WT/TPR/M/351  
26 April  2017 
(17-2276) Page: 1/74 
Trade Policy Review Body   
8 and 10 March 2017  
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
JAPAN 
MINUTES  OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: Ms Irene Young (Hong Kong, China)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F JAPAN   ................................ ........  4 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  9 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S ................................ ................................ ........................  13 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF JAPAN  AND ADDITIONAL COMME NTS ............  62 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  73 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by Japan  are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 351/Add.1  and will be available online 
at http://www.wto.org/english/ tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The 13th Trade Policy Review of Japan  was held on 8 and 10 March 2017. The Chairperson, 
Ms. Irene Young (Hong Kong, China), welcomed the delegation of Japan  headed by Mr. Tomochika 
Uyama , Deputy Director -General, Economic Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs ; the 
delegation from Tokyo ; and the discussant, H.E.  Ambassador  Julian  Braithwaite  (United  Kingdom) .  
1.2.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Trade Policy Reviews and the m ain elements of 
the procedures for the meeting. The report by Japan  was contained in document WT/TPR/G/ 351 
and that of the WTO Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/ 351. 
1.3.  Questions by the following delegations had been submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Australia;  Switzerland; Mexico; Peru; Hong Kong, China; Canada; Republic of Moldova; Republic of 
Korea; United States; Colombia; European Union; Costa Rica; Malaysia; Ukraine; Chile; 
Singapore; Brazil; Guatemala; China; Norway; Chinese Taipei; New Zealand; Paraguay;  Ecuador; 
Indonesia; and the Russian Federation . The following delegation s submitted written questions after 
the deadline: India; Thailand; Argentina; Mongolia; Kenya; Turkey ; El Salvador; Kingdom of 
Saudi  Arabia; and Oman .  
1.4.  At the previous TPR in 2015, Me mbers had welcomed Japan 's efforts to overcome protracted 
deflation and revitalize the economy. In particular, Members had been  interested in the structural 
reforms under the Japan Revitalization Strategy, and had urged Japan to pursue without delay 
trade and investment liberaliz ation measures. During this review period, Japan made further 
efforts to stimulate economic growth, contain deflation, reduce public debt, and boost productivity. 
The authorities were now expecting a gradual rise in prices and a str onger GD P growth. As the 
3 arrows of Abenomics had  an important bearing on the business environment, it might  be helpful 
if the Japanese delegation could enlighten Members  on the latest development and the 
implications for trade and related policies.  
1.5.  As an  active Member of the WTO, Japan sought  to strengthen and maintain the multilateral 
trading system. Its constructive participation in WTO negotiations had been  commended at the last 
TPR. With the successful conclusion of the Information Technology Agreemen t in 2015, Members 
were now asking questions about Japan 's implementation of that Agreement, and also its 
participation in other plurilateral initiatives, as well as its progress in negotiating new bilateral and 
regional trade agreements.  
1.6.  As regards domes tic trade policies and measures, Members had discussed in the previous 
review topics such as customs procedures (notably improvements to the Authorized Economic 
Operator programme), and alignment of Japan 's technical requirements and SPS measures with 
international standards. Concerns had also been expressed about the relatively complicated public 
tendering procedures for foreign enterprises, and the number of exemptions to the Anti -Monopoly 
Act. Similar questions were raised in this TPR, but Members  also understood that there were new 
developments in these areas, such as the amendments to customs -related laws, the enactment of 
a new Food Labelling Act, the notification to the WTO of quite a significant number of new 
technical regulations and SPS measures, a nd the introduction of a multiple bidding system for 
government procurement. For Members  who were  interested in these developments, the meeting 
was a timely occasion for seeking further information.  
1.7.  The investment regime was another area which had seen  significant changes in recent years, 
with new and bold initiatives to attract foreign direct investment (FDI). In this TPR, Members 
asked questions about the National Strategic Special Zones, the Council for Promotion of FDI and 
the new measures it  had introd uced.  
1.8.  There were other questions about subjects such as anti-dumping and safeguard measures, 
export promotion, and many others about Japan 's intellectual property regime including the new 
legislation protecting geographical indications and Japan 's enforcem ent of IP laws.  These topics 
had not feature d prominently in the last TPR, but they seem ed to be receiving more attention this 
time. 
1.9.  Regarding specific trade sectors, the high protection for agriculture, special safeguards and 
tariff quotas, subsidy progra mmes and unbound tariffs on fisheries products continue d to be WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  matters of great interest to Members, especially those who wish ed to see reforms in these areas. 
Meanwhile, Japan was pressing ahead with its progressive liberalization o f the electricity marke t. It 
had also, since the last review, introduced changes to various service sectors, such as amending 
the Banking Act and revising the regulatory framework for telecommunications services.  
1.10.   This meeting was a good opportunity for Members to discuss in grea ter detail these issues, 
as well as other issues of interest to Members and of systemic importance to the multilateral 
trading system. The Chairperson looked forward to a fruitful exchange.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F JAPAN (MR. TOMOCHIKA  UYAMA ) 
AMBASSADOR  IHARA  
2.1.  Madam Chair, f ellow Ambassadors, an d distinguished representatives.  
2.2.  Let me begin by expressing my sincere appreciation to Ms. Irene Young, Chair of the TPRB, 
and to the distinguished discussant, His Excellency  Mr. Julian Braithwaite.  I would also like to 
extend my gratitude to the Director of the TPR Division, Mr.  Willy Alfaro and his team, 
Mr. Masahiro Hayafuji, Mr. Pierre Latrille, and Mr. Michael Kolie, for their excellent work in 
preparing the thirteenth Trade Policy Review of Jap an. 
2.3.  Since the establishment of the WTO, the Trade Policy Review Mechanism has contributed to 
ensuring the transparency of the trade policies and practices of WTO Members. Today, facing 
widespread uncertainty and growing mistrust in trade, we believe the mi ssion of the TPRM is more 
important than ever.  
2.4.  The TPRM is sometimes criticized for being toothless. This mechanism is indeed not to 
enforce specific commitments of the Members. However, soft power is often more effective than 
hard power. By preparing its report and by answering questions from peers, each Member under 
review has a chance to evaluate its own policies from new and different angles, which helps 
improve Members ' trade policies and thus strengthen the multilateral trading system.  
2.5.  As an original  advocate and proponent of TPRM at the time of  the Uruguay Round 
negotiations, Japan is determined to further contribute to strengthening this mechanism. The Sixth 
Appraisal held last year gave Members a valuable opportunity to consider how to improve the 
TPRM. There are two issues of particular note: sustainability and effectiveness. On the 
sustainability side, we achieved a significant outcome under the leadership of the Chair in regard 
to the cycles of the reviews. However, in terms of effectiveness of t he Mechanism, the outcomes 
left a lot to be desired. But there are things we can do without waiting for the next Appraisal to 
make the review more effective and relevant. For example, considering the impact of digitization 
of the economy, we should introdu ce digital trade to the Trade Policy Review.  
2.6.  For this current review of Japan, we received approximately 680 questions from 35 Members, 
and we are pleased to tell you that we have been able to answer almost all questions, including 
those that were submitt ed after the deadline.  
2.7.  Japan owes its prosperity to free trade, which is framed and ensured by the multilateral 
trading system. We, therefore, will continue to do our utmost to p reserve and strengthen the 
rule-based international trading system under the W TO. We will uphold this policy in the face of 
the current rise in anti -globalism and protectionism.  
2.8.  Having said that, I now hand over th e floor to our Head of d elegation, Mr. Uyama, Deputy 
Director -General of the Economic Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Forei gn Affairs, who will introduce the 
economic, fiscal, and trade policies of the Abe administration.  
MR. UYAMA  (HEAD  OF DELEGATION)  
2.9.  Thank you, Ambassador. Thank you, Mme Chair.  
2.10.   My name is Tomo Uyama, Deputy Director -General, Economic Affairs Bureau, Ministr y of 
Foreign Affairs of Japan, heading the Japanese delegation for the Trade Policy Review. I am very 
much hono ured to have an opportunity to explain the economic and trade policies of Japan before 
such distinguished participants.  
Abenomics  
Achievements  
2.11.   Let me first talk about achievements of the economic and fiscal policy of Japan, called 
Abenomics, followed by my presentation on our trade  policy.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  2.12.   Since the "three arrows " approach of Abenomics was launched in 2012, namely "bold 
monetary pol icy," "flexible fiscal stimulus " and "growth strategies, " the nominal GDP increased by 
9.5%, which is 47 trillion yen (more than US$400 billion), the rea l GDP grew by 5.3%, which is 
26 trillion yen (around US$230 billion). Particularly, the figures related to employment a nd 
income, which matter most to the people 's livelihood, have substantially improved. The number of 
employed p ersons increased by 1.7 million  and the active job openings -to-applicants ratio 
surpassed 1.0 in 47 prefectures, meaning that the number of job of fers surpassed that of job 
applicants in all the prefectures in Japan. This was the first time in history. The wage increase, 
including the figure in small and medium -sized enterprises recorded its highest level this century 
for the most r ecent three conse cutive years. The average household 's disposable income has also 
increased for the two years running. Those figures demonstrate undoubtedly that a positive 
economic cyc le is being generated in Japan.  
Three Arrows Approach  
2.13.   Let me explain our policies on eac h of the three arrows of Abenomics.  
2.14.   As for the monetary policy, the monetary easing by the Bank of Japan (BOJ) starting April 
2013 has achieved a situation where Japan 's economy is no longer in deflation, or a sustained 
decline in prices. However, the BOJ 's price stability target of 2 % inflation has not been achieved. 
Considering this, the Policy Board of the BOJ conducted a comprehensive review on the 
developments in economic activities and prices, as well  as on the effects of policies.  On the basis 
of the  review, the BOJ introduced last September a new policy framework called "Quantitative and 
Qualitative Monetary Easing with Yield Curve Control ", which was intended to strengthen the 
policies already under implementation including a negative interest rate.  
2.15.   As for the fiscal policy, Japan implemented its fiscal policies flexibly from the perspectives of 
achieving both economic revitalization an d maintaining fiscal soundness.  Last August, the 
Government adopted "Economic Measures for Realizing Investment for the Future " with a budget 
of 28 trillion yen (around US$246 billion ). These measures will strongly support domestic demand 
and will construct a foundation for mid - and long -term growth of Japan.  
2.16.   Third arrow is growth strategies.  Structural reforms in  various sectors are under way.  In the 
agriculture and food sector, for example, Japan has been implementing its agricultural reforms to 
enhance competitiveness and productivity. Such ref orms are already bearing fruit.  Japan has been 
achieving its highest record  on food export every year in th e last four consecutive years.  
2.17.   While there are steady outcomes in a number of areas, the structural reforms as a whole 
have not reached a point where activities in the business sector are expanded in a full scale.  
