 
4.355.   In the same year, the main Japanese imports into Ecuador were other metal manufactures 
(29.6% of total imports), light motor vehicles (9.6%), heavy vehicles (6.6%), and engines and parts 
thereof (4.5%).  
4.356.   As can be seen, Ecuador and Japan have a very frui tful exchange, and we recently celebrated 
the 100th anniversary of our diplomatic relations. The recent visit of the Japanese Minister of Foreign 
Affairs, Mr  Hayashi  Yoshimasa, to Ecuador confirms the excellent relations between both countries, 
which we ho pe to develop yet further in the near future.  
4.357.   I would like to finish this statement by wishing Japan a successful conclusion to this Trade 
Policy Review.  
INDONESIA ON BEHALF O F ASEAN  
4.358.   First of all, Indonesia would like to make a statement on behalf of ASEAN . 
4.359.   It is a great pleasure to warmly welcome the delegation from Japan led by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, 
Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic 
Diplomacy  of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, to their 15th Trade Policy Review.  
4.360.   We thank the Government of Japan and the WTO Secretariat for the comprehensive reports, 
as well as H.E.  Mr João Aguiar Machado of the European  Union for his role as discussant.  
4.361.   For ASEAN, Japan has long been one of ASEAN 's key trade and investment partners. In fact, 
the year 2023 marks the 50th commemorative year of ASEAN -Japan relations. In this regard, Japan 
and ASEAN have undertaken concrete and mutually beneficial cooperation activities throughout the 
years.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 46 - 
 
4.362.   Despite the ongoing global economic slowdown, ASEAN -Japan economic relations still 
manage to thrive. On trade, for example, in 2020, ASEAN's total trade with Japan was 
USD 214 billion, with exports to Japan worth USD 104 billion and imports from Japan worth 
USD 110 billion. However, in 2021, trade between ASEAN and Japan rebounded, with total trade 
amounting to USD 240 billion.  
4.363.   Furthermore, ASEAN 's foreign direct investment (FDI) from Japan in 2020 and 2021 was 
recorded at USD 11.7 billion and USD 11.8 billion respect ively. These numbers signify the positive 
sign of resilience as well as the continued strength of the ASEAN -Japan economic relationship.  
4.364.   Despite this positive progress, and the fact that Japan has been ASEAN 's fourth -largest 
trading partner and third -largest source of FDI in 2021, it is still crucial to continue harnessing the 
potentials for economic cooperation, especially with regard to Japan -ASEAN trade and investment 
relations.  
4.365.   As such, we view that concrete implementation of some key cooperation initia tives between 
ASEAN -Japan, such as the renewed ASEAN -Japan 10 -Year Strategic Economic Cooperation Roadmap 
2016-2025, will be instrumental.  
4.366.   Moreover, through the implementation of ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership (AJCEP), both ASEAN and Japan can also enjoy a range of benefits, including tariff 
concessions, that can help to further increase trade, as well support economic growth, job creation 
and sustainable development in the region.  
4.367.   Furthermore, we also encourage Japan to continue its a ctive engagement in regional 
economic integration initiatives. In this vein, we welcome the Regional Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership (RCEP) Agreement in November  2020.  
4.368.   ASEAN also commends Japan for its strong commitment to the multilateral trading syst em, 
including its contribution and constructive involvement in several areas of work and negotiations at 
the WTO.  
4.369.   Together with Japan, ASEAN reaffirms our strong commitment to uphold an open, inclusive, 
transparent, non -discriminatory, and rules -based mul tilateral trading system as embodied in 
the WTO.  
4.370.   Last but not least, several ASEAN member States in the WTO have submitted written 
questions to Japan, and we would like to express our appreciation in advance to Japan 's written 
responses.  
4.371.   Finally, we would also like to thank the Japanese delegation for their constructive 
engagement and commend the contribution of H.E.  Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki and members 
of the Japan Permanent Mission in Geneva for their hard work. We wish Japan a successful 15th Trade 
Policy Review.  
INDONESIA  
4.372.   Let me join our fellow Members in giving the warmest welcome despite this freezing Geneve 
weather to the delegation from Japan, led by Deputy Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, 
Mr Akihiro  Okochi.  
4.373.   We would also like to th ank the Secretariat for its comprehensive Report, Chair and the 
discussant, Ambassador João Aguiar Machado of the European  Union for leading today 's discussions.  
4.374.   We still remember the last Trade Policy Review in 2020, in which Japan became the first 
WTO Member who conduct the Review in the virtual hybrid mode, amidst the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.375.   Let me start by commending Japan for its continuing economic achievements during the 
review period. As mentioned in the Secretariat Report, Japan's economy is the third l argest in the 
world by nominal GDP which stood at USD  4.9 billion and growth rate stood at 1.7% in 2021.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 47 - 
 
4.376.   In this regard, Indonesia welcomes the continuous efforts of the Government of Japan in 
trade and investment liberalization as central to Japan's overa ll economic strategy.  
4.377.   We applauded Japan 's three -pillar strategy which is a combined efforts of both fiscal and 
monetary policy expansion and structural reform, which were intended to strengthen business 
investment and private consumption, with a view to overcoming the prolonged deflation and 
revitalizing the Japanese economy.  
4.378.   Since 1 July 2008, the Indonesia -Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (IJEPA) has been 
in effect for 15  years. IJEPA is Indonesia's first bilateral trade agreement, this milestone cl early 
reflects Japan 's position as one of Indonesia 's most important trading partners with a total trade 
transaction valued at USD  32 billion in 2021.  
4.379.   Furthermore, in the context of ASEAN, this year ASEAN is celebrating the 50th anniversary 
of ASEAN -Japan  Friendship and Cooperation. Several collaborative activities and action plans were 
developed during Indonesia's presidency to commemorate the aforementioned event.  
4.380.   On the multilateral front, Indonesia also commends Japan 's firm commitments and 
continuous contribution to the rules -based multilateral trading system. This includes the 
implementation of Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies adopted at the MC12  in June  2022 by becoming 
the first donor to the WTO Fisheries Funding Mechanism. Such funding m echanism will enable the 
provision of technical assistance and capacity building to help developing and least -developed 
country members in implementing provisions related to the aforementioned agreement.  
4.381.   Despite these positive progress, however, there are still some key challenges that will 
hamper our common efforts in stepping up our bilateral relations. In this regard, I would like to raise 
our concern about Japan's trade policies, particularly its high level of protection in the agricultural 
sector throu gh tariffs and inspection. Indonesia also would also ask for a more elaborate description 
on Japan 's fisheries management and its impact to the environment.  
4.382.   Furthermore, Indonesia would also like to raise on other concerns related to the services 
sector, i ntellectual property rights, and investment, all of which are already reflected in our written 
questions. To this end, we expect the Government of Japan to provide clear clarification and response 
to these concerns.  
4.383.   Finally, we would like to wish this review every success.  
MAURITIUS  
4.384.   We warmly welcome the delegation of Japan led by H.E.  Mr Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant 
Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy ; and 
congratulate Japan for pursuing its 15th Trade  Policy Review.  
4.385.   We thank both Japan and the Secretariat for their respective reports. We also thank 
Ambassador João  Aguiar  Machado for his insightful remarks as discussant that helped start today 's 
discussion.  
4.386.   We note that Japan has recently adopted and is  implementing the Grand Design and Action 
Plan for a New Form of Capitalism with a view to resolving social issues and achieving economic 
growth. We are confident that such measures will make the Japanese economic and social structures 
more resilient and s ustainable, especially in the wake of the COVID -19 pandemic and other 
international and domestic challenges. We are also pleased to note that recent labour market reforms 
to address the demographic challenge have been successful in raising the level of emp loyment and 
offsetting the impact of an ageing population.  
4.387.   Mauritius would like to congratulate the Japanese authorities for its planned reduction of its 
carbon emissions to 46% by 2030, and for the promotion of green innovations and finance in this 
regard . As a small island vulnerable to the effects of climate change, we fully appreciate the 
significance of this.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 48 - 
 
4.388.   Mauritius and Japan enjoy excellent bilateral relations and we share common values. Over 
the years, Mauritius has benefit ed from technical assist ance and capacity building projects by Japan 
in many fields, including meteorological services, geotechnical matters, coastal ecosystem 
management and coastal surveillance. In the wake of the Wakashio oil spill , Japan readily stepped 
in to help.  
4.389.   We thank J apan for its continued assistance provided to Mauritius for our port development 
and maritime security among others. We look forward to continue working with Japanese authorities 
for the sustainable development of our fisheries sector and the blue economy.  
4.390.   We commend Japan for extending the effective period of the GSP scheme to 31  March  2031. 
The GSP scheme has improved market access for many developing countries, including Mauritius. 
We, however, note a trade balance that is highly in favour of our Japanese friends, and that our 
exports remain at a relatively low level and limited to only a few products. We believe there could 
be more exports but we must work together towards simplifying access.  
4.391.   Mauritius believes a comprehensive economic partnership  agreement with Japan would be 
helpful to further consolidate our economic and trade relations.  
4.392.   On the regional point, Mauritius commends Japan for the numerous projects in Africa 
announced during TICAD  8 in Tunisia last year such as the launch of an investment fund for start -ups 
and the Green Growth Initiative for Africa. Furthermore, with the coming into force of the AfCFTA, 
we feel that a lot of opportunities will open up for Japan to further develop its trade ties with Africa. 
Mauritius looks forwa rd to working with the Japan in this regard.  
4.393.   Both Mauritius and Japan are committed to trade liberalization and we are supporters of a 
non-discriminatory, open and rule s-based WTO regime. We commend Japan for its contribution 
towards the implementation of trade-facilitating measures in the areas of customs and services, 
impediment of export restrictions, temporary removal or reduction of tariffs on essential medical 
goods, and improvement of transparency overall. We note that Japan is an important donor to 
various WTO technical assistance activities including the TFA. Given that Mauritius is yet to fully 
implement its Category  C measures, we look forward to working with Japan in fulfilling our TFA 
commitments.  
4.394.   We also seize this opportunity to commend Japan for its proactive role as a co -convener of 
the e-commerce joint statement initiative as well as for its contribution to the discussions on services 
domestic regulation and investment facilitation for development.  
4.395.   In concluding , I would like to recogni ze that our colleague, Ambassador Kazuyuki Yamazaki , 
is very able and active beyond WTO and during recent elections at the ITU.  
4.396.   We wish the delegation of Japan a very successful Review.  
JAMAICA  
4.397.   Jamaica joins other WTO Members in welcoming the delegation of Japa n, at this, its 
15th Trade Policy Review. We thank H.E. Mr Akihiro  Okochi , Deputy Assistant Minister, and his team 
for their comprehensive Report.  
4.398.   We convey thanks to the discussant, Ambassador João Aguiar  Machado , for expertly 
outlining key issues to be e laborated upon during today 's review. We also thank the Chair and the 
Secretariat for their respective contributions to this exercise.  
4.399.   Jamaica and Japan enjoy excellent relations of friendship, mutual respect, and collaboration. 
Commencing in 1964, this relationship has grown from strength to strength and bolstered through 
regular engagements, exchange of official visits, including at the highest level, as well as educational 
and cultural exchanges. In recent years, we have launched the Jamaica -Japan  Friendship 
Association, which represents a new dimension of the "J-J" partnership.  
4.400.   We are appreciative of the technical and economic cooperation between our two countries. 
Jamaica has been a recipient of official development assistance (ODA) in the form of grants, loans, WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 49 - 
 
and technical assistance to support our efforts to improve infrastructure, boost agricultural 
production, and hone local skills in forestry and fisheries as well as civil engineering and public 
health; the latter being particularly critic al to Government of Jamaica 's response to the COVID -19 
pandemic.  
4.401.   Jamaica, therefore, looks forward to commemorating 60  years of our bilateral partnership 
with Japan in 2024 as well as to celebrating the Japan -Caribbean Friendship Year, for which 2024 
was designated by the Government of Japan.  
4.402.   We have also collaborated on issues of mutual interest at the regional level through 
CARICOM, and in multilateral fora, including the WTO and UN agencies in Geneva.  
4.403.   We would like to commend, up front, the sterling le adership of Ambassador 
Kazuyuki  Yamazaki, Japan 's Permanent Representative, through whom Japan has remained a 
constructive partner on important issues on the agenda of the various Organizations in Geneva. We 
hope to continue this partnership as we work to advance the work of the WTO.  
4.404.   Japan is undoubtedly one of the world 's most influential trading economies. As such, we 
appreciate the Government 's efforts to maintain Japan 's macroeconomic stability and economic 
growth over the period under review. Confiden ce in the Government 's management of its domestic 
and international affairs has allowed it to maintain its position among the top sources of foreign 
investment, and the top 30 economies in the world.  
4.405.   We note positively that the Government has sought to ad dress compounding issues related 
to the COVID -19 pandemic, its demographic challenges and high debt -GDP ratio. Japan has 
acknowledged that ongoing work is necessary to maintain credibility to meet its external obligations 
and its fiscal responsibilities. A s such, we note with optimism the OECD 's projection that real GDP 
growth will remain moderate at 1.8% in 2023.  
4.406.   We appreciate further the attention being given to labour and other market reforms, which 
aim to increase Japan 's productivity, accelerate digita lization, investment, and research and 
development. While the Secretaria t's Report indicates that the COVID -19 pandemic adversely 
affected its merchandise exports and imports, Japan 's combined value of merchandise exports and 
imports showed robust recovery  in 2021; exceeding pre -pandemic levels. We also note that services 
exports and imports rebounded in 2021. This is commendable and the Government 's efforts to 
sustain this upward trajectory should be supported.  
4.407.   Like Jamaica, Japan understands the serious a nd adverse impact of climate change on our 
collective existence. We therefore welcome the Government 's announcement of plans to achieve net 
zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. We appreciate its elaboration of a revised long -term 
strategy under the Paris  Agreement to promote green innovations and finance, among other 
initiatives. Such strategies offer opportunities for increased discussion and future collaboration 
among all Members.  
4.408.   A net importer of fish and fish products, Japan has a well -developed fis heries sector, 
accounting for 3.94 % of the global capture production in 2019. Given concerns related to the 
sustainability of global fish stocks, we welcome the Government 's indication that the 
WTO Agreement  on Fisheries Subsidies is undergoing the ratific ation process. We applaud the strong 
demonstration of Japan 's commitment through its significant contribution to the WTO Fisheries 
Funding Mechanism in February. This is line with the Japan 's commitment to ensure sustainable use 
of marine living  resources.  
4.409.   Jamaica reiterates the importance of the WTO fisheries, which although partial, seeks to 
prohibit or limit certain forms of subsidies, namely those that contribute to illegal, unreported, and 
unregulated fishing, and addresses other related is sues, which are critical for developing countries.  
4.410.   Japan 's active participation in the multilateral trading system is further evidenced in the 
delegation 's use of the WTO Dispute Settlement System . We see this as a strong testament of its 
belief in the ab ility of the system to deliver on our shared objectives of building a fair, transparent , 
and rules -based multilateral trading system. Action to simplify its  customs procedures, limit its use WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 50 - 
 