2.18.   To generat e a new momentum of growth, Japan will not fear of changes and will continue to 
strongly promote structural reforms.  
Japan 's Plan for Dynamic Engagement of All Citizens  
2.19.   In 2015, Prime Minister Abe launched a nationwide policy to tackle the problem of decl ining 
birth rate and aging population with the targets of:  
1) achieving the largest nominal GDP in post -war history of 600 trillion yen (around US$5.3 
trillion).  
2) achieving the d esirable birth rate of 1.8; and  
3) creating the situation where "no one forced to le ave their jobs for nursing care ". 
2.20.   In June 2016, specific measures to achieve these targets were announced under the name 
of "Japan 's Plan for Dynami c Engagement of All Citizens ". Utilizing the fruits of economic growth 
under Abenomics, Japan will strengthen  the foundation of childcare and social security. Japan will 
boost the potential growth rate by expanding labour participation by introducing measures which 
enable people to keep on working wi th childcare and nursing care. Japan will make its economy 
more robust by further expanding consumption through wage increases, by expanding private 
investment, evolving its growth strategies and improving its productivity through innovation and WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  participation by a diverse range of the people. In short, Japan seeks to e stablish a positive cy cle of 
growth and distribution.  
Japan 's trade p olicies  
2.21.   I now would like to  explain Japan 's trade policy. There are five points.  
Strengthening the MTS  
2.22.   Firstly, the multilateral trading system under the WTO is a fundamental basis of gl obal trade 
and, therefore, has been a main pillar of Japan 's trade policy. Japan will continue to support the 
multilateral trading system through its active participation in each of the three functions of the 
WTO, namely, monitoring and implementation, dis pute settlement and negotiations.  
2.23.   As for the negotiating function, for example, Japan put a lot of resources and contributed to 
the conclusion of Information Technology Agreement expansion negotiations, which was done at 
MC10 in Nairobi under the chairmans hip of Japan.  
2.24.   Attaining tangible results at MC 11 in December this year will also contribute to enhancing 
the confidence of the WTO in its negotiating function. One of the possible areas would be to update 
the rule book of the WTO which needs to adapt to t he changing environment o f world economy 
and technology.  Among others, strengthening rules on electronic commerce and digital trade are 
critical as the digital economy is greatly changing the way the world economy works, where a 
number of different and new  ways for doing e -commerce are being developed. Japan remains 
committed to contribute to such discussions.  Japan also supports a realistic and incremental 
approach, taking into account specific circumstances that each of the WTO Members is facing.  
2.25.   Japan al so would like to emphasize the importance of resuming and concluding the 
negotiations for the Environmental Goods Agreement (EGA) as well as Trade in Services 
Agreement (TiSA), both of which robust energy and considerable resources have been devoted to 
by participating Members. These plurilateral negotiations are also important for expanding trade, 
advancing global value chains and showing that the WTO 's negotiating functions a re still alive.  
Fighting Protectionism  
2.26.   Secondly, fighting against protectionism in the world has been an important pillar of Japan 's 
trade initiatives. To prevent the spread of protectionism, it is necessary to maintain the 
multilateral trading system, as embodied in the WTO, based on its free and fair trade rules. Since 
the financial  crisis in 2008, Japan has been a vocal advocate to making anti -protectionism 
commitment at the leaders ' level and has contributed to initiating and maintaining such 
commitment at APEC, G7 and G20.  
Development and Aid for Trade  
2.27.   As my third point, I would l ike to ta lk about trade and development.  Japan has taken 
serious steps and initiatives in implementing the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development 
Goals (SDGs) both internally and internationally by setting up the SDGs Promotion Headquarters in 
the Gov ernment of Japan with the participation of Prime Minister, as its head, and all o ther 
ministers in the cabinet. As also highlighted in Addis Abeba Action Agenda, Japan sincerely 
believes that an inclusive, sustainable and resilient growth through the expan sion of trade and 
investment is indispensable to achieve the goals and targets of SDGs.  
2.28.   Japan is strongly aware of the importance of Aid for Tr ade plays in assigning 
capacity -building efforts in developing countries, which is  essential for expanding trade . By 
providing Aid for Trade amounting to approximately US$11.8 billion in 2015, Japan is actively 
implementing such support as one of the top donors.  
2.29.   For instance, "Nhat Tan Bridge " which was constructed in Vietnam in 2015 with Japan 's 
cooperation has con tributed significantly to shortening the time of transportation between the 
airport and the center of Hanoi. This is one of many examples where Japan extended cooperation 
to Vietnam. We believe such cooperation has significantly contributed to the implemen tation of WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  Vietnam 's development strategy to increase competitiveness and, thereby, to attract FDIs and to 
expand trade.  
2.30.   Such Japanese cooperation is extended to many other counties. Japan is also taking 
initiatives in development in Africa.  At the Sixth To kyo International Conference on African 
Development (TICAD VI) which was held in Nairobi last August, one of the priority areas for 
discussion was economic diversif ication and industrialization.  The improvement of business 
environment in Africa was the key  component in the discussion. Consistent with the results of such 
discussions, Japan announced that it would invest approximately US$30 billion for the future of 
Africa. Developing quality infrastructure is envisaged in such an endeavo ur. Japan also announ ced 
the launch of the "Japan -Africa P ublic-Private Economic Forum " to further promote a business 
friendly environment in Africa.  
2.31.   Regarding the Trade Facilitation Agreement, which recently entered into force, Japan places 
high priority on assisting its impl ementation in developing countries . Japan has already been 
providing strong support for international harmonization and simplification efforts on customs 
procedures in cooperation with the relevant international organizations such as the Wor ld Customs 
Organization (WCO). For example, Japan has been actively supporting projects such as 
establishing electronic customs procedures and the implementation of a single window system in 
ASEAN as well as the establishment and operation of One -Stop Border Posts (OSBP)  in Africa.  
2.32.   With respect to the import from the least developed countries (LDCs), the items eligible for 
duty-free and quota -free market access to Japa n has already reached about 98%, which exceeds 
the level agreed in the Hong Kong Ministerial Declaration .   
2.33.   Through such a number of measures, Japan continues to contribute to the expansion of 
trade, promoting industrialization and encouraging economic devel opment in developing countries.  
EPA/FTAs and Investment Agreements  
2.34.   Fourthly, I will explain Japan 's efforts in promoting Economic Partnership and Investment 
agreements. As part of activities to maintain and strengthen the multilateral trading system and 
free and fair trade, Japan is promoting negotiations including so -called mega -FTAs.  
2.35.   Negotiations on the Trans -Pacific Partnership Agreement were among such efforts. Japan 
notified New Zealand, which is designated as the Depositary of the Agreement, of the completion 
of Japan 's domestic procedures for the TPP in January. We believe that the rules agreed throu gh 
the TPP negotiations are expected to be the basis of future economic partnership agreements.  
2.36.   Japan is active in negotiating other EPAs/FTAs.  Japan intends to reach an agreem ent on 
fundamental elements of the Japan -EU EPA neg otiations as early as possib le. Japan also aims to 
create high quality agreements for the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and 
the Japan -China -Republic of Korea  Free Trade Agreement.  
2.37.   With regard to investment agreement, Japan has set a goal of signing and/or achievi ng 
entry into force of investment -related agreements covering 100  countries or regions by 2020. So 
far, 13 economic partnership agreements, including investment chapter, and 29 investment 
agreements have bee n signed or entered into force.  
Import restrictio ns on Japanese foods  
2.38.   Finally, I would like to touch upon the Great East Japan Ear thquake that struck Japan on 
11 March  2011. Six  years have passed since then. We appreciate again a variety of cooperation 
from all over the world for our reconstruction effor ts. 
2.39.   Regarding the import restrictions on Japanese foods that had been introduced by a number 
of Members after the accident at Tokyo Electric Power Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Plant, I am 
happy to share with all of you that most of the measures have been eith er lifted or relaxed. We 
appreciate those Members that took decisions on an o bjective and scientific basis. We are hoping 
that those Members still maintaining restrictions also take a science based approach and eliminate 
or ease their restrictive measures soon.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  Closing r emarks  
2.40.   In closing, we are witnessing the rise of the sentiment of anti -globalization and 
protectionism in many parts of the world. Since the WTO has played a central role in promoting 
free trade based on rules which are free and fair, the W TO has a mission, in particular under the 
current circumstances, to maintain and strengthen the multilateral trading system and to deliver a 
message to the world on the importance of free trade and the important role the WTO is playing in 
promoting trade, economic growth and prosperity. For our part, Japan is determined to continue to 
play our role within the WTO so that the WTO can achieve its mission.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
3.1.  It is an honour to have been appointed discussant for the 13th Trade Policy Review of Japan, 
the world 's third largest economy and a key partner for the WTO. Japan 's Trade Policy Review 
comes at an interesting moment in the global economy and ahead of the WTO 's 11th Ministerial 
Conference.  
3.2.  I would like to lend my voice to those c omments made just now by Japan 's Permanent 
Representative to the WTO, Ambassador Junichi IHARA in reiterating the importance and value of 
the WTO 's Trade Policy Review Mechanism.  
3.3.  Furthermore, I would like to extend a warm welcome Mr . Tomochika UYAMA, who i s heading 
the Japanese delegation for the second time, and to the members of his delegation. Before I start 
my presentation, I would note that my remarks are made strictly in a personal capacity.  
Macroeconomic trends   
3.4.  I will start with some recent economic  trends. The economic environment continues to 
provide a challenging backdrop since the previous review, nonetheless Japan has held fast with the 
development of an ambitious reform programme.  
3.5.  During the past two Trade Policy Reviews of Japan, we have consi dered the "three arrows " of 
modern Japanese economic policy, commonly known as "Abenomics ". These arrows are directed 
towards three main targets: the first, a monetary policy that takes account of quantitative and 
qualitative monetary easing; a second – fiscal – arrow that combines a short -term recovery 
strategy with the objective of fiscal consolidation in the medium term; and a third arrow intended 
to restore the potential for growth, with a series of detailed structural reforms.  
3.6.  Two years ago, Members r ecogniz ed that the "third" arrow of structural reform would be of 
the most direct interest to the Trade Policy Review Body because it included plans and 
programmes to increase investment, improve productivity, and thus enhance trade. In her 
concluding rema rks, the Chair Ambassador Salleh urged Japan to pursue these structural reforms 
without delay, includin g trade and investment liberaliz ation measures, to achieve strong economic 
growth, encourage private investment, increase productivity, and enhance compe titiveness.  
3.7.  The Japanese G overnment has demonstrated that it is willing to revise and refine its plans to 
meet the challenges it has set itself. Concerning the third "arrow ", last year Japan published a 
"Growth Strategy 2016 " which aims to grow Japan 's GDP  to 600 trillion yen through the 
implementation of difficult structural reforms.  
3.8.  Yet the wider macroeconomic challenges which Japan faces are considerable. At Japan 's last 
IMF Article IV consultation in 2016, the IMF 's Executive Board welcomed the initial success of 
Abenomics and the authorities ' forceful implementation of policies to lift growth and inflation. 
Nonetheless, growth remains subdued and deflationary pressures persist, on the back of , I quote:  
"weak consumption, lacklustre private investment an d sluggish exports ".  
3.9.  In 2015, global flows of foreign direct investment rose by about 40 %, to US$1.8 trillion, the 
highest level since the global economic and financial crisis began in 2008. Global inward FDI flows 
to developed economies almost doubled to  US$962 billion. Yet, outward FDI from Japan only 
increased by 13.3% while inward FDI flows into Japan in 2015 decreased.  
3.10.   I will dwell on one element of the "Growth Strategy 2016 " which identifies several projects 
ahead of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paral ympic games. They aim to showcase Japanese cutting -
edge technologies, so that these technologies can continue to be in practical use after 2020 as a 
legacy of the Tokyo games. It will also be a platform by which to promote tourism activities in 
Japan.  
3.11.   In 2012, the UK hosted the Olympic and Paralympic games in London. We estimate that the 
long term economic benefits of holding the games at £14.2  billion to date. We have also seen our 
tourism sector continue to break new ground as a result of Games -related pr omotion activity.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  Demographic and societal trends  
3.12.   Recent demographic statistics show that Japan 's population peaked in 2010 at just over 
128 million beginning what is projected to be a sustained and increasingly rapid decline. 
Simultaneously, Japan 's popu lation is ageing rapidly. From 1950 to 2015, the share of population 
aged 65 and over grew from just under 5% to over 25%. This is the highest such figure, 
worldwide.  
3.13.   Promoting the role of women and the elderly in the workforce will enhance social cohesio n 
and reduce Japan 's relative poverty rate. This will in turn help to boost domestic consumption in 
Japan.  
3.14.   In order to meet these challenges, the Government of Japan has created a national plan, 
the "Plan for Dynamic Engagement of All Citizens, " which cont ains a set of ambitious targets. 
These targets are namely:  
 A nominal GDP of ¥600 trillion (which I discussed earlier);  
 The desirable birth rate of 1.8% through improving the provision of child -care and 
promoting gender inclusion to address the projected de crease in  the population;  and 
 Zero cases of persons forced to leave their jobs to provide nursing care to elderly relatives 
and increasing the participation of older workers in the work force.  
3.15.   The G overnment of Japan aims to promote employment of the elder ly by raising  the 
retirement age to 65 and encouraging businesses to employ those beyond the age of retirement. A 
comprehensive approach to reforms to support healthier ageing, longer careers, more efficient 
healthca re provision and other measures  can also  help to offset the impact of Japan 's ageing 
population. Ageing can also create new demand as part of the so -called "silver economy ". 
3.16.   With regards to gender inclusion, much of the recent increases in the rates of employment 
in Japan have been attributed to  the increase in the numbers of women in paid emp loyment. 
However , in 2015 , 56% of all female employees were in non -regular employment.  
3.17.   The literacy and numeracy proficiency of Japanese workers is among the highest across 
OECD countries, but many workers,  particularly women, do not make full use of these skills while 
at work. Underutilisation of these skills also hampers innovation and the adaptation of new 
technologies.  
3.18.   As part of Japan 's efforts to create a GDP of 600 trillion yen, the Japanese G overnme nt has 
included several initiatives to help capital ize on the Fourth Industrial Revolution. But what is the 
Fourth Industrial Revolution? In a termed popularised by the World Economic Forum just across 
the lake, they argu e that we are in the midst of a dig ital revolution characteriz ed by the fusion and 
dissemination of technology. The First Industrial Revolution used w ater and steam power to 
mechaniz e production in the woollen mills of Northern England. The Second used electric power to 
create mass producti on typified by Mr. Ford and his Model T 's. The Third used electronics and 
information technology to automate production which Japan pioneered from the 1960s.  
3.19.   Like all revolutions, the Fourth Industrial Revolution has the potential to bring incredible 
benef its to the world economy by raising global income levels and improving the quality of life for 
populations around the world. But it is not without its risks as well. It could yield greater 
inequality, particularly in its potential to disrupt labour markets . As manufacturing processes and 
services sectors are automated , labour and jobs could be displaced and the skills needed to 
perform the remaining work could change dramatically.  
3.20.   These trends demonstrate the need for Japan to invest in areas such as educat ion and 
training which are needed to meet the emerging challenges of the Fourth Industrial Revolution 
while boosting Japan 's growth potential. Japan could also consider further how to take advantage 
of the global labour market.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  Trade policy developments  
3.21.   In his recent speech to the Japanese P arliament, Prime Minister Abe said that , I quote:  "as a 
standard -bearer of free trade, (Japan) will construct a 21st -century econ omic system based on fair 
rules". Their actions both in the WTO and elsewhere bear testame nt to this statement.  
3.22.   Over the past two years, Japan has been an active Member of the WTO, playing its role in 
the entry -into-force of the Trade Facilitation Agreement as well as the ongoing negotiations ahead 
of MC11 in Buenos Aires. Japan has also contri buted to several plurilateral initiatives such as the 
Government Procurement Agreement, the Information Technology Agreement and the negotiations 
on environmental goods. In particular, I would like to c ommend Japan for their role in c hairing the 
negotiatio ns on the staging of commitments to the expansion of the ITA, which allowed for 
agreement at the Tenth Ministerial Conference in 2015.  
3.23.   With regard to the existing network of preferential agreements, these are indicated in the 
report by the Secretariat and the statement by Japan. Prime Minister Abe has said that Japan 
remains committed to free trade agreements. Japa n has continued to implement it s shift towards 
preferential trade agreements since 2012. It now has 16 Economic Partnership Agreements with 
20 co untries, up from 14 since the last Review.  
3.24.   But what is a 21st century trade deal? To my mind, it is an agreement that facilitates trade 
in parts and intermediate goods, as well as the accompanying international movement of services, 
capital, data, intelle ctual property, people, and know -how, going beyond the simple trade in 
finished products and beyond merely reducing tariffs. It should also make a full -fledged attempt to 
support solving global issues – such as climate change, environmental protection and labour 
standards – which have intrinsic trade linkages that have been discussed here in Geneva and 
elsewhere for many years.  
3.25.   Japan helped to pioneer many of the innovative features contained in the TPP agreement 
which went some way towards addressing these  issues. Whilst I understand that there is 
uncertainty as to the next steps for the TPP, the published draft agreement offers valuable lessons 
to all of those thinking about future FTAs.  
3.26.   Japan has also played a strong role in overseas development assistanc e and the Aid -for-
Trade initiative. As part of their flagship programme, the "Tokyo International Conference on 
Africa 's Development VI " or TICAD VI, Japan has committed to invest in the future of Africa 
through implementing measures centring on developing  quality infrastructure, building resilient 
health systems, improving productive capacity and laying the foundations for peace and stability.  
3.27.   The WTO Secretariat noted in its report that the overall orientation of Japan 's trade policies 
has remained broadl y unchanged since its previous review in 2015. Japan 's tariff regime has 
remained predictable. Japan has a bound average tariff of 3.6% for non -agricultural products and 
16.7% for agricultural products. There is a large variation in the tariff regime, with  the highest 
rates and compound tariffs applying to agricultural products which remain persistently high.  
3.28.   During 2013 -15, Japan 's ratio of merchandise trade (exports and imports combined) to GDP 
averaged 30%. The share of exports of goods and services in G DP, which has been on an upward 
trend since 2011, stood at 17.9% in 2015, while the share of imports stood at 18.9%. Japan 
remains a net importer of services. Currency fluctuations during the review period contributed to 
higher receipts from tourism.  
3.29.   Japan is not a frequent user of trade defence measur es, although the number of 
anti-dumping measures impl emented by Japan has increased from 2 in 2014 to 6 in 2016 .  
3.30.   In the World Bank 's "Doing Business Report " in 2017, Japan came 34th globally (down two 
places  from the previous year). These are barriers which businesses pay close attention to as they 
impact not only the development of new domestic companies but also the trade in services. 
Indeed, many of these concerns mirror those expressed by European busines ses in the most 
recent European Business Council in Japan 's 2016 white paper.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  3.31.   Among the important linkages between the trade policy framework and the reforms to be 
covered in today and Friday 's debate, reflecting the questions raised by Members, I would li ke to 
draw your attention to the following:  
3.32.   Japan 's investment regime: m any Members have raised questions regarding the restrictions 
in pla ce on Foreign Direct Investment,  requesting additional details on initiatives and support  
measures to attract inward FDI, and how Japan plans to proceed with the National Strategic 
Special Zones and the development of special economic zones abroad.  
3.33.   Customs: Members raised questions on the several systems Japan has in place to expedite 
the release and clearance of goods, including an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme; 
on the details of the mutual recognition arrangements on AEO programmes; and on the exact 
procedures at the border for different products.  
3.34.   Techni cal standards and regulations: a  number of Members p osed questions relating to  the 
harmoniz ation of Japanese technical standards and regulations with international standards as well 
as the intentions of the Japanese G overnment for th ose which have not been harmoniz ed. 
3.35.   It is clear that Japan intends to stren gthen competitiveness through domestic structural 
reforms and to incorporate new growth engines from abroad, using the pressure and external 
leverage provided by trade negotiations. Some progress to this effect has already been made in 
the agriculture and fisheries sector, driven in large part by the TPP negotiations. It might be 
useful, I think, for Members to hear more about Japan 's experiences in pursuing such reforms , in 
particular how Japan has turned agricultural products, traditionally a defensive ar ea into an 
offensive interest where agricultural exports from Japan are increasing year on year.  
3.36.   It seems it has become tradition during Japan 's Trade Policy Review to quote my 
distinguished predecessor, Ambassador Jonathan Fried, on the importance of Japan, I quote:  
"Japan Matters " in the international economy and global trade. I cite the world 's third highest GDP, 
the second largest overseas investor worldwide, the fourth largest exporter and importer. Japan is 
a leading and active supporter of the intern ational trading system and a strong proponent of 
development assistance. All this remains true today as it did four years ago.  
3.37.   Nonetheless, while some of the challenges we face today are the same as four years ago, 
many are not. The Japanese Government ha s demonstrated its willingness to tackle difficult 
reforms in order to meet its stated public policy objectives. It is my hope that over the next two 
days this review will provide an opportunity to examine these reforms in further detail and help 
shape a p ath for those that will be implemented in future.  