of trade remedies, and improve its intellectual property rights r egime have also been undertaken by 
Japan.  
4.411.   However, Members have raised concerns about issues related to Government 's procurement 
procedures; screening requirements for FDI; revision and coverage of the Nippon Export and 
Investment Insurance Act; protection  of geographical indications to name a few. Jamaica looks 
forward to the exchange with the Japan in this regard.  
4.412.   Jamaica appreciated the opportunity to exchange on Japan 's trade policies. We extend best 
wishes to the delegation for a successful 15th Trade Policy Review.  
FIJI 
4.413.   Fiji welcomes the delegation of Japan to its 15th Trade Policy Review  led by 
Mr Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in 
charge of Economic Diplomacy . We thank the Government of Japan fo r it Report as well as the Report 
compiled and reported by the Secretariat. The efforts by the discussant H.E. Ambassador João Aguiar 
Machado of the European  Union provides additional insights into the Report which is appreciated.  
4.414.   Japan is no doubt a trade giant in its own right, an economy that has historically proven 
itself as highly developed and a member of the OECD. The Japanese products and technologies are 
pronounced and have gained significant proportion of market share globally given their pre cision 
and value for money.  
4.415.   Japan 's Report highlighted climate change and environmental sustainability and Japan 's 
accelerated steps to achieve net -zero emissions is welcomed. We also noted with appreciation 
Japan 's efforts to meet the food safety standard s in line with Codex requirements which resulted in 
the lifting of import restrictions on food products.  
4.416.   Fiji and Japan share a long -standing relation since the establishment of our diplomatic 
relations in 1970. We share common aspects of culture, coupled with geographical and environment 
constraints such as natural disasters and climate change.  
4.417.   Japanese economy over the years has made substantial contribution towards Fiji 's 
development aspiration similarly with a number of Pacific Island countries.  
4.418.   Trade between  Fiji and Japan continues to flourish and at present, it accounts for 
approximately 3.9% of Fiji 's total trade.  
4.419.   In relation to investment, a total of 10  Japanese projects were registered for the period 2015 
to 2019 in Fiji with a total worth of approximately F JD 0.6 million. Out of these projects, 50% have 
been in the services sector, we hope that Japan will invest more in Fiji in the near future in the areas 
of digital technologies and e -platforms.  
4.420.   Speaking of investment, Fiji provides an env ironment for investment in a number of sectors, 
such as light and green manufacturing, commercial agriculture, services – tourism, ICT, Business 
Process Outsourcing Sectors (BPOs), to name a few. Fiji provides some of the best incentives in 
these sectors, and we have some of the best advanced technology that could serve the region and 
the world well with 4G plus mobile network and fast internet connectivity.  
4.421.   Investing in Fiji, gives access to over 10  million consumers in the Pacific market and also 
another  9.9 million people in Australia and New  Zealand.  
4.422.   Tourism is a key revenue source for Fiji, between 2015 and 2019, Japan visitor arrivals to 
Fiji grew at an average of 24% whilst tourism earnings from Japan totalled  at 8.5%, making Japan 
a potential touris m market for Fiji 's future growth.  
4.423.   The re -introduction of direct flights between Narita and Nadi, played a key role in facilitating 
the direct access of Japanese tourists to Fiji to enjoy our white sandy beaches, warm tropical 
environment , and Fijian hosp itality. In relation to tourism, Fiji commend s the Japanese Government 
for withholding the release of wastewater from its Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant as this WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 51 - 
 
would have grave consequence s on Fiji 's tourism sector and the livelihood of our populat ion who are 
generally dependent on our oceans and seas for survival.  
4.424.   As for the World  Expo 2025, Fiji looks forward to being  part of Osaka for the event, the Expo 
is expected to present ideas toward s the achievement of Agenda 2030 and beyond.  
4.425.   The bilateral cooperation between our two countries helped enhanced key areas of priority 
in Fiji such as the Grass -Roots Human Security Projects (GGP) ; Pacific LEADS Programme 
(Scholarship) ; Japanese Government (MEXT) Scholarship for 2019 ; Rights, Empowerment and 
Cohesion (REACH) for Rural and Urban Fijians Project , and the Overseas Development Assistance 
(ODA) programme extended through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).  
4.426.   Other potential areas of  cooperation include MSMEs , agriculture , light manufacturing and 
processing plants, information and communications technologies , multinational corporations to meet 
our niche tourism market , and medical and pharmaceutical sector . 
4.427.   Fiji looks forward to enhan cing trade with Japan through the Indo -Pacific Economic 
Framework (IPEF) as an opportunity to elevate trade and economic relations with respect to the 
IPEF pillars.  
4.428.   In relation to market access, Fiji benefits from Japan 's Generali zed System of Preference s 
(GSP) on agricultural, fisheries and industrial products. Agricultural and fisheries products benefit 
from tariff reductions, including duty -free treatment, whereas  industrial products principal duty -free 
treatment. While GSP rates on some sensitive indust rial items are 20 %, 40%, 60% or 80 % of most 
favoured  nation  rates.  
4.429.   Fiji and Japan share no preferential market access offers, thus trade is carried out at the 
basic MFN rate, however, there are non -tariff barriers such as high quality and standards demand 
and other biosecurity issues. The supply chain between our two countries at times are affected by 
the distance and the volume of demand.  
4.430.   At the WTO in Geneva, the Japanese delegation headed by H.E. Ambassador 
Kazuyuki  Yamazaki  is highly active in various WTO engagements and we thank them for all their 
constructive engagements and efforts.  
4.431.   Looking ahead, Fiji will work closely with Japan through our respective government agencies 
and private sector partnerships to grow our bilateral and economic relationship further. We will also 
maintain the positive engagement we enjoy with the Japanese delegation here in Geneva and at 
other multilateral for a.  
4.432.   We wish the Japanese delegation every success for its Review.  
KAZAKHSTAN  
4.433.   Kazakhstan warmly welcomes the delegation of Japan led by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy 
Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy . 
We express our gratitude to the Government of Japan for  their informative Report and statement. 
We also thank Ambassador João Aguiar Machado for his insightful comments as a discuss ant and 
the WTO Secreta riat for its comprehensive Report.  
4.434.   Kazakhstan enjoys strong bilateral cooperation with Japan and attaches h igh importance to 
further deepening its economic and trade relations . Japan is a key and fifth  largest trading partner 
of my country in the Asia -Pacific region . In 2022 , our bilateral merchandise trade increased by mo re 
than half despite the uncertainties in the global trading environment and constituted USD 1.9 billion.  
4.435.   Aside from trade, Japan is one of the top 10 largest investors in Kazakhstan's economy, 
accounting for almost USD 8 billion of investments.  More than 60  enterprises with Japanese capital 
are successfully operating in Kazakhstan, including leading companies, such as INPEX , Sumitomo, 
and Marubeni Corporations.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 52 - 
 
4.436.   Taking this opportunity, we would also like to express high gratitude to the Government of 
Japan for th e humanitarian aid and assistance provided to my country in the fight against COVID -19 
pandemic.  
4.437.   We commend Japan for its  sound and resilient economic performance despite the challenges 
in the global economy and for implementing an ambitious trade -related  reform agenda over the 
period under review . Particularly , we note a strong f ocus on  the 2021 strategy for promoting foreign 
direct investment aimed at creating a new digital green market, building an innovation ecosystem , 
and accelerating the development of business environment in response to  global environmental 
challenges.  
4.438.   Kazakhstan also welcomes the ongoing comprehensive reforms initiated by Japan under the 
Economic Security Promotion Act adopted in May  2022, with a view  of ensuring a stable supply of 
key products and essential infrastructure services, as well as enhancing the development of 
inventions and production of advanced technologies . 
4.439.   We believe that the efforts  of the Government of Japan in the implementation of structural 
economic reforms resulted in maintaining its position as a world top three large economies and 
sixth most competitive economy according to the World Economic Forum  Report.  
4.440.   We recognize Japan's commitment and engagement in the rules -based multilateral trading 
system  and constructive work in the WTO . Particularly , we commend Japan's contributions  to the 
discussions on agriculture, fisheries subsidies, WTO's response to the pandemic , and for its role as 
co-convener of the Joint Statement Initiativ e on E-Commerce and the active participation in the 
Services  Domestic Regulation, and Investment Facilitation for Development initiatives.  
4.441.   We would like to support other Members and eco statements that greater liberalization of 
agriculture  would contribute to competitiveness an d that Japanese consumers would be the main 
beneficiaries of these policy reforms . 
4.442.   Kazakhstan thanks Japan for the written replies to our questions addressing exp orts 
promotion  and financial aid issues.  
4.443.   In conclusion, we would like to congratulate the delegation of Japan and the W TO Secretariat 
for the hard work and efforts that went to preparing for this T rade Policy Review .  
4.444.   We would also like to express our  appreciation for to the active role here at the WTO  to 
Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki  and his team in Geneva . As representative of the MC12 Chair 
country, I also would like to express  our gratitude to the Government of Japan for making the 
successful outcomes of the MC12 re alistic . 
4.445.   We wish the delegation of Japan every success for the 15th Trade P olicy Review.  
URUGUAY  
4.446.   Uruguay would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of Japan, headed by 
Mr Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister at the Economic Affairs Bureau a nd Ambassador in 
charge of Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the occasion of the fifteenth 
Trade Policy Review, and to thank him for his presentation. We would also like to thank the 
Secretariat for its comprehensive report and Amba ssador João  Aguiar  Machado for his insightful 
interpretation of the review.  
4.447.   At the bilateral level, our countries are at one of their highest points following the official 
visit from the President of Uruguay, Luis  Lacalle  Pou, in October  2022, when he achi eved various 
objectives, including the opening of the Japanese market to Uruguayan beef tongue.  
4.448.   With regard to bilateral trade, exports from Uruguay grew by 20% in 2022, while imports 
have remained stable. Since 2019, the star product has continued to be h igh-quality beef.  
4.449.   The year 2022 saw record levels of Uruguayan exports to Japan, with the prospect of an 
upward trend in the coming years thanks to the sanitary authorizations obtained in 2018 and 2019. WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 53 - 
 
We understand that there is complementarity between o ur countries' production, especially given 
Uruguay's role in providing a secure and consistent supply of safe food.  
4.450.   Major investments include the acquisition by the conglomerate NH  Foods of one of the 
country's main meat processing plants, and the operatio ns of Takiron in light industry and of Yazaki 
in the automobile parts sector.  
4.451.   Furthermore, we believe that Uruguay has an important part to play in Japan's Green Growth 
Strategy.  
4.452.   At the regional level, Uruguay is a strong advocate for reaching an agreement  between 
MERCOSUR and Japan.  
4.453.   At the multilateral level, we both agree that the WTO plays a key role in the rules -based 
multilateral trading system. This provides us with the certainty needed to ensure that the 
agreements of this Organization remain relevan t and up to the task of meeting global challenges.  
4.454.   We have worked together on the implementation of the commitments made at the 
Twelfth  Ministerial Conference (the "Geneva Package"), on the implementation of the agreement to 
prevent subsidies for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and on WTO reform, among other 
matters.  
4.455.   We appreciate Japan's efforts in implementing the package of recommendations and 
statements of the Informal Working Group on MSMEs, aimed at increasing the participation of small 
and medium -sized enterprises in international trade. We welcome the development of programmes 
to support these companies in areas such as public procurement, the use of intellectual property 
tools, the development of e -commerce and issues related to human r ights. We encourage Japan to 
pursue its efforts to fully implement the set of recommendations. We are counting on its support to 
continue achieving results in the Informal Working Group on MSMEs, bringing its experiences and 
topics of interest to bear in v iew of the Thirteenth Ministerial Conference.  
4.456.   The WTO is a multilateral organization and MSMEs are a global issue. We need the voice and 
input of Members within the Informal Working Group on this issue in order to enhance the 
development of a critical mass  and good practices.  
4.457.   We offer our best wishes for a successful Trade Policy Review.  
TUNISI A 
4.458.   My delegation is pleased to participate in the 15th Trade Policy Review of Japan and welcomes 
the Japanese delegation, led by H.E.  Mr Akihiro  Okochi, whom we thank for the comprehensive 
briefing on his country's economic situation and trade policy.  
4.459.   I also wish to thank H.E.  Mr João Aguiar  Machado for the pertinent remarks he made in his 
presentation, and to congratulate the Secretariat on the thorough report it  has submitted to us for 
this review.  
4.460.   During the review period, which was greatly affected by the pandemic, Japan maintained its 
position as a global economic power and a major player in the multilateral trading system.  
4.461.   The reports from the Secretariat and  Japan, which are under review, provide a 
comprehensive and detailed picture of a strong, stable and competitive economy that has proved 
resilient to crises. In this respect, we note, in particular, an average inflation rate that did not exceed 
1% during t he period under review and was well under control in 2022, despite the rise in 
international energy prices and the depreciation of the yen.  
4.462.   Flexible and bold fiscal and monetary policies combined with structural reforms have enabled 
Japan to address the de mographic challenges posed by its ageing population, to increase labour 
supply and productivity, and to maintain moderate real GDP growth rates in most years.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 54 - 
 