3.38.   I wish Japan a successful Trade Policy Review.  Thank you.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
AUSTRALIA  
4.1.  Australia and Japan enjoy a mature and extensive trade and economic relationship, 
underpinned by complementary str engths and needs. Our strong bilateral relationship has been 
further enhanced by the Japan -Australia Economic Partnership Agreement (JAEPA), which entered 
into force in January 2015. JAEPA is a comprehensive and high -quality agreement that delivers 
new opp ortunities for two -way trade and inve stment. Utiliz ation of the agreement by Australian 
business is strong, with more than 90 % of eligible Australian goods exports to Japan making use 
of tariff preferences. In its consideration of JAEPA in April 2016, the WTO Committee on Regional 
Trade Agreements commented positively on the agreement, noting its inclusion of WTO -plus 
outcomes. JAEPA 's ongoing success demonstrates our countries ' shared commitment to open 
markets and the benefits that come from the free flow  of trade and investment.  
4.2.  Japan is Australia 's third largest trading partner, second largest export market and Australia 
is Japan 's single largest supplier of primary energy, with major exports including coal, Liquefied 
Natural Gas, and iron ore. Major im ports from Japan are passenger motor vehicles, refined 
petroleum and goods vehicles. Australia and Japan 's two -way trade in services are dominated by 
tourism and transport.  
4.3.  Japan has been a major source of investment for Australia over many decades, which has 
strongly contributed to Australia 's economic growth. A surge in recent investment resulted in 
Japan becoming Australia 's second largest source of Foreign Direct Investment in 2015. Between 
2011 and 2015 Japanese investment in Australia has grown at a r ate of almost 15 % per year.  
4.4.  Since Japan 's last Review, Australia has continued to work closely with Japan to support the 
multilateral trading system. We welcome Japan 's leadership on the implementation of the Trade 
Facilitation Agreeme nt (TFA), being the s ixth M ember to accept the agreement. We look forward to 
continuing to work with Japan to support the implementation of the TFA by all WTO Members so 
that the full benefit s of the agreement can be realiz ed.  
4.5.  We were pleased to work closely with Japan on the  successful conclusion of negotiations to 
expand the Information Technology Agreement and thank Japan for its timely implementation of 
its obligations. We welcome our partnership with Japan in the Environmental Goods Agreement 
negotiations as we work towar ds our shared goal of liberaliz ing trade in environmental goods to 
help tackle the world 's environmental challenges.  
4.6.  Australia comme nds Japan 's efforts to revitaliz e its econom y through Prime Minister Abe 's 
"Abenomics " agenda, and encourages Japan to cont inue implementing its structural reform 
agenda, including in agriculture. JAEPA stands as testament to Japan 's ability to undertake reform 
in its agriculture sector, and we encourage Japan to continue searching for further opportunities 
for reform.  
4.7.  As stro ng partners in securing the peace and prosperity of our region, Australia and Japan 
stand together as advocates of an open global trading system that contributes to inclusive growth. 
Australia looks forward to working cooperatively with Japan in supporting  the rules and norms 
underpinning t he multilateral trading system.  In the lead up to MC11 we are confident that Japan 
will show continued engagement and leadership in order to secure valuable outcomes for all 
Members.  
4.8.  Australia asked Japan a large number o f written questions; we thank Japan for their answers, 
and look forward to reviewing them carefully.  
SWITZERLAND  
4.9.  Thank you for giving me the floor. I also wish to thank the discussant for his incisive 
introduction to the scrutiny of one of the key Members of the WTO. I think we can all agree that 
Japan has been a keen supporter of the multilateral trading system. Japan 's active engagement in 
the deliberations in virtually all WTO bodies is held in high esteem by all of us. The size of the 
Japanese economy d warfs that of Switzerland by a large measure.  And geographically the two WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  countries could not be farther apart. Yet the recent economic histories of Japan and Switzerland 
bear some striking resemblances. Two decades ago, both economies were beset by serious  
difficulties when real estate bubbles burst and economic growth was put at risk. This meant that 
the economic framework of both economies had to be reinvigorated. The reforms chosen by the 
two countries have taken different paths ever since.  
4.10.   Japan 's own a nd distinctive reform effort, symbolized by the three arrows, has been broad 
and far -reaching. Some positive results have already been achieved. We know from our own 
experience that reform measures need time before they come to complete fruition.  
4.11.   The firs t arrow in the form of extraordinary monetary policy measures has yielded some of 
the desired outcomes. The rate of change in the consumer price index has moved back into 
positive territory. It remains to be seen to what extent the additional money injecte d into the 
economy will bring about more private spending and induce commercial banks to increase lending 
activities. .  
4.12.   Government spending has certainly stimulated the economy as well. While it is true that the 
second arrow or fiscal policy ought to be c onducted in a flexible manner, it seems equally 
important to do more to create a stable fiscal framework. This with the long -term perspective of 
achieving sustainable public finances.  
4.13.   More structural reforms in line with the third arrow could undoubtedly open up space for 
more lending and attract more foreign direct investment as well. Japan has for quite some time 
been an important investor abroad but enjoys a relatively modest inflow of FDI. As the OECD has 
pointed out, this moderate appetite of foreign investors to venture into the Japanese economy 
may be attributed to an unclear regulatory environment and a somewhat inflexible and ageing 
labour market.  
4.14.   It has not escaped our attention that the strategy of the third arrow also points at more 
trade liber alization. We share Japan 's concern about emerging protectionist tendencies. We 
therefore appreciate Japan 's determination to continue to place the WTO firmly at the centre of the 
international trade system. Japan has quite usefully complemented this polic y by building a 
network of economic partnership agreements.  
4.15.   Switzerland and Japan share a long history of bilateral economic relations which started 
more than a century ago with a first trade agreement. More recently, Japan and Switzerland 
concluded a bil ateral trade agreement which has been in force since 2009. Japan now is 
Switzerland 's second  largest export market in Asia.  
4.16.   Trading with Japan has also been facilitated by the introduction of Authorized Economic 
Operators or AEOs. We note that frequent us e of the concept has been made i n that SMEs account 
for over 40 % of all AEOs. We do, however, feel that the overall number of 600 certified AEOs 
seems rather low given the size of the economy.  
4.17.   Before concluding, I would like to commend Japan for having em barked on a long -term 
energy policy which aims at an energy mix of declining fossil fuels and increasing renewable 
energies. This is all the more remarkable since the tragic nuclear accident of 2011 had resulted in 
a sudden, yet inevitable spike in the cou ntry's carbon intensity. At the same time, Japan remains 
committed to the elimination of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies. Switzerland very much welcomes 
Japan 's support for the G20 peer review process for the reform of fossil fuel subsidies.  
4.18.   Switzerland would like to thank Japan for having provided detailed answers to the questions 
we had submitted in advance. We look forward to further constructive discussions with the 
delegation of Japan in this trade policy review, but equally with respect to the work undertaken 
together with our Japanese colleagues within the framework of the G10.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  MEXICO 
4.19.   We are pleased to begin by highlighting the positive growth in Japan's economy, albeit of no 
more than 0.5% in 2015, on account, among other factors, of the low level s of domestic 
consumption and inflation recorded, and the toll taken by the devastating effects of the 2011 
earthquake, which have had a severe impact on its finances.  
4.20.   Japan has managed to maintain its position as the world's fourth -largest exporter and 
importer of goods and services, despite the fact that its export growth rate slowed considerably, 
falling from 8.3% in 2014 to 2.8% in 2015, mainly because of the sluggish growth of its principal 
trading partners and weak global demand.  
4.21.   Mexico notes with sat isfaction that the three pillars of the "Abenomics" economic policy – 
monetary easing, fiscal stimulus and structural reforms – continue to constitute the main means 
employed to combat deflation, tackle the problem of population aging, improve labour produ ctivity 
and attain the GDP target of ¥600  billion.  
4.22.   In our statement during Japan's 12th review in 2015 we were already expressing concern 
that Japan faces significant challenges such as population aging and high levels of government 
debt, which already sta nds at over 245% of GDP. We hope that Japan will be able to overcome 
these challenges.  
4.23.   My delegation congratulates Japan on maintaining an open economy and continuing to push 
for a non -discriminatory, rule -based multilateral trading system, something on wh ich we have 
worked together, both within the WTO and in the G -20 and the APEC.  
4.24.   It should also be noted that during the review period Japan has had recourse to very few 
anti-dumping measures and has abstained from applying countervailing and safeguard measu res. 
4.25.   Japan has implemented important tools to promote trade facilitation, such as a single 
window, among other measures which give effect to the Trade Facilitation Agreement, and this has 
doubtless been a factor in lifting it from 49th to 20th place in the  rankings for Trading across 
Borders and from 122nd to 70th in the Paying Taxes rankings in the World Bank's Doing Business 
index, within a mere two years.  
4.26.   All developing countries' economies have their "Achilles' heel". For Japan, it is agriculture, 
which  continues to be one of the most protected sectors of its economy.  
4.27.   As we have already done in previous reviews, we reiterate our concern in this regard. First 
of all, the average applied tariff for agricultural products is 16.3%, in other words almost five  
times that for non -agricultural products, which average 3.5%. Secondly, the supports given to the 
agricultural sector continue to be some of the highest, and their main component is price support 
schemes, which are among the most trade - and production -distorting forms of support.  
4.28.   Accordingly, we urge Japan to press on with its reform and liberalization of agricultural 
markets, in line with the objectives governing the multilateral trading system.  
4.29.   In 2015, Japan was the world's second -largest investor and i t is one of the biggest investors 
in Mexico. It is estimated that it invests some US$8  billion, which represents 65% of Asian foreign 
direct investment (FDI) into my country. The automotive sector has pride of place; but a recent 
survey conducted by the Ja pan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) identified Mexico as the 
preferred non -Asian destination of manufacturing companies. On 15  February  2017, the first flight 
by the Japanese airline ANA touched down in Mexico, which is a testimony to the sustain ed 
expansion seen in our bilateral relations.  
4.30.   Trade in goods between Mexico and Japan exceeded US$20  billion in 2016. From 2008 to 
2016, Mexico's exports to Japan grew by 84%. We have a bilateral Economic Partnership 
Agreement, which we are in the process of expanding, in line with the mandate handed down from 
the meeting of our respective leaders in the summer of 2014.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  4.31.   In regard to economic competition, we welcome the reform consisting in the introduction of 
a new appeal procedure and a new hearing in the general procedure, and the unbundling 
obligation imposed on new mobile network operators in the telecommunication sector. 
Nevertheless, we wish to underline that some business practices and cartels remain exempt from 
the scope of the Anti -Monopoly Act, suc h as cartels on export, joint business activities and 
agricultural cooperatives, among others.  
4.32.   We urge Japan to take increasingly firm steps to rectify this type of distortion in economic 
competition.  
4.33.   I close by thanking Japan for the answers to the questi ons formulated by my delegation. We 
wish the Japanese delegation every success in its review.  
PERU  
4.34.   Peru highlights the efforts which the Japanese government has been deploying in order to 
offset the adverse impact of the severe natural disasters that have blighted parts of the country in 
recent years. Similarly, it welcomes the implementation of economic policies aimed at relaunching 
the economy and returning to the path of economic growth, such as reform of the energy sector, 
promoting innovation, and poli cies to improve business governance. Peru is confident that the 
practical endeavours of the Japanese government, allied with the human and technical capital of 
its population, will enable it to achieve its short - and long -term economic goals.  
4.35.   As far as bil ateral relations are concerned, official ties between Peru and Japan go back a 
long way, having begun with the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, Trade and Navigation concluded on 
21 August  1873. Peru was the first Latin American country to establish diplomatic relations with 
Japan and the first in South America to receive Japanese migration when the ship "Sakura Maru" 
docked in the port of Callao on 3  April 1899, an event now commemorated by the "Peru -Japan 
Friendship Day". Recently, Peru had the honour to host a visit by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on the 
occasion of the APEC Leaders' Summit in Lima in November  2016, during which various aspects of 
our bilateral relationship agenda were given new impetus, such as cooperation in the areas of 
energy and transport.  
4.36.   It is in this favourable context that our current bilateral trade relations are developing. 
Japan is our fifth -largest export market and second -biggest trading partner in Asia. Our mutual 
trade reached over US$2.6  billion in 2016. We would also highlight th at an Economic Partnership 
Agreement has been in force between Peru and Japan since 1  March  2012, forging a specific 
regulatory framework which provides favourable conditions for trade and business between the 
two countries, and has boosted non -traditional  agricultural exports from Peru to Japan, particularly 
of fresh and frozen asparagus and frozen fruit. Our delegation likewise underscores the 
convergence of interest with Japan in the negotiation of plurilateral trade agreements, as was the 
case for the T rans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and the Trade in Services Agreement (TISA).  
4.37.   For this trade policy review, Peru has sought to obtain more details on the government 
mechanism for implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement in Japan. We have also 
submit ted questions on Japan's import quotas for specific fisheries products and on the application 
of its current anti -dumping regulations and its competition protection system.  
4.38.   We thank Japan for its detailed answers to our questions, which will be carefully a nalysed by 
the relevant Peruvian authorities.  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.39.   Japan has been one of our top thre e trading partners for decades.  We are also amongst the 
top major sources of d irect investment to each other.  There are 1,300 Japanese companies now 
operating in Hong Kong, with more than 200 regional headqua rters and 400 regional offices.  We 
look forward to fostering even closer economic and trade cooperation with Japan, especially in 
expanding trade in the services sector.  
4.40.   Turning to some specific aspects of J apan's trade policy, we wish to applaud Japan for being 
the second developed country Member and the sixth WTO Member to ratify the Trade Facilitati on WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  Agreement (TFA). Now that TFA has entered into force, we encourage Japan to continue imp roving 
its customs  procedures. We appreciate Japan 's initiative, for instance, to develop the Authorized 
Economic Operator programme, and are pleased to see its improved ranking in the World Bank 's 
Trading Across Borders index. We stand ready to work with Japan and all WTO Members in 
ensuring a more transparent and predictable trading environment through effective 
implementation of the TFA.  
4.41.   We commend Japan for its predictable tariff regime, with a binding coverage of more than 
98% and a negligible difference between the av erage bound and applied rates. We note, however, 
that tariffs for agriculture products are relatively high, and so are those for some industrial goods 
such as footwear and headgear, which are not included in the GSP scheme either.  
4.42.   Moreover, 7.6 % of Japan 's tariff lines share internation al tariff peaks exceeding 15%. We 
encourage Japan to reduce tariff peaks and to simplify its tariff structure.  
4.43.   In agriculture, we note that there have not been any major changes to Japan 's market 
access and domestic support measures since the last review. The support and protection given to 
this sector remain high, and are provided through a comprehensive set of policy me asures not 
limited to tariffs. While we fully appreciate that agriculture is a sensitive sector for Japan,  we 
encourage Japan to review its existing market access measures, with a view to  moving towards a 
more liberaliz ed trade regime.  
4.44.   We also note that Japan has not yet submitted its latest notification of domestic supp ort in 
agriculture to the WTO. We encour age Japan to bring its notifications up to date in a timely 
manner for the sake of transparency.  
4.45.   As regards services, we appreciate that the sector in Japan is broadly open to competition. 
Hong Kong, China (HKC) looks forward to closer cooperation with Jap an to pursue cont inuous and 
progressive liberaliz ation of trade in services.  
4.46.   Indeed, within the WTO, Japan and HKC have been constructive partners in various contexts 
including as FANs in Rules, as co -sponsors of e -commerce proposals, and as parties  to plu rilateral 
negotiations. Together with many other WTO Members, we concluded the expanded Information 
Technology Agreement, the benefits of which are shared with all WTO Members by virtue of the 
MFN principle.  We look forward to the early implementation of t he expansion agreement in Japan, 
so that these benefits  can be realiz ed.  
4.47.   While on WTO work, my delegation also wishes to congratulate Ambassador Ihara on being 
elected Chairman of the Dispute Settlement Body, which is a testimony to the high regard he 
receives from the membership, and a recognition  of his leade rship and contribution to this 
Organiz ation.  
4.48.   HKC has posed a number of written questions in connection with th e current trade policy 
review. We are grateful for Japan 's responses and  will consider t hem carefully. We also look 
forward to continuing this useful discussion over the next two days, and wish Japan a very 
successful trade policy review.  
CANADA  
4.49.   Japan plays a key role in the Canadian economy as our 4th largest trading partner and as 
our top A sian investor. Relations between our two countries are deep and multi -faceted and 
strengthening our bilateral ties is a priority for our Government.  
4.50.   Today, Japan is a leader in manufacturing and innovation and it is a key actor in many 
global value chains . The remarkable economic success that it has enjoyed since the mid -20th 
century is a testament to the transformative power of sound trade and economic policy.   
4.51.   However, Japan also faces serious econo mic and demographic challenges.  Japanese decision 
maker s are keenly aware of these challenges and, to address them, have put in place a series of 
ambitious policy measures focused  on monetary, fiscal, and structural reforms, known as 
"Abenomics ". WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  4.52.   Canada is following Abenomics with interest, especially the impl ementation of structural 
reforms, which if successful, will lead to more open markets, a more efficient allocation of 
resources  and greater competition.  This will benefit both Japan and its trading partners.  Canada 's 
statement will focus on these positive structural reforms as well as Japan 's trade negotiating 
agenda, and areas where Japan could improve its trade policy.  
4.53.   First, Canada would like to recognize the leadership that Japan has shown in promoting free 
and open markets. At a time of uncertainty for  the global trading system, it is important for 
countries like Japan and Canada to demonstrate a renewed commitment to the WTO and to 
ensuring the free -flow of goods, investment, and services. In this regard, Canada and Japan have 
invested significant effo rt in negotiating a bilateral Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) and we 
look forward to resuming our negotiations, which would demonstrate to the world our respective 
commitments to free trade.  
4.54.   We welcome Japan 's ambitious trade negotiations agenda, inc luding bilateral and regional 
initiatives as well as its many contributions to the ongo ing work of this Organization. From the 
foresight that it has demonstrated in advancing discussions on e -commerce, to its robust 
participation in plurilateral WTO negoti ations, to its persistent contribution to the day -to-day work 
of WTO committees, Japan has demonstrated the considerable strength of its commitment to th e 
multilateral trading system. We wish to congratulate Ambassador Ihara on his well -deserved 
appointmen t as Chairperson of the DSB and look forward to working with him both in that role and 
in his subsequent capacity as Chairperson of the General Council.   
4.55.   Second, on this International Women 's Day, Canada commends Japan 's efforts to increase 
the participat ion of women in the workforce. Not only do these efforts help to address labour 
shortages, and increase the number of well -paid consumers, they also serve to enhance diversity 
which will bring fresh ideas  and creativity to boardrooms. Japan 's "Womenomics " program me has 
addressed some of the specific challenges faced by Japanese women and will encourage them to 
make a greater contribution to Japan 's economy.   
4.56.   Finally, Canada welcomes the steps that Japan has taken to deregulate it s electricity and 
gas secto rs. Full deregulation will create further opportunities for international partnerships and 
collaboration between Japanese and foreign firms.  
4.57.   While we welcome these positive economic and trade policy developments, allow us to 
highlight three areas where fu rther improvements could be made: agriculture, govern ment 
procurement, and forestry.  These areas are a focus of some of our questions and also appear to be 
of interest to other Members.   
4.58.   In agriculture, although we welcome recent reform initiatives, inclu ding those impacting the 
structure of Japan 's agricultural cooperatives system, Canada encourages Japan to continue its 
efforts toward liberalizing trade and to improve market ac cess for agricultural products.  For 
instance, reducing agricultural tariffs an d limiting the extensive support and protection that is 
provided to agricultural producers would contribute to Japan 's objective of improving the 
competitiveness of this sector.  
4.59.   Regarding government procurement, the Secretariat report notes that foreign p articipation 
was only 3% in 2014. Canada encourages Japan to revise its current procedures and practices to 
allow for more transparency and competition in its procurement tenders at all levels of 
government.  
4.60.   Finally, Canada notes Japan 's introduction of th e Legal Wood Use Promotion Law, which is 
expected to enter into force in May of this year. Canada shares the objective of reducing trade in 
illegally harvested forest products. We encourage Japan to work with countries that have extensive 
experience in Sus tainable Forest Management, such as Canada, to ensure that the new legislation 
meets its objective, but does not become an inadvertent trade barrier.  
4.61.   In closing, Canada would like to recognize the vital role that Japan plays at the WTO 
specifically and on the global stage generally. We look forward to continuing to partner with Japan 
on a range of trade and other initiatives.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.62.   Canada is looking forward to a constructive exchange of views on all aspects of Japan 's 
economy, and we wish the Japanese delegation  every success during this review.  
REPUBLIC  OF MOLDOVA  
4.63.   The Republic of Moldova appreciates Japan 's constructive role in the WTO and its active 
participation in the negotiations on expanding the scope of the Information Technology 
Agreement. We would also l ike to congratulate Japan on its ratification of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement in June 2015, shortly after its previous Trade Policy Review.  
4.64.   The Government 's three -pillar strategy of monetary policy, fiscal stimulus, and structural 
reforms (in areas suc h as agriculture, energy, and healthcare) launched in 2013 continues to be 
the main strategic framework for existing deflation and revitalizing the country 's economy, 
especially by upgrading corporate governance, enhancing labour flexibility and mobility, promoting 
venture capital investment and improving policies for small and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs).  