4.463.   The diversity of Japan's high value -added production, public and private investment in 
research a nd the promotion of digitalization have also enabled Japan to post a balance of payments 
surplus during the period under review and to reaffirm confidence in the solvency of its economy, 
despite a high ratio of public debt to GDP compared to other develope d countries.  
4.464.   As a founding Member of the WTO, Japan continues to advocate a rules -based, open, liberal 
and fair multilateral trading system that guarantees stable and transparent transactions. In this 
respect, we welcome the constructive role it played rec ently at MC12, particularly in the negotiations 
on fisheries subsidies and the TRIPS waiver, leading to successful outcomes in these two areas. We 
would expect Japan to continue to act constructively in order to achieve, by the end of MC13, 
effective globa l solutions with regard to fisheries sustainability and equitable access to therapeutics 
and diagnostics, and to engage in efforts to combat future pandemics.  
4.465.   Japan's commitment to the multilateral trading system is also evident in its active pursuit of 
economic partnership agreements in various regions and the diversification of its aid -for-trade and 
development mechanisms.  
4.466.   In this context, we welcome the outcome of the eighth  Tokyo International Conference on 
African Development (TICAD  8), held in Tunis o n 27 and 28  August  2022, which reaffirmed the 
commitment of the Japanese Government to establishing fruitful partnerships with African countries 
in order to grow together and help to build a strong African economy. In this regard, Japan has 
undertaken  to: 
• Invest USD  30 billion over the next three years through its public and private sectors to 
support development in Africa.  
• allocate USD  4 billion to green energy development.  
• provide up to USD  5 billion in loans for infrastructure investments and USD  300 million in 
new loans to boost agricultural production and combat food insecurity.  
• train some 300,000  African professionals over the next three years in the fields of industry, 
health, education and agriculture.  
4.467.   At the bilateral level, the long -standin g Tunisian -Japanese political and trade relations, 
established in June  1956, the year of Tunisia's independence, continue to develop, particularly 
through Joint Committee meetings, the 10th of which was held in Tokyo in February  2019, or through 
technical cooperation and infrastructure development agreements and memorandums of 
understanding between specialized agencies.  
4.468.   Technical and financial cooperation with Japan dates back to 1975 and the opening of a JICA 
representative office. We commend the role of t his Agency and the considerable support it provides 
for the implementation of numerous cooperation projects, with a particular focus on sustainable 
development, the fight against climate change and improving the quality of life of Tunisians.  
4.469.   This support i ncludes the loans granted for the construction of the seawater desalination 
plant in Sfax, the Radès power plant and the "Amen Social" programme to mitigate the negative 
impact of COVID -19 on vulnerable people.  
4.470.   We also highlight the JPY  1.2 billion grant a greement signed in March  2022 by the Tunisian 
Government and JICA concerning the project for the construction of fishery surveillance vessels, 
which are to be delivered in October  2023.  
4.471.   The project will enhance the marine fisheries monitoring, control and surveillance system in 
Tunisia and improve the management of fisheries resources, thereby contributing to the effective 
implementation of the June  2022 Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.  
4.472.   Nevertheless, it is disappointing that the volume of trade between Tun isia and Japan remains 
rather modest. Tunisian exports to the Japanese market, limited to seafood (tuna) and textiles, did 
not exceed USD  33 million in 2022, resulting in an increased deficit in our trade balance with Japan, 
with a low coverage ratio of 17 %. WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 55 - 
 
4.473.   In this respect, we encourage the Japanese authorities to give favourable consideration to 
the request of the Tunisian Ministry of Trade and Export Development to extend the benefits of its 
Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) to a specific list of T unisian products, including seafood 
(especially bluefin tuna and lobster), pasta, clothing and footwear, and to study the Ministry's 
proposal for a preferential trade agreement with Japan based on reciprocal customs concessions on 
two lists of specific pro ducts.  
4.474.   It should be emphasized that our two countries are determined to further strengthen their 
traditional cooperation in all fields, including agriculture and new technologies, and to capitalize on 
political and economic achievements and existing instit utional frameworks.  
4.475.   In closing, I would like to commend Ambassador Yamazaki and his team in Geneva for their 
active engagement in the work of the WTO and wish the Japanese delegation a successful Trade 
Policy Review.  
PARAGUAY  
4.476.   The Republic of Paraguay would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of Japan, 
headed by the Deputy Assistant Minister at the Economic Affairs Bureau and the Ambassador in 
charge of Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr  Akihiro  Okochi. We wou ld also 
like to thank you, Chair, for conducting this review, and the discussant and the Secretariat for the 
comprehensive Report.  
4.477.   Paraguay and Japan share historical ties of friendship and recently celebrated 
the 100th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral relations. In addition, during the period under 
review, Japan was Paraguay's eleventh biggest trading partner.  
4.478.   As noted in the Secretariat's Report, Japan's economy is characterized by high levels of 
development and diversification. This is refle cted in the bilateral trade between Paraguay and Japan, 
in which not only is there a deficit for Paraguay but also Paraguay's exports are highly concentrated. 
A single agricultural product represents around 95% of Paraguay's exports to Japan, while the 
10 main exports from Japan to Paraguay account for 48.6% of the total (NGMA).  
4.479.   It is this high dependence on agricultural commodities in general that guides Paraguay's 
actions in this Organization and in our bilateral trade relations, as our economy and the li velihoods 
of a significant portion of our population rely heavily  on them.  
4.480.   For example, much of the sesame grown in Paraguay is intended for Japan. Apart from being 
of economic interest, this product has development and social relevance for Paraguay owing to its 
widespread use by small producers and in the substitution of illicit crops.  
4.481.   There is significant economic complementarity between Japan, as a net importer of food, 
and Paraguay. To benefit from this, we need to advance in all areas of agricultural n egotiations. A 
less distorted market and greater market access opportunities, and not only tighter disciplines on 
export restrictions, will make it possible to provide Japan with increased food security. We hope to 
be able to continue to work together on n egotiations to reach a satisfactory and balanced outcome 
for both countries and all Members.  
4.482.   We also share work with Japan in various other bodies and joint initiatives at the WTO; we 
would like to express our particular thanks for Japan's leadership as co -convenor of the discussions 
on electronic commerce. We hope to continue to make progress in the discussions this year and that 
the needs of developing countries will be taken into account.  
4.483.   Another important issue that we are carefully monitoring is that o f sanitary and phytosanitary 
measures. Although the legal framework and the processes in Japan are extensive and often 
complex, we have previously had good experiences of resolving capacity challenges with Japan with 
the instruments and cooperation afforde d to developing countries in the SPS  Agreement . 
4.484.   I would therefore like to take this opportunity to request that Japan accelerate the 
administrative risk analysis processes relating to the opening of the Japanese market to Paraguayan 
bovine meat, which have  been under way for several years.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 56 - 
 
4.485.   On behalf of my country, I reiterate my congratulations to those responsible for conducting 
this review and to the delegates of the Permanent Mission of Japan.  
CAMBODI A 
4.486.   At the outset, Cambodia associates itself with the statement of ASEAN  delivered by 
Indonesia . My delegation is pleased to participate in the 15th Trade Policy Re view of Japan.  
4.487.   I would like to warmly welcome the delegation of Japan led by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy 
Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy  
of Japan. Our special thanks also go to the discuss ant, H.E. Mr João Aguiar  Machado of the 
European  Union , for his insightful remarks and for ou tlining some interesting questions . We 
appreciate the  Report prepared by the  Secretariat and the Government of Japan which outline recent 
developments in Japan, trade policies and practices . 
4.488.   Cambodia and Japan enjoy  long-standing and friendly relations, no t only on trade but also 
in other areas as well, including infrastructure, education, and social development, just to name a 
few. Cambodia wishes to congratulate Japan for maintaining its position as the third largest economy 
in the world. We also commend Japan for their remarkable economic achievements, including 
economic resilience, low inflation rates, and the ability to maintain sound fiscal and liberal trade 
policy despite the COVID -19 pandemic and global challenges such as food , energy, and cost of li ving 
crises.  
4.489.   In terms of economic tie s, Japan is an important trade and investment partner for Cambodia. 
Bilaterally, Cambodia and Japan have enjoyed a strong and highly complementary economic 
relationship through bilateral and regional initiatives, especi ally through the ASEAN  Plus mechanism , 
such as ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP), and the new Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP). We believe that RCEP will provide a 
significant boost to trade and investment b etween Cambodia and Japan , and with the other 
13 participating countries . 
4.490.   In terms of bilateral trade, according to Cambodia's General Department of Customs and 
Excise, bilateral merchandise trade between Cambodia and Japan  totalled USD 1.948  billion in 2022, 
rising by 12.33% from a year earlier ; but in the total trade Cambodia's expo rts account ed for a 
60.22% share of the bilateral trade, although this is quite significant, it nonetheless represents a 
negative growth as export from Cambodia to  Japan is actually down  by 2.85% on a yearly basis, if 
compared to export in 2021 . Regardless, Japan remains the fourth largest b uyer of Cambodia 's 
merchandise in 202 2 accounting for 5.22% of the global total trade of USD  22.483  billion . 
4.491.   As for investments , in accordance with the national banks of Cambodia statistics, as of 
December  2021, Japan is the fifth biggest investor in Cambodia, accounted for about USD  2.4 billion  
after China, Republic of Korea, Singapore, and Viet Nam. Japanese investors in Cambodi a, largely 
operated in industry ; banking ; hotels and tourism ; construction and r eal state; and especially 
supermarkets and retail , restaurants, and services.  
4.492.   Let me take th is occasion to acknowledge the critical role and contribution of Japan in the 
multilateral trading system that is open, transparent, inclusive , and non -discriminatory . We also 
recognize the effort of Japan in contributing to the ongoing discussions on the different issues at the 
WTO with the aim to reinforce the relevance of the multilateral trading syste m. 
4.493.   On ASEAN -Japan cooperation, Japan remains an important partner of ASEAN in all areas 
within the ASEAN -led cooperation mechanism. We also appreciate the pr eferential schemes provided 
by Japan to the LDC for both goods and services.  
4.494.   Finally,  we commit to working closely with Japan especially with the delegation of Japan in 
Geneva to strengthen our good cooperation for economic prosperity and sustainable deve lopment, 
we wish Japan a successful 15Th Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 57 - 
 
KYRGYZ  REPUBLIC  
4.495.   Kyrgyz  Republic warmly welcomes the delegation of Japan led by H.E. Mr Akihiro  Okochi, 
Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Econom ic 
Diplomacy , Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  
4.496.   We would like to thank the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Japan for preparing such 
comprehensive and detailed reports on the 15th Review of trade policies and practices of Japan. We 
would also like to thank the discussant, H.E.  Mr João Aguiar  Machado (European  Union) for his 
insightful comments.  
4.497.   Since the beginning of its membership in WTO Japan has demonstrated the highest 
dedicatio n to WTO rules and as seen in the Report has convincingly shown its commitment to trade 
liberalization under the multilateral trading system centred  on the WTO continuously.  
4.498.   Japan is an active participant in all the initiatives within the WTO, including e-commerce, 
investment facilitation for development, MSMEs, and services domestic regulation. Japan also is a 
party to the WTO plurilateral agreements, such as Agreement on Government Procurement and 
Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
4.499.   Last year we celebrated th e 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations 
between the Kyrgyz  Republic and Japan. During this time, we were able to establish friendly ties in 
political, economic, cultural, and humanitarian cooperation.  
4.500.   We would like to express our a ppreciation for all the support and assistance provided for the 
development of the Kyrgyz  Republic and overall, the Central  Asian countries.  
4.501.   For many years, several projects aimed at the sustainable development of rural areas have 
been implemented in the Kyrgyz  Republic  through the Japan International Cooperation Agency. One 
of the successful ones is "One Village -One Product ".  
4.502.   Also, in the past 30  years, thousands of our specialists have been trained in JICA training 
centres , in various Japanese universiti es. Since 2007, government officials of the Kyrgyz  Republic 
have passed educational program mes and improved their qualifications in Japanese universities. 
Today, the graduates of JICA program mes are already contributing to the development of our 
country th rough public service, occupying important positions in the country.  
4.503.   Meanwhile, we recognize that the level of bilateral trade does not correspond to the existing 
potential.  
4.504.   The trade turnover between the Kyrgyz  Republic and Japan in January -November  2022 
amounted to USD 17.23  million. In comparison, in the same period of 2021, the trade turnover 
amounted to USD 79.29  million.  
4.505.   The Kyrgyz  Republic export s to Japan mainly are honey, oilseeds, parts and accessories for 
appliances and machines, finished textiles , and jet fuel.  
4.506.   The goods of imports from Japan are machinery, equipment for industry, gears and engines, 
rubber products (tires), products made of fe rrous metals, spare part for vehicles, electronical 
machines and apparatus, medicines , etc. 
4.507.   The Kyrgyz  Republic considers these numbers to be insufficient and our Government is 
interested in filling this gap. We should increase the number of business event s which would lay 
forward the progress in economic relations.  
4.508.   Given the fact that Japan is one of the leading economies in the world, we would be interested 
in attracting advanced technologies and innovations from Japan for the development of the national 
economy. From our side, we could increase the export of agricultural products, and services 
(tourism: historical and recreational).  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 58 - 
 