4.65.   Despite the challenging and uncertain economic environment, since the last TPR, Japan had 
a stable yet modest economic performance, with a GDP growth  of only 0.5% in 2015, due to the 
deteriorating purchase power and fall in private consumption. In this sense, we support Japan 's 
decision to abstain from a further consumption tax rise until October 2019.  
4.66.   In 2015, the stock of inward foreign direct invest ment (FDI) remained at around 4% of GDP. 
Japan maintains a general policy of attracting and strengthening FDI.  
4.67.   Japan 's legislative and institutional framework regarding anti -dumping, countervailing, and 
safeguard measures has remained largely unchanged  since its previous review. Howe ver, Japanese 
Government  took several steps in 2015 to grant tax incentives to innovative basic research 
activities, a signifi cant share of the programmes  is dedicated to regional development efforts for 
areas recovering from th e tsunami and nuclear disaster.  
4.68.   On the procurement side, we welcome Japan 's amendment introducing a "multiple bidding 
system ", where two or more companies can bid on a project if one company cannot supply the full 
amount of the order alone. We see this mea sure as increasing SMEs efficiency and profitability, 
which is a main aspect of the Government Procurement Agreement.  
4.69.   Japan has several systems in place to expedite the release and clearance of goods, including 
an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program me. In this context, the Republic of Moldova 
expresses its interest  to initiate the bilateral negotiations  on the mutual recognition arrangements 
(MRAs) on Authorized Economic Operator in order to facilitate trade relationship and generally 
make it more su stainable.  
4.70.   The Republic of Moldova has addr essed 5 questions regarding to p aragraphs 3.31 and 3.60 
of the Secretariat r eport on the Trade Policy Review of Japan, especially with regards to 
compliance with the amended TRIPS Agreement, as well as to strength ening the protection of IPR 
of small and medium -sized enterprises. We thank the Japanese side for the answers provided to 
our questions.  
4.71.   We state with satisfaction an unprecedented deepening of the Moldovan -Japanese relations 
in the period under review. We  welcome the opening, for the first time ever, of the Embassy of t he 
Republic of Moldova in Tokyo  in April 2016, along with opening of the Embassy of Japan in 
Chisinau in May 2016. Undoubtedly, these steps will further strengthen our already increasing 
bilateral trade volumes and spheres of cooperation.  
4.72.   Moldova is ready to work with Japan, especially with a view to expand export of Moldovan 
products, particularly Moldovan wine, to the Japanese market.  
4.73.   The volume of bilateral trade has been modest in 2015 -2016, exports accounting to 
US$1.3  million , while imports accounting to US$42 million , with clearly a negative trade balance 
for the Republic of Moldova. Moldova is mostly exporting wine products, carpets and textiles, while 
importing electronics from Japan . WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  4.74.   May I take this opportunity to express gratitude for the considerable technical and financial 
assistance provided by the Government of Japan, through JICA programs, KUSANONE and 2KR, in 
agriculture, health , education and culture sectors,  Japan being the third largest donor of Moldova, 
following the United States and the European Union.  
4.75.   We are convinced that there is still a great potential to be explored in the fields of bilateral 
trade and investments, especially by means of gradually liberalizing the vi sa regime between the 
two countries, starting with economic agents and mutual recognition of the Authorized Economic 
Operators  
4.76.   The Republic of Moldova is confident that the 13th exercise of the trade policy review will 
help Japan achieve its economic objec tives and fully honor its international commitments.  
4.77.   We look forward to continue further strengthening our bilateral relations with Japa n and, we 
wish to the Japanese d elegation the utmost success during this trade policy review cycle.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.78.   I am pleased to note that the bilateral economic relations between Korea and Japan remain 
strong. In 2016, Japan and Korea was each other 's third largest trading partner, with bilateral 
trade reaching US$71.9 billion. With respect to FDI, Japan was the secon d largest foreign investor 
in Korea with US$1.3 billion, and Korea 's outbound investment to Japan amounted to 
US$530  million. All these figures demonstrate a very close economic partnership that we hope will 
continue to grow and develop in the future.  
4.79.   Turning to Japan 's overall economic performance since its last TPR, I wish to commend  the 
efforts of the G overnment of Japan towards revitalizing its economy amid the overall global 
economic downturn and increasing uncertainty. Needless to say, in order to get  the global 
economy back on track, major economies such as Japan must regain their full strength and vitality 
as soon as possible.   
4.80.   As the Secretariat report notes, Japan 's expansionary economic policies alone have been 
insufficient to achieve strong econ omic growth. We welcome that Japan has carried out substantial 
structural reforms since 2013. While sharing the view that far -reaching structural reforms are 
necessary to address Japan 's long -standing problems such as high public debt, a rapidly aging 
population, high cost of doing business and regulatory barriers, we hope that Japan will continue 
to take steps toward structural reform, including further trade and investment liberalization and 
measures to stimulate competition.  
4.81.   We note that Japan has been a ctively participating in bilateral Free Trade Agreements such 
as the ones with Australia, the EU and Canada, as well as regional trade agreements such as TPP, 
RCEP, and CJK (China -Japan -Korea) Free Trade Agreement. I would like to appreciate these 
efforts;  and I hope they will contribute to further liberalization of Japanese trade policy in general.  
4.82.   Japan 's overall simple average MFN tariff rate was as low as 6.1% in 2016. Despite this 
apparently liberal tariff regime, Korean exporters have experienced sig nificant difficulties in 
accessing to the Japanese market. This is largely due to Japan 's NTBs that range from domestic 
regulations, TBT and SPS measures to complicated business practices. Korea remains keen to work 
with Japan to address those issues.  
4.83.   We have submitted advance written questions to Japan. The questions posed by my 
delegation range from Japan 's government procurement to some of its policies on foreign 
ownership applying to TV broadcasting companies. Our questions also touch upon intellectual 
property -related issues. We thank the Japanese delegation for providing answers to those 
questions, which we will review carefully.  
4.84.   Finally, my delegation notes with satisfaction Japan 's commitment to the multilateral trading 
system embodied in the WTO, an d its strong support for and participation in the current 
negotiations ahead of MC -11. Korea will continue to work closely with Japan in a constructive 
manner for the sha red goal of a successful MC -11. I would like to conclude by expressing my WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  sincere appr eciation to the Japanese delegation for its hard work and wishing Japan every success 
in its TPR. Thank you.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.85.   Japan is a vital strategic and economic partner to the United States, an d a key nation in 
world trade. As the Secretariat r eport note s, Japan is the world 's fourth -largest exporter and 
importer of g oods and services. President Trump and Prime Minister Abe held their first official 
meeting in Washington DC last month and in their Joint Statement affirmed their strong 
determination to str engthen the U. S.-Japan economic relationship.  They noted that "the United 
States and Japan represent 30 % of the world 's GDP and share an interest in sustaining a strong 
global economy, ensuring financial stability , and growing job opportunities ". The leade rs 
"emphasized that they remain fully committed to strengthening the economic relationships 
between their two countries and across the region, based o n rules for free and fair trade ". Also, 
they "reaffirmed their intent to continue cooperat ion in regional and global fora ". 
4.86.   Within the WTO, the United States highly values its close working relationshi p with the 
Government of Japan.  In the two years since the last Trade Policy Review, Japan has continued to 
undertake structural reforms to boost domestic growth  to the benefit of Japan and the entire 
global tradin g community.  The United States applauds these efforts. But, unfortunately, Japan 's 
economic performance remained sluggish, with real GDP contracting by 0.03% in 2014 and 
expanding only by 0.5% in 2015, a s the Secretariat 's Report notes.  Likewise, despite efforts to 
attract foreign investment, in 2015 the stock of inward foreign direct investment remained at 
about 4% of GDP, which continues to be low compared to ot her major developed economies. The 
Japanes e Government has set a goal of doubling inward foreign direct investment by 2020 that, 
while certainly ambitious, will likely  prove difficult to achieve.  
4.87.   Meaningful structural reforms in Japan will help a ddress global trade imbalances.  In this 
regard, the U.S. goods trade deficit with Japan was US$68.9 billion in 2016, second only to China. 
This ongoing goods deficit remains of seriou s concern to the United States.  Prime Minister Abe has 
highlighted a number of areas for reform, including ones relating to c orporate governance, medical 
care, and labor markets. We remain hopeful that the Abe administration also will continue to 
undertake ambitious domestic regulatory reforms to create new economic opportunities a nd 
further open its economy.  
4.88.   Although Japan 's industrial tariffs are generally low, significa nt non -tariff barriers remain. As 
a result, the United States continues to look to Japan to take new, bold steps to increase 
transparency, reduce unnecessary regulation, and remove other  non-tariff barriers to t rade. 
4.89.   In particular, the United States has expressed strong concerns for years about the overall 
lack of access to Japan 's automotive market for U.S. automotive companie s, due to non -tariff 
barriers. A variety of non -tariff barriers impede access to Japan 's automotive market (such as 
issues relating to certification; unique standards and testing protocols; and hindrances to the 
development of distr ibution and service networks). These non -tariff barriers have had the 
long-term effect of excluding and disadva ntaging U.S. manufacture rs in the Japanese market. The 
United States urges Japan to remove non -tariff barriers that impede U.S. manufacturers ' ability to 
compete on a level playing field with their Japanese competitors, both in the area of automobiles 
and beyond.  
4.90.   Another priority for the  United States is agriculture. Although Japan is the fourth -largest 
single -country market for U.S. agricultural products, substantial market  access barriers still 
remain. Prime Minister Abe has pursued serious reforms aimed at increasing the efficiency and 
competitiveness of this sector. Nevertheless, as the Secretariat r eport observes, Japanese 
agriculture remains highly protected, with some of the highest import tariffs in this sector, and 
imports of certain key agricultura l products are carried out  by state trading enterprises.  
4.91.   Finally, the United States urges Japan to ensure transparent and fair opportunities for 
foreign companies to compete for gov ernment procurement contracts. According to the Secretariat 
report, in 2014  foreign participation in Japan 's government procurement remained about three 
percent in value.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  4.92.   The United States welcomes Japan 's support for expanding global trade and supports 
concrete measures by Japan to contribute to this goal by undertaking further,  aggressive 
structural reform and f urther market opening at home. The United States looks forward to 
continued close cooperation with the Government of Japan in working towards that goal . 
COLOMBIA  
4.93.   I should like to begin by acknowledging the major contribut ion that Japan makes to the 
WTO and to world trade in general. We are aware that the Japanese economy faces sizeable 
domestic challenges such as depressed demand, population aging and a falling growth rate, and 
are gratified to see that many of its strateg ies have been aimed at fostering greater liberalization. 
We believe that this is a worthy example to follow.  
4.94.   Japan consistently contributes to the multilateral system through active participation in the 
various processes ongoing within the WTO. It played a  key role in the negotiation of the 
Information Technology Agreement (ITA) and is one of the leaders of the current process to 
expand it (ITA  II). It is supporting the development of the Environmental Goods Agreement (EGA), 
and was one of the first countri es to ratify the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the Protocol 
amending the TRIPS Agreement and the revised Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA).  
4.95.   In addition, I should like to highlight three facets of its participation in the WTO. The first is 
its high level of tariff binding in access to goods and services: tariffs are bound for 98.2% of the 
range of products, and in services it has commitments in 10 of the 12 sectors in its 
GATS  schedules. The second is that the tariff binding maintains a system of MFN commitments 
which Japan also extends to the majority of countries outside the WTO. And the third is its 
extensive implementation of the General System of Preferences (GSP), whereby Japan maintains 
preferences for 137 developing countries and seven t erritories (including all the LDCs) covering 
98% of the tariff lines for products originating in those countries.  
4.96.   Nevertheless, this commitment to the international trading system is not applied equally in 
all sectors, and the agriculture sector is still t he most sensitive. In terms of domestic support, the 
most recent notification submitted by Japan dates back to 2012. We therefore wish to take 
advantage of this policy review to appeal to Japan to update this information as much as possible.  
4.97.   Furthermore, g iven the level of protection Japan affords to agriculture, in particular the kind 
of domestic support and market access measures for specific products, this is a sector of the 
economy in which Japan could still progress in order to further open up and stim ulate international 
trade, thereby benefiting many developing countries.  
4.98.   We should also like to refer to Japan's investment regime, which is a subject of growing 
interest in this Organization. Japan has always stood out as being one of the main sources of 
investment worldwide. However, its performance as a recipient of investment is less remarkable. 
According to UNCTAD's most recent investment report, whereas Japan was the second -biggest 
exporter of capital in 2015, it does not figure among the world's top 20 recipients of investment. 
Furthermore, the World Bank's Doing Business 2017 report ranks the country in 34th position 
among 189 economies analysed for Ease of Doing Business.  
4.99.   This has prompted Japan to strengthen its "investment facilitation" strategy w ith various 
initiatives such as revising the regulations to enhance the business climate, improving investment 
support measures, fostering "national strategic special zones" and improving the system for the 
resolution of labour disputes. These are doubtles s measures tailored to Japan's situation which the 
authorities consider will help them meet the target of doubling the 2014 levels of foreign 
investment inflows by end 2020. We believe that it is important to hold up this strategy as an 
example for facilit ating investment.  
4.100.   The last aspect I will address is competition policy, a topic of great importance for the 
involvement of foreign businesses in the local economy. According to the Secretariat report, 2015 
saw the entry into force of a major regulatory cha nge that improves hearing procedures and 
introduces a new appeal procedure. Nevertheless, one aspect needing review is the continued 
existence of exemptions to the overall competition regime for some activities such as insurance, WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  international maritime tra nsportation, aviation, small enterprises and export of products, among 
others.  
4.101.   I should like to conclude by reaffirming once again the importance of Japan's economy for 
world trade, and above all its crucial role in the Asia region. It is with this in mind  that Colombia is 
continuing to make efforts to achieve a better trading relationship with Japan, and we hope that 
the conditions will soon be in place to conclude the ongoing negotiation towards a trade agreement 
between the two countries. We wish Japan e very success in its trade policy review and encourage 
Ambassador Ihara and his mission to continue playing an active role in the WTO with the aim of 
improving the functioning of the multilateral trading system.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.102.   Japan is an important strategi c and economic partner of the European Union and a key 
player in the global trading system. We highly value the good cooperation between the EU and 
Japan.  
4.103.   As acknowledged in the Secretariat report, the overall orientation of Japan 's trade policies 
has rema ined broadly unchanged since its previous review in 2015. On that occasion, the Chair 
underlined the importance of the structural reforms implemented by Japan under the third arrow 
of Abenomics aimed at increasing investment, improving productivity, and en hancing trade.  
4.104.   However, after two years, while Abenomics succeeded in boosting expectations and 
stimulating the Japanese economy, a number of structural impediments remain and make it 
difficult for Japan to achieve strong sustained growth.  
4.105.   While the EU ac knowledges the progress made by Japan in the areas of energy, corporate 
governance and the on -going reforms in agriculture, we note that concerns remain regarding the 
deregulation in a number of economic sectors. Further efforts are needed to improve the b usiness 
environment. We look with interest at the concrete measures that Japan will adopt for the 
implementation of the latest growth strategy package adopted in June 2016, in particular in 
relation to further regulatory reforms.  
4.106.   A word on our bilateral r elationship with Japan. The EU and Japan continue to work closely 
on a wide range of issues ranging from economic, trade and investment matters to regional 
security, development, disaster relief and management, human rights, energy and environment, 
social policy and science and technology. The negotiations of a highly ambitious Free Trade 
Agreement and of a Strategic Partnership Agreement with Japan remain a priority for the European 
Union. The negotiations are now mature and both the EU and Japan are commi tted to concluding 
these agreements as soon as possible. The EU expects Japan to demonstrate through the FTA its 
commitment to open trade, including on agriculture.  
4.107.   At a multilateral level, I would like to compliment Japan for its leadership and constructi ve 
role in this Organisation and in the multilateral trading system more generally. The EU fully agrees 
with Japan on the need to strengthen and maintain the multilateral trading system, which forms 
the basis of global trade and helps fight the rise of pro tectionism around the world. The EU also 
praises Japan 's support to the WTO 's peer review system of Trade Policy Review and Trade 
Monitoring. Having said that, we regret that, after having worked closely on the negotiation of the 
expansion of Information a nd Technology Agreement, Japan is one of the few members that have 
not yet implemented the agreement. The EU urges Japan to implement the agreement without any 
further delays.  
4.108.   As already stated, the EU acknowledges Japan 's continued efforts to facilitate trade and 
foreign investment, however, in the EU 's view further actions would be necessary in some 
following areas.  
4.109.   First, the EU notes the improvements of Japan 's regulatory environment during the period 
under review. While the progress is commendable, t here are still non -tariff measures, especially 
concerning SPS or TBT matters that are awaiting resolution.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  4.110.   To start with SPS approval procedures, the EU notes certain discrepancies between the 
Japanese legislation and relevant international standards. Reg arding regionalisation, unjustifiably, 
Japan continues to impose country -wide bans on EU Member States when an animal disease 
outbreak occurs (e.g. African Swine Fever, Avian Influenza). The EU urges Japan to accelerate the 
speed of its approval procedures  and to assure that its SPS measures are based on science and 
are fully consistent with international standards.  
4.111.   On TBT matters, the EU notes that the Japanese Government has taken the decision to 
make better use of international standards. Recent areas o f progress concern textiles labelling, 
regulations applicable to passenger cars and pharmaceuticals. More progress is needed to address 
the further requirements set by some domestic standards that go beyond international practices.  
4.112.   Second, the EU consider s that Japan should put more efforts into creating a solid and 
predictable framework to facilitate foreign investment and improve corporate governance.  
4.113.   Third, on services, the EU notes that regulations remain overly opaque in a number of 
sectors such as a ir and maritime transport services.    
4.114.   Finally, the EU notes that improvements are still lacking in the area of public procurement 
where insufficient transparency and cumbersome administrative procedures appear to be 
prevalent, in particular at local level . 
COSTA  RICA 
4.115.   Costa Rica is pleased to participate in this trade policy review. Japan is an important 
trading partner for Costa Rica, and the two countries share common interests and initiatives. 
Japan is one of our biggest trading partners in Asia, being t he second -largest source of our imports 
from that region and the top destination for our exports.  
4.116.   Costa Rica wishes to acknowledge the role that Japan plays in the WTO, its leadership and 
resolute support for the multilateral trading system, and its valuab le contribution to the Aid for 
Trade programme. Like Japan, Costa Rica is taking part in initiatives such as expansion of the 
Information Technology Agreement (ITA), the Trade in Services Agreement (TISA) and the 
Environmental Goods Agreement (EGA).  
4.117.   Costa Rica and Japan also have common interests in areas such as strengthening the 
WTO rules, especially in regard to anti -dumping measures, reviewing the Dispute Settlement 
Understanding, and most recently stimulating e -commerce.  
4.118.   Turning to this specific review , we would single out the efforts carried out by Japan to 
implement structural reforms, with a view to encouraging labour force participation and improving 
the corporate governance framework.  
4.119.   Although the so -called "Abenomics" economic policy pursued by th e current government 
has not fulfilled all of the objectives mapped out, there has been progress in key areas such as 
business profits, incomes, the national employment rate and in particular the deflationary trend 
which the Japanese economy had displayed for several years.  
4.120.   It is also worth emphasizing the new pillars introduced by Abenomics, which reflect human 
values to which we should all aspire, such as solidarity and social inclusion. As Japan states in its 
report, we all have a useful function to fulf il in life, whether in the home, in the workplace or 
somewhere else. It is admirable that these objectives should be incorporated in Japan's economic 
policy and we thus wish it much success in achieving greater integration of all its citizens in 
society.  
4.121.   Another aspect which draws our attention is Japan's new energy policy and its future 
outlook. According to the forecasts for 2030, Japan would be significantly increasing its supply of 
renewable energies, which would come to account for around 14% of the to tal energy supply. This 
would greatly help to reduce Japan's current high dependence on imports of fossil fuels. On this 
latter point, it would be interesting to know whether Japan's energy policy contemplates fossil fuel WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  subsidy reforms and whether it has  considered undergoing in the short term the voluntary peer 
review process established by the G -20 in this regard.  
4.122.   Despite the positive aspects highlighted above, we remain concerned at the high level of 
protection for the agricultural sector, which is vis ible through various measures such as high 
tariffs, tariff quotas, domestic support policies and propping up market prices. We will therefore 
closely follow the steps that Japan is taking towards market -oriented agricultural trade and to 
increase the secto r's competitiveness and productivity in the long term.  
4.123.   For this trade policy review, Costa Rica submitted a set of questions to Japan concerning 
various elements of its trade policy. We are grateful for the attention given to these questions by 
Japan, and I would like to conclude by wishing Japan a successful trade policy review.  
MALAYSIA  ON BEHALF  OF ASEAN  
4.124.   ASEAN and Japan has a long standing and mutually beneficial relationship having become 
dialogue partners 44 years ago. Since then, ASEAN and Japan have established the ASEAN -Japan 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership in 2008 which serves to further strengthen our trade and 
investment ties leading to immense growth in both areas.  