4.509.   In order to foster trade relations between our countries, our countries need to frequently 
organize business bridgi ng events to boost B2B links between our business circles in the format of 
investment for a and send special trade missions to each other to help traders meet with their 
potential partners.  
4.510.   For example, the Government of Japan in cooperation with the Europe an Bank of 
Reconstruction and Development organi zed the Central Asian Investment Forum in Tokyo in 
December  2022.  
4.511.   The Kyrgyz  Republic also plans to take part in the international exhibition "EXPO -2025", 
which will be held in 2025 in Osaka (Japan).  
4.512.   Taking this opportunity, the Kyrgyz  Republic wishes a very successful 15th Trade Policy 
Review to the delegation of Japan.  
EL SALVADOR  
4.513.   On behalf of the Government of El Salvador, I wish to join previous speakers in extending 
warm greetings to the distinguished de legation of Japan, headed by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy 
Assistant Minister at the Economic Affairs Bureau  and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy 
at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the officials visiting us from the capital and their outstanding team 
in Geneva on the occasion of the 15th Trade Policy Review.  
4.514.   Allow us to thank both the Government of Japan and the WTO Secretariat for preparing and 
submitting the detailed reports for this review, which will surely be of great use and high light the 
economic and trade developments in Japan during the review period, especially since the pandemic.  
4.515.   We also thank Ambassador João  Aguiar  Machado of the European  Union for his important 
comments and reflections, which will contribute to enriching ou r discussions.  
4.516.   Relations between Japan and El  Salvador have continued to strengthen over time, despite 
the geographical distance between the countries. Over the years, Japan has gained prominence as 
a destination for Salvadoran exports such as coffee and t extiles. Japan's main exports to El  Salvador 
are vehicles and vehicle parts.  
4.517.   Furthermore, Japan remains among the countries providing the most cooperation and Aid 
for Trade to El  Salvador, most notably in the form of technical assistance and cooperation pr ojects 
on port and airport infrastructure and the country's road network.  
4.518.   Japan maintains its position as one of the world's largest and most competitive economies, 
occupying third place.  
4.519.   Even in an unfavourable context and in the middle of various crises that affect all WTO 
Member States, Japan stands out for its high levels of growth and economic and social development, 
which enable it to have one of the world's highest standards of living.  
4.520.   Of particular note are the reforms implemented to address the dem ographic challenges 
facing Japan and aimed at increasing labour supply, productivity and wages.  
4.521.   Other, structural reforms are aimed at increasing Japan's productivity, notably by 
accelerating digitalization, expanding investment and increasing R&D expendit ure. 
4.522.   Turning to the multilateral framework, El  Salvador shares Japan's vision of continuing to 
support and strengthen the multilateral trading system and promoting a free, fair, predictable and 
stable environment for trade and investments.  
4.523.   Of particular no te is Japan's active and constructive participation in the regular work, 
negotiating agenda, cutting -edge issues and reform of the Organization.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 59 - 
 
4.524.   Japan continues to demonstrate leadership in advancing the Joint Statement Initiative on 
Electronic Commerce - to which El Salvador is a party - together with co -conveners Australia and 
Singapore.  
4.525.   Similarly, Japan has supported discussions of the Informal Working Group on Trade and 
Gender . 
4.526.   In conclusion, I wish the Japanese delegation every success in the country's  15th Trade Policy 
Review.  
KENYA  
4.527.   I take this opportunity to warmly welcome the delegation of Japan led by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, 
the Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic 
Diplomacy at the Ministry of Fore ign Affairs, to Geneva for the 15th Trade Policy Review .  
4.528.   I also wish to thank today 's discussant H.E.  Mr João Aguiar  Machado of the European  Union, 
for setting the scene for this Trade Policy Review . Allow me to further acknowledge the Secretariat 's 
dedicated efforts toward s preparing a comprehensive Report.  
4.529.   Kenya acknowledges Japan 's active and constructive engagement at the WTO and recognizes 
that this Trade Policy Review comes at a time when the world is still recovering from the deva stating 
effects of the COVID -19 pandemic. Kenya applauds Japan for its valiant efforts to counter the 
resultant downturn.  
4.530.   We note that the country 's economy rebounded in 2021, with an estimated growth of 2.6% 
according to the IMF, on the back of strong ex ports and public consumption and investment. The 
IMF forecast a GDP increase of 3.2% in 2022, underpinned by the entry into force of the Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Trade Agreement . 
4.531.   In 2021, Japan 's exports were valued at USD  757.5  billion,  accounting for 3.5% of the 
world 's exports during the year and positioning Japan as the fourth largest exporter in the year. The 
country was the second largest exporter of motor cars and other motor vehicles principally designed 
for the transport of perso ns, with exports being valued at USD  85.6 billion. Japan 's export 
concentration was 0.1, indicating that Japan has diversified its export destination market.  
4.532.   On the other hand, Japan 's imports in the year were valued at USD  772.7  billion, which made 
up 3.5% of the world imports in the year, ranking the country as the fourth largest global importer 
in 2021. Japan 's chief import product in 2021 was petroleum oils and oils obtained from bituminous 
minerals (crude). The country importe d approximately USD  63.1 billion worth of the product.  
4.533.   Bilaterally, Kenya enjoys long -standing cordial political and trade relations with Japan. 
In 2021, Kenya 's exports reached an all -time high of USD  61.2 million, with an average annual 
increase of 11% between 2017 and 2020. There was a single drop in export performance over the 
last decade in 2020, recovering immediately in 2021. Kenya 's principal export product to Japan 
in 2021 was titanium ores and concentrates, accounting for 29.6% of Kenya 's exports to the country. 
Other key export products include coffee at 15.3%, waste and scrap of copper at 15.2%, and cut 
flowers at 14.3%. The top five export products constituted 88.1% of Kenya 's total exports to Japan, 
indicating a moderately high concentrati on of the export basket.  
4.534.   Kenya 's imports from Japan were valued at USD  892.3  million in 2021, an increase by 
USD 68.98  million, from USD 823.3 million  in 2020. Kenya 's chief import from Japan in 2021 was 
motor cars and other motor vehicles at USD  358.8  million. 
4.535.   Kenya commends Japan 's front -line role in trade and development through initiatives such 
as Aid for Trade and Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD). Notably, the 
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has had long -term impactful partnerships with 
Kenya 's public and private sectors to provide capacity -building and technical assistance. The scope 
of the partnership has been diverse, covering economic infrastructure development ; agriculture and 
rural development ; human reso urce development ; health support ; water and sanitation ; as well as 
environmental management.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 60 - 
 
4.536.   Kenya looks forward to a more fruitful trade relationship with Japan and wishes the 
delegation a successful Trade Policy Review . 
HONDURAS  
4.537.   On behalf of the State of Honduras, allow me to begin by extending a very warm welcome 
to the entire delegation of Jap an, led by the head of delegation, H.E.  Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy 
Assistant Minister at the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy 
at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. We welcome our colleagues and friends from the Japa nese 
Mission in Geneva and thank them for their report and opening statement.  
4.538.   We extend our thanks to you, Chair, for your leadership, to the Secretariat, for the quality 
of its report, and to the discussant, Ambassador João  Aguiar  Machado, for his valuabl e comments.  
4.539.   Japan is the world's third largest economy in GDP terms and is a trade -based and diversified 
economy.  
4.540.   Japan ranked sixth in the 2019 Global Competitiveness Report of the World Economic Forum, 
and its best results were achieved in digital infras tructure, health and physical infrastructure.  
4.541.   According to the OECD, Japan's financial sector withstood the pandemic shock relatively well; 
the share of non -performing loans in Japan's economy is relatively low, and the capital adequacy of 
the major financ ial institutions appears in line with other major economies.  
4.542.   We note with interest that, according to WIPO reports, in 2020, Japan had the shortest 
pendency times among major IP offices, and the fourth fastest in the world.  
4.543.   From the reports assessed, we no te that the amended Anti -Monopoly Act  introduced a new 
leniency system that allows the competent authority to reduce the amount of surcharges according 
to the degree of enterprises' cooperation during an investigation and abolishes the limitation on the 
number of enterprises that can benefit from the leniency programme in a case, which is why 
guidelines were adopted on the leniency system that are applicable to cases of cooperation during 
an investigation; these are issues that the relevant Honduran authori ties are interested in exploring.  
4.544.   We note the efforts made by Japan to incorporate the 2050 Carbon Neutrality Declaration 
and the 2030 Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Target, and are paying close attention to the 
commitment to update the status of climat e change and global warming issues and revise the 
government action plan.  
4.545.   At the same time, we are aware that Japan maintains a government procurement policy to 
promote environmental protection and that, during the review period, two revisions of the Basic  
Policy on Promoting Green Procurement and the implementation rules concerning the Green 
Procurement Act were notified.  
4.546.   Japan has been putting into practice a holistic approach in its own Aid for Trade efforts and 
has provided  comprehensive assistance, inc luding in the areas of productive capacity -building and 
trade policy and regulations.  
4.547.   Our Japanese partners have provided our country with support to address problems relating 
to poverty, public security and the root causes of migration, along with emergen cy materials for 
recovery following the COVID -19 pandemic and assistance for the construction of productive 
infrastructure, among other things.  
4.548.   The Government of Japan, through the Centre for International Cooperation and the "Juntos 
2023" ("Together 2023" ) cultural exchange programme with Central  America and the Caribbean, 
reaffirmed its commitment to reducing air pollution by making greater use of renewable energies 
and raising awareness of good practices in the production of renewable energy.  
4.549.   In the fiel d of space, a microsatellite from the Central  American Integration System, in which 
Honduras participates, is set to be released from the Japanese Experiment Module "Kibo" on the 
International Space Station.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 61 - 
 
4.550.   Our bilateral trade balance with Japan is in def icit; in 2021, we imported around 
USD 211 million in vehicles, iron and mechanical appliances and exported USD  91 million in coffee, 
fish, and fruit.  
4.551.   This year, we are celebrating the 88th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic 
relations, which hav e been strengthened over time and will hopefully continue to become stronger 
in different areas.  
4.552.   Our countries will continue their efforts to ensure the advancement of the WTO's multilateral 
trading system, which is based on the principles of openness, tra nsparency, non -discrimination, and 
inclusion.  
4.553.   Lastly, Honduras is pleased to participate in this exercise in transparency and appreciates 
the opportunity to exchange views on  and examine the trade policies and practices of Japan. We 
wish the country every success in the presentation of its Trade Policy Review.  
KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN  
4.554.   The Kingdom of Bahrain is delighted to participate in the 15th Trade Policy Review of Japan, 
and would like to warmly welcome H.E.  Mr Akihiro  Okochi , Deputy Assistant Minister, Economic 
Affairs Bureau, and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 
as well as H.E   Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki, Permanent Representative of Japan to the WTO and 
wish them and their dele gation a very successful Review.  
4.555.   We would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat for their efforts in preparing the detailed 
report and the discussant H.E.  Mr João Aguiar  Machado , Ambassador and Permanent Representative 
of the European  Union to the WTO hi s insightful remarks and active discussion.  
4.556.   Japan has always been an important partner of the Kingdom of Bahrain, sharing a strong 
economic relationship.  
4.557.   The value of our total non -oil bilateral trade with Japan continues to reach high levels, 
amounting to  more than USD 669 million last year.  
4.558.   Japan is also a major destination for Bahraini aluminium, making up a large share of the 
USD 155 million  exports to Japan last year, along with USD 511 million  of Japanese imports to the 
Kingdom of Bahrain the same year, ranking eighth in our overall imports.  
4.559.   We are therefore encouraged by the findings of the Report, that Japan's economy is 
characterized by high development, diversification, and income levels a s well as by strong market 
orientation.  
4.560.   In closing, we would like to thank the discussant for their remarks and active discussion and 
the WTO Secretariat for their efforts in preparing the detailed Report and we would like to wish Japan 
every success in i ts Trade Policy Review.  
PAKISTAN  
4.561.   We wish to warmly welcome the Japanese delegation led by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi Deputy 
Assistant Minister, Economic Affairs Bureau, Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy, Ministry 
of Foreign Affairs at this 15 Trade Policy Review of Japan.  
4.562.   We wish to convey our thanks to the discussant H.E.  Mr João Aguiar Machado for providing 
insightful comments to lead the discussions at this TPR. Our thanks to the Secretariat for its work 
on this Review.  Pakistan appreciates the opportunity to participate at this Trade Policy Review . 
4.563.   During the period under review, Japan 's economy was not spar red by the pandemic, but the 
Government took bold actions to get the economy back quickly to its pre -pandemic growth level.  
4.564.   Japan 's consistent policies aiming for sustainable growth in the backdrop of various 
challenges is commendable. Japan is the third l argest economy in the world and a highly developed WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 62 - 
 
country, these speak volume of the commitment of the Government to pursue effective growth 
policy.  
4.565.   Japan is one of Pakistan 's important trading partners in the region. While trade surpluses 
are in favour  of Japan, the trade potential between the two countries remains underexploited. The 
current memorandum of understanding to deepen trade relations would need to further develop to 
take advantage of the trade opportunities. To also support and take advantage of the trade existing 
opportunities, Pakistan would very much welcome any trade facilitation such as rising the threshold 
to assess the import duties which currently stands at USD  90. 
4.566.   At the same time , we are also recipient of ODI from Japan. It might be f ruitful and deepen 
Pakistan -Japan trade ties if more of this funding is used to develop Pakistan 's export capacity and 
products to high end markets like Japan.  
4.567.   Japan is a strong supporter of the multilateral trade system and a very active Member at 
every l evel led by H .E. Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki  and his team at the Geneva Mission.  
4.568.   We wish to commend Japan 's contribution to support developing countries ' integration into 
the multilateral trading system. The various assistances and especially through aid for trade are 
highly appreciated.  We wish Japan a successful T rade Policy Review . 
GEORGIA  
4.569.   At the outset let me join the previous speakers in warmly welcom ing the delegation of Japan 
in Geneva to this 15th Trade Policy Review  headed  by H.E. Ambassador Akihiro  Okochi . We would 
like to thank both , the Government of Japan and the WTO Secretariat , for their comprehensive 
reports, we would also like to thank the  discuss ant is H.E. Ambassador João  Aguiar  Machado for his 
very insightful remarks and observations . 
4.570.   Georgia acknowledges the important leadership role of Japan, as one of the largest 
economies , placed in the developing and further strengthening of a rules -based multilateral trading 
system . We applaud Japan for its unwavering support and commitment to the core values and 
principles underpinning the multilateral trading system and for  its active and constructive 
engagement in ongoing multilateral and plurilat eral negotiations under the auspices of the WTO.  
4.571.   In this respect , we would like to particularly underline Japan's active and constructive 
participation in the joint statement initiative on e -commerce , in the investment  facilitation for 
development, the establishment of a W TO informal working group s for MSMEs and services domestic 
regulation .  
4.572.   Japan's  economic performance was hardly hit by the global COVID -19 pandemic, resulting 
in economic slowdown,  as well as subsequen t supply chains disruption, culminating  in a negative 
growth rate  of nearly  5% in 2020.  However, as the Secretariat's Report noted, Japan's 
post-pandemic  economic recovery has resulted in a significant growth of both merc handise exports 
and imports and exc eeded pre -pandemic l evels. In 2021, the combined value of merchandise  exports 
and import exceeded to equivalent of  30% of GDP for the first time since 2014.  
4.573.   We are delighted to stress that  since the establishment of the diplomatic relations between 
Georgia  and Japan  in 1992, close cooperation in bilateral and multilateral formats have been 
dynamically developing in ma ny important areas . With th e support from the Government of Japan, 
multiple technical assistance program mes have been implemented under the ae gis of the Japan 
International Cooperation Agency  (JICA) developing the vital sectors of the Georgian economy . I 
would like to use this opportunity to extend our most sincere gratitude and appreciation for the 
Government of Japan for its continued support . 
4.574.   As a highly -developed economy and major global trade r and investor, Japan represents  an 
important economic and strategic partner for Georgia, despite the geographical distance, our two 
countries maintain close and mutually beneficial bilateral  relations including the constructive trade 
and economic cooperation.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 63 - 
 
4.575.   Trade indicators continue to demonstrate positive dynamic of our bilateral trade cooperation . 
In 2022, the volume of bilateral trade  between Georgia and Japan has grown by 57% in comparison  
to 2021 as it constituted USD 322 million, for the last years we have been witnessing a positive 
trend i n bilateral trade between our two nations and we look forward to its further strengthening 
and intensification .  
4.576.   Furthermore, Japan remains one of the major global sources of foreign investors . 
Cooperation between Georgia and Japan in  the field of investments has been act ively developing for 
the last years, resulting in a signing of bilateral agreements between the two countries for the 
liberalization, p romotion , and protection of investments on 2 9 January  2021. We are confident that 
this agreement coupled with a favourable  business -friendly climate will further stimulat e the growth 
of Japanese direct investments in my country.  
4.577.   In conclusion, we would lik e to wish the delegation of Japan successful and productive Trade 
Policy Review.  
PERU 
4.578.   Peru would like to warmly welcome H.E.  Mr Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister at the 
Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs, together with his honourable delegation. Peru echoes the thanks expressed by other 
delegations for the Report on the macroeconomic performance and trade policy regime of Japan for 
its fifteenth Trade Policy Review. We also extend our thanks to the Secretariat for the Report 
distributed to Members and to Ambassador João  Aguiar  Machado of the European  Union for his 
perceptive, detailed comments as discussant.  
4.579.   Our delegation welcomes the continuous growth and admirable inflation control of the 
Japanese economy, which is based primarily on the service s sector  and manufacturing. We also 
appreciate Japan's commitment to bringing about sustainable and inclusive growth and encourage 
it to continue its efforts to reduce greenh ouse gases.  
4.580.   The friendly, cooperative relationship between Japan and Peru has deep historical ties thanks 
to the large -scale immigration of Japanese nationals to our country from the 19th century onwards, 
a flow second only to Japanese immigration to Brazi l. Japan is one of the countries that has had the 
greatest impact on Peruvian society, affecting areas as varied as gastronomy, trade, agriculture, the 
economy, and art.  
4.581.   As regards bilateral trade relations, Japan is our second largest trading partner in A sia thanks 
to a modern and ambitious strategic economic partnership agreement, which has been in force since 
1 March  2012. Although trade between our countries fell in 2020 because of the pandemic, it 
exceeded USD  3,890  million in 2021. The same year, Peru vian exports to Japan grew by 52% thanks 
to increased sales of minerals and some fuels, in particular shipments of zinc, tin, and lead. Our 
imports from Japan that year also increased by 39% owing to increased purchases of automotive 
goods such as tyres an d vehicles. Japan is the fifth largest provider of vehicles to Peru, with a total 
market share of 10%. However, we believe that there are many other opportunities for mutual trade 
that we can continue to build on, particularly in the agricultural, textiles  and fisheries sectors. For 
example, Peru can strengthen its position as a provider of coffee, bananas, and asparagus, and of 
products in other sectors, including cotton clothing.  
4.582.   We also hope to attract further Japanese investment in the manufacturing, mi ning services, 
high technology, and renewable energy sectors. An agreement recently entered into force that will 
allow the tax authorities of both countries to have an efficient mechanism to avoid international 
double taxation of income and thereby address  international tax evasion and avoidance. This 
agreement became effective on 1  January  2022.  
4.583.   Moving now to the multilateral system, I do not want to miss the opportunity to commend 
Japan for its active role and work in this forum, especially in processes s uch as that concerning 
fisheries subsidies; we know that Japan, like Peru, is doing its best to ratify the Agreement and 
encourage it to continue with this effort.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 64 - 
 
4.584.   I would also like to express my thanks for the particular support provided by the Government  
of Japan to developing and less developed countries in implementing this historic Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies through a significant donation of more than half a million dollars, the first such 
donation that the WTO has been able to procure.  
4.585.   Moreover,  we understand that one of Japan's priorities within this Organization  is to achieve 
a reform that will contribute to a long -lasting solution to the structural problems and functioning of 
the Dispute Settlement System. In this regard, while negotiations on  re-establishing the Dispute 
Settlement System and safeguarding the integrity of the international trading system continue, Peru 
would like to encourage Japan to favourably assess and consider joining the Multi -Party Interim 
Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA), which proved, through its first case, to be a viable option 
that had preserved two levels of adjudication through an impartial review, while ensuring the binding 
nature of the Dispute Settlement System.  
4.586.   Lastly, we would like to express our sincere appreciation for the fact that this review has 
served as a framework for Japan to renew its commitment to the stability and solidity of the 
multilateral trading system. In this context, Peru would like to express its particular appreciation for 
the importa nt role played in the work of this Organization by Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki and 
his active collaborators to promote various ongoing initiatives that Peru supports, especially in the 
areas of electronic commerce and services domestic regulation.  
4.587.   We wish  our dear Japanese friends a successful Trade Policy Review.  
ZIMBABWE  
4.588.   I would like to welcome Ambassador João Aguiar Machado for accepting to act as discuss ant 
as well as the Secretariat for the preparations to have th is success ful Review. I would also lik e to 
welcome the Deputy Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of 
Economic Diplomacy  of Japan , Ambassador Akihiro  Okochi and his delegation to their 15th Trade 
Policy Review.  
4.589.   This review is coming at a time when Japan , like most nations was affected negatively by 
the COVID -19 pandemic and the supply chain constraints that followed among others. This affected 
both consumption  and business investment , which we have heard from the Honourable Ambassador 
and with the i mpact of the COVID -19 now waning,  economic activities, we understand are set to be 
improving  notably  in the foreign trade arena . 
4.590.   Japan has remained one of the biggest players in the global trade with total value exports in 
2021 amounting JPY  83.1 trillion,  an increase of 21.5% from 2020. This has been due to the policies 
being implemented by the Japanese Government .  
4.591.   The long -standing  support to the economic development of developing and least developed 
countries is well appreciated , as seen in various tech nical assistance programmes that Japan has 
extended.  
4.592.   Zimbabwe and Japan have cordial trade and economic relations that have seen more 
engagement  more engagement through the Tokyo International Conference on African Development 
(TICAD) . We appreciate the me ssage by the Japanese Government at the eighth TICAD c onference 
held in Tunisia, where Japan and Africa cemented their partnership . The initiatives as announced by 
Japan , will see more young entrepreneurs  benefiting from the investment fund of more than 
JPY 10 billion which the Deputy Minister has just confirmed has been launched.  
4.593.   In terms of  technical cooperation between Japan and Zimbabwe, we have found ourselves 
benefited through J ICA on capacity building, especially as we implement the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement . As the land locked the country , JICA assisted our revenue authority ZIMRA in easing 
cross-border trading . We implemented the one -stop border post in Chirundu,  a border  we share with 
the Zambia , and through a grant, a new bridge was constructed across the Zambezi River  to assist 
the movement of freight destined as far as Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo.  A 7km 
patch of the North -South corridor in a mountainous  area was constructed through a grant by the 
Japanese Government which is further evidence of the productive relationship t hat Zimbabwe 
continues to enjoy with  Japan.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 65 - 
 
4.594.   In terms of direct exp orts and imports  between our two countries, there is need to do more , 
especially support to our industrialization agenda and value chain initiatives.  We export a number of 
commodities which ideally we should value add beneficiate  within Zimbabwe itself , and we are 
actively seeking increase d the Japanese investments to partner with us , as we travel that path  of 
industrialization and modernization . 
4.595.   We applaud the policies that Japan is implementing especially in the support to aid for trade 
initiatives , as these contribut e to enhancing the trade  capacities of developing countries , Zimbabwe 
included . 
4.596.   For the work that is before us today, Zimbabwe will continue to support the positive 
developments in Japan  and we look forward to a successful Trade Policy Revi ew. 
BANGLADESH  
4.597.   At the outset, the Bangladesh delegation welcomes H.E.  Mr Akihiro  Okochi, Head of 
delegation and Deputy Assistant Minister, Economic Affairs Bureau, Ambassador in charge of 
Economic Diplomacy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and thank for his in troductory presentation at the 
15th Trade Policy Review . We also thank H.E.  Mr João Aguiar Machado , Ambassador and P ermanent 
Representative  of the E uropean  Union for his insightful discussions. Our sincere appreciation goes 
to the Government of Japan and the WTO Secretariat for the comprehensive reports.  
4.598.   Japan has been committed to trade liberalization under the multilateral trading system 
centred  on the WTO and e ngaged in non -discriminatory, open , and rule s-based regime. Japanese 
trade policy priority is complemented by a goal of continuous expansion and deepening of trade 
relations through regional and bilateral approaches. It attaches high importance to reducing  gaps in 
the level of development between nations, to promoting the further integration of developing and 
LDCs into the global economy, and to the need to make economic development more sustainable. 
Despite above, Japan's MFN applied tariff structure remai ns complex. Out of 272  tariff rates, there 
are 136  different ad valorem , 75 different specific, and others are alternate, compound, as well as 
some other types of duties. As a development friendly country, Bangladesh expects Japan will 
continue DFQF market  access and other forms of development assistances to Bangladesh and LDCs 
for certain periods after graduation.  
4.599.   Bangladesh and Japan have historically been strong bonded nations and relationship 
between two is centuries old. Japan is one of the desired de stinations of Bangladeshi students, 
researchers under Monogakabasu, JDS and other scholarship schemes. Both countries have been 
enjoying excellent bilateral trade and economic relations since establishment of diplomatic 
relationship in 1972, though bilater al trade is tilted towards Japan. As a leading export destination 
of Bangladeshi products in Asia and 11th globally, Japanese exports was USD  2.55 billion , while 
Bangladeshi exports was USD  1.5 billion in 2022. Major imported items from Japan are iron and 
steel, mineral fuels, oils, vehicles, and others, while Bangladeshi exported items include RMG, leather 
products, shrimps , etc.  
4.600.   Bangladesh offers investor friendly and congenial climate for foreign investors. Almost all of 
the sectors allowed foreign inve stment without capping. To promote FDI, Bangladesh signed 
Avoidance of Double Taxation Treaty with 36  countries including Japan. Bangladesh has taken 
initiative to establish 100  Economic Zones to create structured and balanced investment. JICA has 
been dev eloping a Japanese Economic Zone targeting USD  1.5 billion. Bangladesh has also been 
implemented and implementing several mega -projects with Japanese support, which included Deep 
Seaport, Coal -fired Power Plant, Metro Rail project, and invites Japanese Government and investors 
to invest in human resource and other mega projects and Economic Zones.  
4.601.   To conclude, we wish the delegation of Japan a productive and successful TPR. Bangladesh 
delegation will continue to work closely with the Japanese delegations, led by H.E.  Mr Kazuyuki 
Yamazaki , Ambassador and P ermanent Representative  to the WTO, to strengthen the multilateral 
trading system while we strive to enhance our bilateral trade.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 66 - 
 
ANGOLA  
4.602.   The delegation of Angola warmly congratulates Japan for this 15th Trade Policy Review based 
on a serious document, and active participation that highlights the challenges and opportunities of 
Japanese important presence in world trade and global economy. W e have acknowledged with regret 
the profound negative impacts of the pandemic crisis in Japanese economy and society, but we 
mainly applaud the strong economic recovery from late 2021 onwards centred  on the recovery of 
private consumption and business rein vestments.  
4.603.   It is clear from both reports of Japan and the Secretariat, the importance of global and 
multilateral trade in the impressive retrieval of Japanese economy. Corporate profits remain high, 
there is a significant improvement of labour  market and e mployment, and most economic indicators 
are returning to the pre -pandemic levels and rates. Nonetheless, the Japanese economy faces new 
inflation pressures that became a global problem in the aftermath of the pandemic crisis and the 
effects of the dramatic  extension of the war in Ukraine.  
4.604.   Japan is also a country facing the oceanic defiance of climate change and demographic 
transition. The Japanese economy suffers from labour  market shortages due to the low birth rate 
and a rampant population ag eing. It is especially important for countries as Angola to learn from the 
economic and social strategies in place merging the State, the Government , and public and private 
enterprises. Japan is firmly enhancing domestic market demands through a structural process 
labelled the virtuous cycle from income to spending, merged with increasing wages to generate 
wider private consumption as structural factor for economic development and social harmony.  
4.605.   Angola can only congratulate this paramount economic development strategy  that is truly a 
paradigmatic lesson for those believing that economic growth can be sustained with poor wages and 
huge labour  exploitation.  
4.606.   The delegation of Angola also ascertains Japan firm commitment to a multilateral trading 
system centred  on the WTO,  engaged in a non -discriminatory, open, fair and rule s-based regime. 
We fully agree and support Japan efforts to achieve an expeditious reform of the WTO that will 
contribute to a long -lasting solution to the structural and functional problems of the dispu te 
settlement system, including dysfunctions concerning the Appellate Body. It is urgent and imperative 
to find a novel and lasting solution for the arbitration key role of the WTO  
4.607.   Angola and Japan are important trade partners and JICA Agency has a great p articipation in 
our cooperation. In 2019, prior to the pandemic crisis, our exports to Japanese economy reached 
USD 6.86 billion, and the imports had a volume of JPY 3.99 billion. The COVID -19 pandemic crisis 
has eroded this bilateral trade exchanges in almost 62% in 2020, and a slow recovery reignited from 
mid-2021. Angola exports are mainly of crude oil, and our country imports from Japan cars, other  
vehicles and machinery parts. There is a huge space for progress, development , and diversif ication 
of bilateral trade relations. Angola would like to receive more Japanese investment, namely in key 
areas for the industrialization of our country in strategic sectors as mining and agroindustry. Japan 
has an exemplar cooperation with Angola and amo ng several ongoing programs, our country needs 
to stress the importance of Japanese decades of efforts in helping demining our fields and roads 
after almost 40 years of devastating war. Recently, Japan made an important contribute for demining 
the region o f Kavango in the province of Cuando  Cubango. It is this mutual trust and helpful 
cooperation that will certainly build a novel future of increasing bilateral trade and investments 
between Japan and Angola.  
NEPAL  
4.608.   My delegation warmly welcomes the Japanese d elegation led by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy 
Assistant Minister of the Economic Affairs Bureau and Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy 
and commends him for the insightful highlights of the 15th Trade Policy Review of Japan. We thank 
H.E. Mr João A guiar Machado (European  Union) as discussant of the Review. My delegation thanks 
the Government of Japan and the WTO Secretariat for the valuable reports.  
4.609.   My delegation highly values Japan 's continued commitment and active participation in the 
multilateral tr ading system. We also commend its openness to international trade and its integration 
into the global economy. We are pleased to take good note that inflation rates did not exceed 1% WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 67 - 
 
during the period under review while real GDP growth rates remained moder ate in most years and 
in 2021, the growth rate stood at 1.7 %. Similarly, Japan's balance of payments featured a current 
account surplus during the period under review. As one of the developed economi es, we praise the 
active and constructive roles of Japan for the strengthening of multilateral trading system in all the 
pillars of the WTO. The regular notifications made during the review period are commendable.  
4.610.   We always welcome the offers of the preferential tariff treatment to 131  developing 
economies and highly appreciate for the extension of this facility until 2031 after the review made 
in 2021. The announcement of its plan to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and 
a goal of reducing emissions by 2030 to 46 % from its 2013 level are appreci able. Moreover, we 
commend the smart custom plan issued in 2020 with a view to promoting digitization of custom 
procedures and automation of custom inspection.  
4.611.   Nepal and Japan have been enjoying cordial relations ever since we established diplomatic 
relations in 1956. Japan has been contributing to the socio -economic development of Nepal since 
the beginning. As the best wisher of Nepal 's peace, development and prosperity, Japan has been 
assisting in the form of grant, loan, and technical assistance. Major a reas of cooperation include 
human resource development, health, infrastructures development, agriculture development, 
environment protection, and among others. Tanahun Hydropower project with the capacity 
of 140MW and Nagdhunga tunnel in the Prithvi Highwa y are major ongoing projects supported by 
Japan. Furthermore, the support of C OVID -19 vaccine is highly appreciable.  
4.612.   We value the interests of Japanese investors choosing Nepal as their investment destination, 
around 278  companies are investing in Nepal in the areas of tourisms, services and manufacturing 
followed by agriculture, and among others.  
4.613.    Air Connectivity is important for tourism promotion as well as business activities. Now, 
Kathmandu and Tokyo are connected from the direct flights, Nepal  airlines is providing this service 
which has contributed to reduce the cost and time significantly.  
4.614.   On merchandise trade front, Japan is an important trading partner of Nepal. Based on the 
primary data, Nepal has imported from Japan goods worth of NPR 6.2 billion in 2022 while it has 
exported to Japan goods amounted to NPR 1.3 billion in the same year.  
4.615.   Nepal is importing vehicles and spare parts, electronic goods, machinery and equipment, 
medical equipment from Japan while Nepal is exporting pashmina prod ucts, ready -made garments, 
woollen  goods, carpets, handicrafts, felt products, tea and coffee, Nepali paper and paper products, 
among others.  
4.616.   The trade data of goods shows a significant trade gap in Nepal 's bilateral trade with Japan. 
However, this can als o be an opportunity for further collaboration and cooperation on reducing the 
gap by further exploring and exploiting trade, investment, and tourism potentials for mutual benefit.  
4.617.   A good number of Nepali nationals have chosen Japan as their destination fo r higher 
education, learning Japanese language and culture, business promotion, and skill development 
training. In this regard, the MoU to provide training for Nepali youths as industrial worker in Japan 
under Japan International Training Cooperation Organ ization (JITCO) on 3  December  2003 is a 
corner stone. We appreciate the Government of Japan for its offers of several scholarships for the 
government officials to pursue the higher -level education in the Japanese universities under JDS 
program me.  
4.618.   Finally,  I take this opportunity to extend sincere thanks to the Government of Japan for its 
supports and expect the continued supports in the days to come. Nepal looks forward to 
strengthening its relations with Japan in the days ahead. My delegation wishes a suc cessful Trade 
Policy Review  of Japan.  
PANAM A 
4.619.   I would first like to commend H.E.  Mr Akihiro  Okochi and the Japanese delegation 
accompanying him for their outstanding preparation for this 15th Trade Policy Review of Japan. WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 68 - 
 
I would also like to welcome Ambass ador João  Aguiar  Machado, acting as discussant for this review, 
and to thank the Secretariat for its report.  
4.620.   We would like to highlight that Panama and Japan share long -standing and strong bonds of 
friendship and cooperation at the bilateral, regional and multilateral levels. Japan has been one of 
Panama's main trading partners for a number of decades.  
4.621.   As testament to the vibrancy of this relationship, Panama and Japan, while geographically 
far apart, are located in the same Pacific basin, enabling them to strengthen their ties through shared 
interests, in particular maritime shipping. According to Panama  Canal statistics, Japan is one of the 
top five users of this interoceanic waterway.  
4.622.   Japan is an important trading partner, and its companies have a sign ificant presence in 
Panama. Panamanian exports to Japan are currently focused on copper concentrate, followed some 
way behind by edible offal of animals, foliage, mosses and plants, coffee, frozen fish, chocolate, and 
frozen beef.  
4.623.   In 2020, Japan exported U SD 4,600  million to Panama. The main products that Japan 
exported to Panama were passenger and cargo vessels, large construction vehicles and cars. Over 
the last 25 years, Japan's exports to Panama have decreased at an annual rate of 1.75%, from 
USD 7,150  million in 1995 to USD  4,600  million in 2020.  
4.624.   According to the Secretariat's Report, during the review period, Japan continued to prioritize 
openness of international trade and its integration into the world economy and global value chains. 
We also note that its macroeconomic policies continued to be guided by a bold monetary policy 
based on quantitative and qualitative easing, a flexible fiscal policy and structural reforms. Real GDP 
growth rates remained moderate in most years; in 2021, the growth rate stood at 1.7%.  
4.625.   We note that, during the review period, Japan did not make any significant changes to the 
authorities responsible for all customs matters. However, in June  2020, the Smart Customs 
Plan 2020 was issued with a view to promoting the digita lization of customs procedures and the 
automation of customs inspection.  
4.626.   Panama wishes to take this opportunity to acknowledge Japan's commitment to the 
multilateral trading system, its efforts and leadership during the most recent Ministerial Conferences 
and its delegation's significant activity. As a WTO Member, Japan has worked to comply with the 
Organization's rules and promote the liberalization of trade and the elimination of trade barriers.  
4.627.   We acknowledge its active participation in the negotiations on the joint initiative on 
investment facilitation, services domestic regulation and the WTO Dispute Settlement System. It is 
also one of the co -convenors of the e -commerce initiative; all of these issues are of great importance 
to Panama.  
4.628.   Japan is also ve ry active in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies. According to the 
Secretariat's Report, Japan's latest overall strategy on fisheries is defined by the revised Basic Plan 
for Fisheries, which was issued on 25  March  2022 and is aimed at achieving a set of self -sufficiency 
targets by 2032. We call on Japan to ensure that its domestic policies and proposals in the 
negotiations on fisheries subsidies are consistent with the mandate and generate consensus among 
Members.  
4.629.   We applaud Japan for its interest in f orging closer economic ties and stepping up cooperation 
with emerging economies and reaffirm our interest in continuing to strengthen our strategic 
relationship with Japan.  
4.630.   We will be following the discussion during this review carefully, and I reiterate P anama's 
readiness to continue to strengthen ties of cooperation with Japan at the bilateral, regional, and 
multilateral levels with a view to promoting trade and investment. We wish Japan success in its 
15th Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 69 - 
 
VIET NAM 
4.631.   Viet Nam would lik e to join other Members in warmly welcoming the distinguished delegation 
from Japan led by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Minister, Ambassador in charge of Economic 
Diplomacy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan to their 15th Trade Policy Revie w. We would like 
to express our appreciation to the Government of the Japan and the WTO Secretariat for the 
preparation of comprehensive reports for this review. We also would like to thank the discussant 
H.E. Mr João Aguiar Machado, Permanent Representati ve of the European  Union to the WTO for his 
insightful observations.  
4.632.   First of all, Viet  Nam associates itself with the ASEAN Joint Statement delivered by Indonesia.  
4.633.   At the regional level, Viet  Nam highly appreciates Japan 's active and constructive 
particip ation in the global and regional mechanisms to tackle challenges to global trade. We would 
continue working with Japan to strengthen extensive cooperation at regional and international 
frameworks such as Viet  Nam-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (VJEPA ), WTO, Asia -Pacific 
Economic Cooperation Forum (APEC), Eurasian Cooperation Forum (ASEM), East Asia Summit (EAS), 
ASEAN+3, ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership (AJCEP), ASEAN Regional Forum 
(ARF), and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) with a 
view to making positive and constructive contributions to the maintenance of stability, cooperation, 
and development in the region and the world.  
4.634.   Viet Nam also acknowledges Japan 's constructive engagem ent in the multilateral trading 
system, including its active participation in several areas of work and negotiations at the WTO, such 
as COVID -19 response, fisheries subsidies, food security, aid for trade, MSMEs , etc. 
4.635.   At the bilateral level, the year 2023  would witness the 50th anniversary of diplomatic 
relations between Viet  Nam and Japan. The bilateral relationship is said to have infinite potential as 
the two countries are approaching a period of great development. Therefore, the year 2023 would 
be a go od opportunity for Viet  Nam and Japan to develop further the comprehensive strategic 
partnership, reaching out to the region and the world as partners for mutual benefits.  
4.636.   Japan is among the leading trading partner of Viet  Nam. In 2022, the total trade vol ume 
between Japan and Viet  Nam reached USD  47.6 billion, up 10.9% compared to 2021. In terms of 
investment, Japan ranks third among 141 countries and territories investing in Viet  Nam with 
4,978  projects with total capital of more than USD  68.9 billion. Th ese projects cover numerous 
sectors, including the manufacturing and processing industry, real estate business, wholesale and 
retail, repair of automobiles, motors and motorbikes, and construction.  
4.637.   Before closing our statement, our delegation would also li ke to commend the contribution of 
H.E. Ambassador Kazuyuki  Yamazaki and his able team at the Mission in Geneva for their active 
engagement and contribution to the work of the WTO. Viet  Nam looks forward to further enhancing 
the mutually beneficial economic  relations with Japan in the bilateral, regional, and multilateral fora 
and we wish the Japanese delegation a successful outcome of this Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 70 - 
 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JAPAN  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
Introduction  
5.1.  I highly appreciate the insightful remarks made by the discussant, Ambassador Aguiar Machado  
on Wednesday, as well as our Chair, Ambassador M olokomme  for your excellent management of the 
long meeting on the first day and for the concluding remarks you will  soon deliver at the end of this 
meeting.  
5.2.  I would also like to show our appreciation to all the Members who have made interventions, 
sometimes in perfect Japanese, and all those who have submitted the written questions. Let me also 
extend our great thanks to the Secretariat team for all the work they have put into Japan's 15th Trade 
Policy Review.  
5.3.  I sensed that there was enormous interest in the Japanese economy and its trade policies, and 
high expectations for Japan's contribution to the global economy. Th is time, as before, each 
Member's intervention has helped and will help us look at our own policies from different angles and 
improve them.  
5.4.  There were also concerns raised by some Members over Japan's policies. I so much appreciate 
those interventions as w ell. Hereafter, I would like to briefly respond to several comments or 
questions raised on Wednesday.  
Economic Environment  
5.5.  Since 2013, under Abenomics, Japan's GDP has expanded to a historically high level both in 
nominal and real terms, and consumer prices rebounded as a result of this policy and are no longer 
in a deflationary situation. And now, under the New Capitalism pol icy, Japan is taking initiatives to 
further develop the achievements gained through Abenomics.  
Population ag eing and women empowerment  
5.6.  I appreciate some Members' interests in Japan's efforts in labour  market policy. In response to 
its ageing population and  declining workforce, Japan has been making efforts to create an 
environment where women can smoothly find work even after having their first children.  
5.7.  The labour  force participation rate for women has increased significantly over the last decade. 
Women workers increased by about 3.4  million between 2012 and 2021. The employment rate of 
women in the child -rearing period (aged 25 to 44) has increased by more than 10 % to 78.6% during 
the same period. In addition, the number of women executives in listed companies has also risen 
5.8 times, which could contribute to narrowing the gender wage gap in Japan, because one of the 
main causes behind the gap seems to be the low  ratio of women in management positions in the 
workforce.  
5.8.  I would also like to mention that the number of foreign workers in October  2022 reached a 
record high of 1.82  million. In 2022, Japan launched 218 policies to further improve the environment 
for acc epting foreign nationals.  
ILO Conventions  
5.9.  As for ILO Convention No.  111, Japan recognizes the importance of its ratification. Further 
examination of its consistency with domestic legislation is still required and we have held annual 
meetings to exchange op inions with the representatives of workers and employers on unratified ILO 
Conventions, including Convention No.  111. 
5.10.  We will further consult with those representatives and continue to make efforts.  
Public Debt  
5.11.  A question on Japan's efforts to reduce publi c debt was raised by the discussant and some 
Members.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 71 - 
 
5.12.  While Japan is facing substantial deficits mainly due to expenditures to support the economy 
in response to COVID -19 and increased prices, the Japanese government aims to achieve a primary 
surplus in FY 2025. To achieve this goal, we believe it crucial to boost growth potential by advancing 
the New Capitalism Policy, to improve expenditure efficiency through well -targeted spending, and 
to further stabilize financial resources.  
Trade and Investment Regimes  
WTO  
5.13.  Japan's delegation was particularly pleased to hear Members' positive assessment about the 
role Japan plays in the WTO; including our open trade policy and practice during the pandemic, our 
efforts on WTO reform, e -commerce and other JSIs as well as financial contribution to Fisheries 
Subsidies Voluntary Fund. During such challenging times as today, maintaining and strengthening 
the multilateral trading system continue to be our foremost priority.  
Dispute Settlement  
5.14.  Japan continues to actively work t ogether with other Members for DS reform. As it is important 
to ensure a means for a definitive legal settlement of disputes for the rule s-based multilateral trade 
system, it remains Japan's utmost priority to have a fully and well -functioning DS system pu rsuant 
to the mandate adopted at the MC12. We will, in the meantime, also continue to consider the 
possibility of utilizing alternative means including MPIA.  
Regional Trade Agreement  
5.15.  I would also like to reiterate that Japan remains committed to ensuring that Japan's RTAs are 
WTO-consistent.  Some Members commented on our trade agreement with the United  States and its 
compliance with their obligations under GATT Article  XXIV. Japan is coordinating with the US on the 
notification to the WTO and will proceed with the appropriate procedure at an appropriate time after 
the completion of coordination.  
Foreign direct investment to Japan  
5.16.  I would like to respond to comments regarding FDIs to Japan. Some Members asked for 
further clarification about the recent amendm ent of Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act 
(FEFTA). Amended Act requires foreign investors seeking a 1% share of listed companies with 
importance to national security, public safety, public order , and Japan's economy to submit prior 
notification and und ergo a screening process.  
5.17.  While Japan recognizes that the unrestricted exercise of shareholders' rights is important for 
strengthening corporate governance, it also places great importance on preventing foreign 
shareholders' activities that could undermine  the country's security.  
5.18.  I would like to stress that Japan has been exempting foreign investors from prior notification 
in cases not involving such risks. With that, I am confident that direct investment which is healthy 
for the Japanese economy will be pr omoted.  
Economic security dimension  
5.19.  Many Members have called for detailed explanation on the Economic Security Promotion Act 
enacted in May  2022.  
5.20.  At the outset, I would like to stress that the Act is consistent with the WTO  Agreement . 
Article  90 of the Act  stipulates that "due attention shall be paid to consistency with treaties and other 
international agreements".  
5.21.  I would also like to reiterate that the Act is non -discriminatory. To give a clear example, 
foreign companies can apply for an approval for a pl an to ensure stable supplies of specified critical 
products so long as they meet the requirements for that, and approved foreign companies are eligible 
for subsidies or other governmental supports in the same way as domestic companies.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 72 - 
 
Trade Policies  
Tariffs 
5.22.  Some Members also pointed out that the structure of Japan's tariff regime is complex. I would 
like to stress that the total percentage of duty -free rates and ad valorem  rates account for more 
than 90% of the total tariff lines. For some of the remaining products, non -ad valorem  rates are set 
due to specific conditions of each item in the domestic industry. In addition, we consider that the 
tariff regime is sufficiently t ransparent, as all tariff rates are listed in the relevant laws.  
5.23.  If you have any questions or need further clarification, Japan will be ready to explain in detail 
at any time.  
SPS 
5.24.  Regarding animal and plant health, as a Member of the WOAH and IPPC, Japan d ecides import 
measures based on scientific risk assessments in accordance with the SPS  Agreement  and relevant 
international standards, and also determines whether trading partners' SPS measures are 
scientifically reasonable or not in the same way. When Jap an conducts a risk assessment, Japan 
closely consults with a requesting Member based on sufficient information provided by the Member 
and examines its request according to the results of the risk assessment. We are confident that this 
procedure is consiste nt with the SPS  Agreement  and relevant international standards, and the 
information about the whole procedure will be made public to ensure transparency.  
5.25.  Japan will continue to provide necessary information to Members as promptly as possible in 
order to en sure transparency in accordance with the SPS agreement.  
TBT 
5.26.  Several Members referred to Japan's measures regarding the TBT (Technical Barriers to 
Trade) Agreement, specifically its compliance with international standards.  
5.27.  In general, they are based on rele vant international standards, to the maximum extent 
possible, in accordance with the TBT  Agreement . Regarding Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS) and 
Japan Agricultural Standards (JAS), 97% and 77% of them are harmonized with relevant 
international standar ds. 
ALPS Treated Water from Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station  
5.28.  There was a statement on the "release of the Fukushima effluent", but let us emphasize that 
the water to be discharged will have been sufficiently purified below the regulatory standard, a nd 
that will be then further diluted.  
5.29.  Japan has been carrying out this process under the IAEA's independent and rigorous review 
and will never allow the discharge in a manner that adversely affects human health and the marine 
environment.  
Government Procur ement Agreement (GPA ) 
5.30.  Regarding the comments on the Government Procurement, Japan, as a Party to the 
Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), has made a wide range of efforts to increase 
opportunities for foreign suppliers to gain access to the Japanese mar ket. Japan has voluntarily 
established non -discriminatory, fair and transparent procedures that exceed the level stipulated in 
the GPA.  
5.31.  Japan has also made efforts to promote the transparency of procurement processes in order 
to make them more user -friendl y for foreign participants. The central government publishes an 
annual schedule of its procurement plans well in advance and holds seminars on its procurement for 
foreign entities and diplomatic corps stationed in Tokyo. In addition, for the convenience of  foreign 
participants, the Japan External Trade Organi zation (JETRO) has established an English -language 
portal site on government procurement on its website.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 73 - 
 
Sectoral Policies  
Agriculture  
5.32.  Japan takes note of many comments on Japan's agricultural policies.  
5.33.  To begin with, Japan has long been the world's second largest net importers of food, with 
imports of USD  74.8 billion and exports of USD  9.2 billion in 2021. Japan has certainly contributed 
to the well -being of food exporting economi es.  
5.34.  Food security has been one of the biggest issues for Japanese agriculture, and become an 
even more urgent issue, as the COVID -19 pandemic and the heightened geopolitical tensions have 
raised concerns about supply chain disruptions and the soaring pric es of agricultural products and 
inputs such as fertilizers. In order to address these globally shared problems of food insecurity as 
well as the environmental challenges, Japan will make its agriculture and food system more resilient 
and sustainable in a w ay that does not affect trade flows in agricultural goods.  
5.35.  Japan's measures on agricultural and forestry products are consistent with the 
WTO Agreement s, including domestic support, tariffs system, and Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) 
administration As for TRQ admi nistration, including state trading, Japan has been making the utmost 
efforts to keep the quota administration fair and transparent through WTO notifications and 
information sharing on the official websites of the relevant Ministries.  
Climate change and su stainability  
5.36.  We appreciate Members' interests in how the Japanese government will achieve 
internationally committed targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 46% in 2030 and of net 
zero by 2050.  
5.37.  Let me introduce some of the most recent initiatives ta ken by Japan. Late last year, Japan 
announced the "Basic Policy for the Realization of GX" and announced the specifics of the 
"Pro-Growth Carbon Pricing" concept, which was one of the key elements in the New Capitalism 
Policy.  
5.38.  One element in this concept i s that Japan will support upfront investment by raising funds 
through GX Economic Transition Bonds. With the funds, the Japanese government and the private 
sector will work together to realize more than JPY  150 trillion of public and private investments in  
GX over the next 10  years , in order to simultaneously achieve international commitments such as 
carbon neutrality by 2050 and to strengthen industrial competitiveness and economic growth.  
5.39.  Japan also has released the timeline for the future introduction of  carbon pricing. The 
emissions trading in Japan will phase in a trial operation in FY2023, and then start its full -scale 
operation from FY2026. In addition, the carbon surcharge, which is designed to be increased 
according to the amount of CO2 emissions pe r unit of fossil fuel, is scheduled to start in 2028.  
Manufacturing  
5.40.  Some Members raised concerns about the WTO -consistency of Japan's industrial subsidy 
programs. I would like to stress that those programs are designed and operated in a 
non-discriminatory manner and thus are consistent with the WTO  Agreement . 
Conclusion  
5.41.  I hope that Japan's robust and unwavering commitment to this mechanism is loud and clear 
to all Members.  
5.42.  As I mentioned on Wednesday, the multilateral trading system is facing unprecedented 
challenges. Given the need to address those challenges, Japan will closely continue to cooperate 
with WTO Members on WTO reform including issues such as DS reform, securing a level playing 
field, and addressing non -market and unfair trade pra ctices.  
  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 74 - 
 
DISCUSSANT  
5.43.  First, I would like to thank the whole Japanese delegation for their hard work in replying to 
over 700  questions, which demonstrates Japan's commitment and respect to this important 
transparency exercise and peer review, which Japan itself advocated to create during the 
Uruguay  Round.  
5.44.  I also wish to thank the Head of Japanese delegation, Ambassador Okochi, for providing very 
comprehensive overviews and replies both on Wednesday and today of the main recent 
developments in Japan 's economic, social and trade policies.  
5.45.  Today, I would like to convey my impressions and make some observations on the key 
overarching messages I heard during this review from over 50 WTO Members that resonated the 
most with me. I will not go into the det ails of all the trade concerns flagged by Members, as I am 
sure that Japan has taken good note of those and addressed them just now.  
5.46.  First, I was impressed by the number of Members that stressed the key role that Japan plays 
as their main or key bilateral  or regional trade and investment partner. Clearly, Japan is a key 
partner for Members across different continents and levels of development. Japan also rightfully 
received strong appreciation for its commitment to development and economic cooperation with  
developing countries and LDCs.  
5.47.  Several Members expressed hope for even closer partnerships and increased trade and 
investment flows. In this regard, we heard some encouragements to advance some of the trade 
reforms - e.g. in the agricultural sector, SPS measures, non -tariff barriers, some services sectors 
etc. - that would hopefully increase the dynamism of economic and trade ties between Japan and its 
partners even further.  
5.48.  Furthermore, we heard unequivocally that Japan remains a reliable and key partne r also in 
this Organization. I think that this review demonstrated without any doubt that the multilateral 
trading system, with the WTO at its core, continues to be a central pillar of Japan's trade policy. 
Members sincerely appreciated Japan's unwavering support and commitment to the WTO and its 
active participation in each of the WTO's three functions and the ongoing WTO reform discussions.  
5.49.  In this vein, a number of Members encouraged to join the MPIA while the work on restoring 
a fully functioning dispu te settlement system continues. Also, calls were made for Japan to join the 
fossil fuel subsidy reform. I think it is the time for Japan to step up its leadership role even further, 
especially as we now start the countdown towards developing meaningful out comes for the 13th WTO 
Ministerial Conference in Abu  Dhabi.  
5.50.  On the new challenges, emergencies and threats in the world, it is more important than ever 
to maintain and strengthen the rules -based cooperation, open and predicable global trading 
environment and promote resilient value chains. We all count on Japan to play its part commensurate 
to the size of its economy and share in world trade.  
5.51.  Members were cognisant that Japan is currently facing a multitude of simultaneous and 
complex challenges, both int ernationally and domestically. Members were very interested in learning 
about Japan's forward -looking policies that aim to resolve social issues as well as re -activate 
economic growth, through the promotion of digital and green transformations and investme nt in 
people, science and innovation. We can only encourage Japan to pursue with its various reforms 
aimed at increasing labour productivity and human capital, environmental sustainability and fight 
against the climate change, innovation, digitali zation, w hile preserving openness and fairness in 
international trade.  
5.52.  Furthermore, as Japan is increasingly focus ing on national and economic security in its 
economic and trade policies, Members will no doubt continue to observe closely the careful balance 
betwee n strengthening of economic security and ensuring fair treatment. We have taken good note 
of Japan's stated commitment to ensure transparency and a level playing field to foster an enabling 
business environment, and to support the integrity and sustainabil ity of the rules -based multilateral 
trading system.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 75 - 
 
5.53.  Finally, I am confident that Japan will take back home for further reflection the areas of its 
trade policies where Members expressed concerns and encouraged further improvements.  
5.54.  I wish to congratulate Japan for this very successful Review and also thank once again the 
delegation of Japan for the honour of acting as the discussant to the Trade Policy Review of one of 
the most prominent WTO Members and world economies.  
JORDAN  
5.55.  We would like to join other delegations in welcoming H.E.  Mr Akihiro O kochi, Deputy Assistant 
Minister, Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy at Ministry of Foreign Affairs and 
H.E. Mr Kazuyuki Y amazaki  and the entire Japanese delegation, and to congratulate them for the 
efforts excreted in preparing Japan's 15th Trade Policy  Review and Report.  
5.56.  Our appreciation is also extended to the discussant H.E.  Mr João Aguiar Machado for his 
insightful and excellent remarks, and the secretariat for the informative Report, which provides a 
comprehensive picture of the main developments in  the Japanese trade regime for the period under 
review.  
5.57.  We commend Japan 's commitment towards its WTO obligations, keep taking a key role in 
WTO initiatives, and providing supports to strengthen the multilateral trading system, assists in its 
implementatio n, and encouraging sustainable developments.  
5.58.  The report shows  the positive developments in the Japanese economy and the continued 
structural reforms to green and digital economy, in spite of the different challenges that is due to 
pandemic and recent globa l economic crises, the economic and trade policy developments aim at 
integrating its economy into the global market, mainly under the multilateral trading system.  
5.59.  The bilateral trade between Jordan and Japan amounted in 2022 around USD 437 million and 
we are always keen to expand our good trade and economic relations with Japan and to explore 
further areas of mutual interest; on bilateral and multilateral levels.  
5.60.  Japan enjoys a very positive and involving international presents which covers positive effect 
beyond trade.  
5.61.  Finally, allow me to thank Japan for this very successful Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.62.  We want to thank the delegation of Japan for their active engagement in this review. We also 
want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and effort of the delegation from Tokyo 
and also reiterate our appreciation for the close collaboration and friendship we enjoy with 
Ambassador Yamazaki and the Japanese Mission here in Geneva.  
5.63.  Like many others who spoke on day one, I have a strong personal connection to Japan, having 
lived in rural Ibaraki prefecture for two years. It is a pleasure to cont inue to strengthen U .S.-Japan 
relations as well as partnering to improve the multilateral trading system.  
5.64.  As part of the review, the U .S. acknowledged some significant trade barriers U.S. exporters 
face in the Japanese market and we appreciate your engage ment on and responses to these 
concerns.  We have submitted some additional follow -up written questions as part of this review.  
5.65.  You will see that we have asked for additional information on Japan 's internal coordination 
mechanisms between various ministries. We see great potential for increasing WTO Committee work 
on Members ' efforts to create and maintain domestic coordination systems as these mechanisms are 
essential for meeting WTO transparency obligations and promoting inclusive trade policies.  We invite 
Japan to consider sharing its own experiences with interagency coordination as part of our ongoing 
reform efforts.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 76 - 
 
5.66.  On WTO reform, we welcome Japan 's continued engagement in our collective efforts to bring 
about needed changes at the WTO to ensu re we are focused on addressing relevant and real world 
challenges facing the global economy.  
5.67.  The United  States shares Japan 's goal of reforming the Dispute Settlement System . There is 
considerable work ahead of us if we are to reach consensus on the estab lishment of a 
well-functioning dispute resolution system. We share your interest in examining and supporting 
alternative means of resolving trade concerns between Members. We note that many Members 
encouraged Japan to join the multi -party interim appeal ar rangement. Given that Japan has chosen 
not to participation in that initiative, we take that as Japan having some structural concerns with 
the approach.  We welcome Japan 's further engagement to ensure that all interests are reflected in 
the WTO Dispute Se ttlement System .  
5.68.  In conclusion, we want to acknowledge the valuable contributions Japan has made, and 
continues to make to strengthen and support the global trading system.  
5.69.  Thank you for your partnership and friendship and congratulations on your 15th Trade Policy 
Review.  
CHINA  
5.70.  Just as discussant, Ambassador Aguiar  Machado mentioned at the first day  of the  meeting, 
one of the main changes in Japan 's economic and trade policies in this review period is the greater 
emphasis placed by the Government of Japan on national and economic security issues. Like 
Ambassador Aguiar  Machado, China also expressed its concern in both its statement and written 
questions and would like to hear Japan 's view in this regard.  
5.71.  We thank Japan for its initial responses to our writt en questions. However, our concerns have 
not been fully addressed. We noticed that for some sensitive issues, Japan provided information but 
avoided the true focus. For instance, Japan explained the policy objectives of its export control 
regime and make i t clear it is not targeting specific country. China would like to point out that the 
goal of the policy does not necessarily justify the content, structure and impact of policies and related 
practices. Measures based on legitimate  policy objective may also  deviate from its original goal in 
the implementation. Especially when there is improper "coordination" with so -called "like -minded" 
allies, it is very likely to constitute a de facto discriminatory measure.  
5.72.  The Chinese side wishes to reiterate that overstretching the concept of national security and 
abusing export control measures, are not in line with the basic principles of the WTO. It will only 
undermine the stability of the global industrial and supply ch ain, increase the cost of international 
trade, and weaken the country's economic competitiveness.  
5.73.  During the first day 's meeting, many Members affirmed the overall openness of Japan's 
economic and trade regime, as well as its active role and contribution to the multilateral trading 
system. China agrees with those observation, and believes that this is an important reason why 
Japan's economy has made great achievements. Japan's once popular product in the world – Sony 
Walkman was mentioned. It is fair to sa y that Walkman and the glory of Japanese electronic products 
is a symbol of Japan's successful integration into the global value chain.  
5.74.  We hope that in any closely integrated industrial chain that has been formed, Japan will not 
seek separation or decoupl ing, which will cause Japanese companies to lose their huge market and 
the driving force for future innovation, and thus ultimately damage Japan 's own interests.  
5.75.  Japan also mentioned that the WTO is currently facing unprecedented challenges. In China 's 
view, one of the most important reasons is that in the face of a world full of changes and 
uncertainties, sliding towards unilateralism and protectionism has become an easy option. In this 
regard, certain member set a bad example. China hopes and believes tha t Japan, as a victim of 
unilateralism and protectionism once upon a time, has a clear understanding of this.  
5.76.  China hopes that Japan will continue to maintain a free, open and inclusive policy, strengthen 
cooperation with Members including China and uphold true multilateralism. China looks forward to 
Japan 's constructive role in WTO reform negotiation and preparation to a successful MC13. China WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 77 - 
 
believes that this will contribute to Japan 's own further development as well as the global economic 
recovery.  
BRAZ IL 
5.77.  We would like to congratulate Japan its Trade Policy Review, for the hard work with more than 
700 questions, it was a very productive and useful exercise. As we said on the first day, our capital 
is reviewing the answers that Japan has provided to our q uestions, and we will promptly submit any 
follow -up questions  that Brazil might have.  
5.78.  We look forward to continuing our constructive engagement and collaboration between our 
delegations here in Geneva, in particular in the areas we highlighted in our first  intervention such as 
WTO reform, MPIA, SPS measures,  market access , and reforming on agriculture . 
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.79.  Let me first thank Japan for the comprehensive overview presented last Wednesday and this 
morning of the main developments occurred in its trade and economic policy during the review 
period.  
5.80.  The EU is pleased to note that this review has been useful for b etter understanding the trade 
policy of Japan and hopes that it will duly take into account some of the challenges highlighted by 
Members.  
5.81.  We would also like to thank Japan for having provided timely replies to the questions raised 
by the EU. On a limited number of issues, we had submitted follow -up questions.  
5.82.  These relate to the results and progress in the Plan for Global Warming Countermeasures; 
certification by foreign registered conformity assessment bodies; effectiveness of voluntary 
measures to block  IP-infringing websites and discrimination of foreign companies in accessing to 
financing for developing facilities under the Specific Port Facility development Project Basic Plan.  
5.83.  The discussion on the first day of the review has shown that many Members share the EU 's 
positive views about the constructive role that Japan plays within the WTO and promoting 
rules-based in international trade.  
5.84.  We look forward to continuing our bilateral cooperation with Japan in the framework of 
EU-Japan EPA including to ta ke forward our bilateral discussions on data flows and also to resolve 
some of concerns such as regarding SPS.  
5.85.  We are also looking forward to our continued cooperation in all the relevant multilateral for a 
including restoring the WTO fully functioning Dispute Settlement System , and the reinvigoration of 
the deliberative function.  
5.86.  On behalf of the EU, I congratulat e Japan for concluding this productive and successful Review.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
5.87.  At the T rade Policy Review  of the United  States  in December  2022 my delegation stated that 
the decision of the U .S. delegation not to answer a large batch of duly submitted wr itten questions 
set a dangerous precedent. We warned that if we would allow one Member to violate its WTO 
obligations with impunity, others would inevitably follow in its wake. Unfortunately, we were right. 
Now Japan has unilaterally decided that deliverin g on its transparency commitments is somehow 
optional. This is not the case. Annex  3 of the Marrakesh Agreement, establishing the TPRM, and the 
Rules of Procedure of this Body do not provide any excuses to leave advance written questions 
unanswered. In fac t, p.22 of the Rules of Procedure clearly states that all questions, received before 
the deadline, should be answered before the start of the TPR meeting.  
5.88.  In his opening remarks on Wednesday, the Head of the Japanese delegation declared that 
"Japan commits  to working to ensure transparency " and "to support the integrity and sustainability 
of a rules -based multilateral trading system" . We heard the same slogans in today 's intervention by WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 78 - 
 
the distinguished Head of the Japanese delegation, and they were also u nderlined by the 
distinguished discussant, Ambassador of the European  Union H.E.  Mr Aguiar  Machado. In fact, 
contrarily to those assurances Tokyo, by not engaging in the questions and answers  exchange within 
its TPR, deliberately violates its transparency obligations and knowingly breaks the rules of the 
multilateral trading system . We took note that in his today 's intervention the distinguished Head of 
the delegation of Japan did  not react on this thorny issue. We understand it as the Japanese 
delegation has no arguments and has nothing to say in its defence.  
5.89.  To conclude, I would like to reiterate once again that mixing politics with trade and economics 
is extremely dangerous for all Members and the multilateral trading system.  We hope that Japa n 
honours  its WTO commitments and returns to constructive cooperation.  
  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 79 - 
 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The 15th Trade Policy Review of Japan has provided us with a good opportunity to assess and 
enhance our understanding on the wide range of trade policies and practices of Japan since its last 
Review in 2020 and acknowledge the challenges it faces.  
6.2.  The review has benefit ed from the constructive and informative participation of Japan's 
delegation, headed by Mr  Akihiro  Okochi, Deputy Assistant Ministe r, Economic Affairs Bureau, 
Ambassador in charge of Economic Diplomacy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs; from the insightful 
comments of the discussant, H.E. Ambassador João Aguiar Machado , Permanent Representative of 
the European  Union to the WTO; and from th e 56 delegations that took the floor during this meeting. 
I would like to thank them all for their contribution to this exercise.  
6.3.  Members stressed the importance of Japan to world trade and economic prosperity, praising 
its recovery from the C OVID -19 pande mic despite the disruption of global supply chains, challenges 
posed by the war in Ukraine, and the adverse impact of climate change in the form of more frequent 
and intensified natural disasters.  
6.4.  Many Members stated that Japan was one of their top tradin g and investment partners, and 
often their main export/import market. With national security in economic and trade policies 
gathering more relevance and momentum, Members were concerned with some measures envisaged 
under Japan's Economic Security Promotion  Act which is considered a centrepiece  of the Japanese 
economic policy. Japan has been encouraged to clarify the process and criteria by which it 
determines what is a "key product", "essential infrastructure services", and "advanced critical 
technology" an d which types of enterprises are eligible for the subsidies mentioned in the Act.  
6.5.  Members appreciated that Japan's FDI framework continues to be liberal, with only few sectoral 
restrictions. However, they have raised concerns about the screening requireme nts for FDI, 
measures to attract FDI and FDI restrictions in some sectors. Some Members were concerned about 
the sustainability of Japanese fiscal policy given its increasing ratio of public debt to GDP and the 
impact of Japan's declining and ageing popula tion.  
6.6.  Members commended Japan for its active participation in upholding the multilateral trading 
system including its contribution to the MC12 outcomes, its participation in WTO reform, as well as 
its constructive contribution to JSIs discussions on e -commerce, investment facilitation for 
development, the establishment of a WTO informal working group for the MSMEs, and services 
domestic regulation. Japan was applauded for being the first donor to the WTO Fisheries Funding 
mechanism, aimed to help developin g and least -developed countries implement the Agreement on 
Fisheries Subsidies. They also appreciated Japan's continued development and trade related 
technical assistance in various fields, including the implementation of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement; and the extension of the GSP scheme to 31  March  2031. Some Members invited Japan 
to join the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA).  
6.7.  Some Members commended Japan for its bilateral economic cooperations via Japan's Economic 
Partnership Agreements, and its active engagement in regional frameworks such as the Asia -Pacific 
Economic Cooperation (APEC), and the Indo -Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). Some other 
Members requested more details on the role of the IPEF and the Compreh ensive and Progressive 
Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), GSP utilization and eligibility, a bilateral agreement 
with the United  States , and Japan's plans for future RTAs.  
6.8.  Regarding trade policy, while lauding the high degree of predictabilit y in Japan's tariff regime, 
some Members were concerned about the complexity of the Japanese tariff regime and the plans to 
simplify the tariff; the provision of missing ad valorem  equivalents; regulations for customs brokers; 
export control regulations; e xport restrictions related to semi -conductors; export support measures; 
SPS measures deviating from international standards; government procurement procedures; and 
numerous intellectual property right matters. Japan was encouraged to reduce the complexity and 
peaks of its customs tariff especially in agriculture. Although Japan was also commended for its trade 
facilitation efforts, including the digitalization and automation of customs procedures amid the 
economic turmoil, it was encouraged to further incre ase transparency, reduce unnecessary 
regulation, and remove other barriers to trade.  WT/TPR/M/438 • Japan  
 
- 80 - 
 
6.9.  In term of sectoral trade policies, some Members hailed Japan for its decarbonization policy 
(net-zero greenhouse gas by 2050), the place dedicated to MSMEs, and the stro ng export and import 
recovery. Other Members requested additional information on: domestic support for agriculture in 
general; conditions and criteria for direct payments; methods of tariff quota allocation and fill rates; 
agricultural self -sufficiency tar gets; plans and incentives to promote renewable energies and 
decarbonize the economy; support for "critical products and materials", specifically for producers of 
chips and semi -conductors; foreign participation in financial services; the role of the Digit al Agency; 
and rules for data storage and transfer.  
6.10.  In total, Japan has received 787  advance written questions from 34  delegations for this 
Review, out of which 700 were sent within the established deadline, covering a broad range of topics. 
In addition, 6  more additional and 105 follow -up questions were submitted after the first day. Prior 
to this meeting, Japan already provided written replies to most questions.  
6.11.  Japan's delegation has clearly demonstrated that it places a high value on the Trade Policy 
Review Mechanism and the multilateral trading system with its active engagement over the two -day 
meeting and its ability to respond to a very high number of advance written questions. This reflects 
the importance of Japan in the multilateral trading system a nd the interest of Members in engaging 
with Japan on its trade and related policies.  
6.12.  The above points are some of the key issues that emerged in our discussion over the past 
days. I hope that Japan's delegation will consider and further reflect on these i ssues and on the 
many constructive comments that it received during the Review. Members look forward to receiving 
answers to any outstanding and follow -up questions within the customary one month, at which time 
this Review will conclude.  
 
__________