4.125.   In this regard, Japan ranked as ASEAN 's second largest trading partner as well  as our 
second largest source of FDI in 2015, as merchandise trade between ASEAN and Japan valued at 
US$239.40 billion, accounting for 10.5% of ASEAN 's total trade, and Foreign direct investment 
inflows from Japan registered at US$17.4 billion and accounte d for 14.5% of total FDI inflows into 
ASEAN.  
4.126.   We look forward to further strengthening trade and investment relations with Japan, as 
both sides, along with five other dialogue partners of ASEAN intensify our pursuit of a modern, 
comprehensive, and high -quality trade agreement in the Regional Comprehensive Economic 
Partnership (RCEP) negotiations. We believe that RCEP will broaden the current economic 
engagement that has already been achieved through the existing ASEAN+1 FTAs.  
4.127.   ASEAN appreciates Japan 's acti ve role in the Multilateral Trading System, including 
participating in the regular work of the WTO as well as assuming a key role in various negotiations. 
We look forward to working closely with Japan to ensure deliverables at the 11th Ministerial 
Conferen ce in Buenos Aires.  
4.128.   Some of the ASEAN Members have submitted written questions to Japan and would like to 
thank Japan for their written responses.  
MALAYSIA  
4.129.   We also associate ourselves with the statement made earlier on behalf of ASEAN.  
4.130.   Malaysia commends the Government of Japan 's efforts to pursue its economic revival 
policy, which prioritizes policy coordination to meet the challenges facing the Japanese economy 
since its last trade policy review. We note the efforts to stren gthen its economy through the 
3 pillars which include the Japan Revitalization Strategy to stimulate the economy.  
4.131.   We recognize Japan 's deep commitment to the multilateral trading system and we look 
forward to a strong leadership from Japan and other key Members to enable WTO Members 
particularly developing ones to obtain meaningful outcomes from the Eleventh Ministerial 
conference. Japan has also played a crucial role in the WTO with its commitments and contribution 
made to the WTO 's Doha Development Agenda Global Trust Fund (DDAGTF) wh ich provides 
training to members in understanding and implementing the WTO Agreements.  
4.132.   Japan 's commitment at the WTO is also demonstrated through the expanded Information 
Technology Agreement (ITA2) and we welcome her efforts to amend the WTO Schedules und er the 
1980 Procedures, as well as swift implementation of the agreement. We also take this opportunity 
to commend Japan for being one of the early members ratifying the Trade Facilitation Agreement WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  (TFA), which entry into force on 22 February shows a stro ng commitment by Members to the 
multilateral trading system.  
4.133.   Noting the importance of transparency in the multilateral trading system, we note that 
Japan has made tremendous efforts in ensuring her notification on SPS measures have been made 
regularly and  to date there are 508, of which 97 has been made since 2015, of which has been 
made in line the relevant international standards. Such efforts demonstrate the utilization of the 
transparency mec hanism under the MTS to ensure M embers are kept to date with the trade 
regime.  
4.134.   While also pursuing Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs), at both bilateral and 
regional levels, and plurilateral trade agreements. Malaysia shares the view such EPAs and 
plurilateral agreements provides mutually beneficial economic opp ortunities to our industries and 
help reinforce the competitiveness of its industries. These progressive EPAs thus in parallel help 
bring about positive impacts on the multilateral trade system.  
4.135.   Malaysia notes that, efforts have been undertaken on structur al reforms in areas such as 
tax, competition policy, price control, corporate governance, standards and techn ical regulations 
among others. We look forward to receiving information on the latest progress on Japan 's 
structural reform initiatives.  
4.136.   While impr ovements have been made in various sectors, we have sought clarification in 
several areas such Japan 's amendment to the Customs Law and its tax regime. We also look for 
further clarification to Japan 's new efficiency standards and the requirement to meet W TO related 
international standards. These are among the additional questions that we will be submitting to 
Japan.  
4.137.   Malaysia and Japan have long standing economic ties. Although bilaterally, there was a 
decrease by 11.6% in total trade in 2016 compared to th e previous year, Japan remains as 
Malaysia 's 4th largest global trading partner. Total trade between Malaysia and Japan amounted to 
almost US$ 29 billion.  
4.138.   Japan also continues to be Malaysia 's top source of foreign direct investments since the 
1980s. As at  2015 total investments of almost US$27 billion in areas such as Chemicals & 
Chemical Products, Electronics & Electrical Products, Transport Equipment; and Rubber Products.  
4.139.   2017 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations betwe en 
Japan and Malaysia which was established in 1957. Since then, bilateral relations have been 
strengthened through the implementation of the Look East Policy, economic relations, cultural and 
people -to-people exchanges. At the Japan -Malaysia Summit Meetin g held on 16 November 2016 
Leaders reaffirm commitments to strengthen Malaysia -Japan "Strategic Partnership " that would 
continue to provide mutual benefits. With rising protectionism and anti -trade sentiments, Malaysia 
and ASEAN look forward to continue th e close partnership with Japan to keep markets open 
particularly with the roll out of the seamless trade under the ASEAN Economic Community.  
4.140.   We would like to express our appreciation to Ambassador Junichi Ihara and his delegation 
for their strong engageme nt here in Geneva.  
UKRAINE  
4.141.   Bilaterally, Japan is very important partner of Ukraine in the world economic and trade 
arena and one of the leading investors in Ukraine. Investment cooperation between our countries 
is based on bilateral Agreement for the Prom otion and Protection of Investment and covers 
financial assistance, technical cooperation and different large projects, namely, dealing with 
modernization of sewage plant, improving the energy efficiency of coal power plants etc. Japanese 
investment in Ukr aine has am ounted up to US$ 300 million. Ukraine and Japan have defined 
potential projects that can be realized in the near future: the joint production of locomotives in 
Ukraine, bridge construction across the river Pivdennyi Buh in Mykoliav city, a bypass  road around 
Kyiv, and construction of a metro line to a heavily populated Kyiv district. The projects for 
Japanese partners may include also participation in the privatization of Ukrainian ports and energy 
sector facilities.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.142.   Ukraine attaches great import ance to economic and trade cooperation between our 
countries. In 2016 , Ukrainian export  to Japan amounted to about US$ 200 m illion and Ukrainian 
import from Japan was about US$0. 5 billion . In view of above mentioned, we would like to 
underline that relation s between our countries have a great potential for growth and the basis for 
building a sound partnership.  
4.143.   Ukraine highly appreciates the cooperation with Japan across the WTO bodies and its 
support and systemic approach within functioning of organization.  
4.144.   Within this TPR exercise Ukraine has raised a number of questions on Japan 's economic 
and trade policy, covering such areas as investment regime and agreements, private -public 
partnership arrangement, authorized economic operator programme, tariff policy o n agricultural 
goods, export support and promotion, standards and other technical requirements, some issues 
regarding intellectual property rights and domestic support etc.  
4.145.   We appreciate the responses from Japanese delegation which we are studying closely.   
4.146.   In conclusion, 2017 has been announced the year of Japan in Ukraine. It is a good 
opportunity to develop and put into practice steps towards further strategic cooperation with 
Japan. Ukraine highly appreciates the efforts of Japan and personally of Mr. S hinzo Abe, Prime 
Minister of Japan, for his encouragement expressed at a summit meeting in 2016 and strong hope 
for Ukraine to become a country with resilience and sustainability; and Japan 's intent to steadily 
implement the approximately US$1.85 billion o f assistance that it has announced and thereby 
support the Ukraine 's reform efforts.  
CHILE  
4.147.   For this review, we have submitted 14 questions, and are grateful for the answers 
received.  
4.148.   Relations between Chile and Japan date back to 1897, which means that we are in fact 
commemorating 120 years of diplomatic ties, friendship and cooperation. For Chile, this 
relationship – the oldest and most institutionalized one we have with an Asian country – is solid in 
several areas: political, multilateral, cooperation and  economics and trade. We can thus state with 
satisfaction that our bilateral ties have been consolidated at the highest level through time.  
4.149.   Japan is a highly relevant player for Chile. Our bilateral relations are conducted through 
regular political meeting s, fluid trade, investment and cooperation in areas such as health, 
defence, mining, astronomy, science and technology, and, an extremely important topic for both 
countries, preventing and coping with natural disasters.  
4.150.   We attach great importance to these bilateral and triangular cooperation programmes, and 
also take a positive view of the effective work carried out by our respective cooperation agencies, 
AGCID and JICA.  
4.151.   Evidence of this integration is provided by the fact that, a few days ago, a delegation  of 
Japanese senators, members of the Special Committee on Official Development Assistance and 
Related Issues, visited Chile to learn about and evaluate on site the various cooperation and 
assistance programmes which Japan is conducting with various countr ies of the world.  
4.152.   In the area of trade, our relationship has been significantly bolstered by the Economic 
Partnership Agreement, which includes provision for free trade, the first signed by Japan with a 
country of South America and which entered into force  on 3 September  2007.  
4.153.   After 10 years of existence of our Agreement, Japan is our fourth -ranked partner for 
Chilean exports and sixth for overall trade, representing a total of US$7,134  million.  
4.154.   The contraction of international trade in recent years has als o had an impact on the figures 
for trade between Chile and Japan. It is certainly in our interest to revive, restore and expand 
trade to, for example, 2011 levels, when it reached US$12,043  million.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  4.155.   Chile has emerged as a major supplier of safe and quality  foodstuffs to Japan. We are 
leaders in supplying this demanding market with products such as wine, salmon, trout, meat and 
various fruits. We also provide large amounts of, inter alia , copper, molybdenum, wood and 
lithium.  
4.156.   Japan is one of the leading inve stors in Chile, not only in raw materials and mining, but 
also in renewable energies, water desalination, agro -industry and services.  
4.157.   Japan's cumulative investment in Chile climbed to US$10,532  million in 2015.  
4.158.   From the reports submitted, we again observe that Japan continues to be an economy that 
is outward -looking, open, competitive and geared to promoting investment.  
4.159.   As in its previous review (in 2015), we congratulate Japan on the Secretariat's finding that 
progressive improvements to the Authorized Eco nomic Operator scheme have led to a significant 
reduction in the release time for imports.  
4.160.   According to the latest study on this subject, conducted in June  2015, the release time was 
less that one minute for AEO import cargos as against 144 minutes for non -AEO imports.  
4.161.   We likewise appreciate Tokyo's efforts to revitalize its national economy based on the 
pillars of its strategy (monetary easing, fiscal stimulus and structural reforms). We are sure that, 
thanks to its methodological approach, pragmatism, pat ience, perseverance and work culture, the 
Japanese economy will recover and greater opportunities will open up for trade in competitive 
exports and imports.  
4.162.   Notwithstanding the foregoing and in spite of the Japanese government's commitments to 
its structur al reforms in areas such as agriculture, energy and healthcare, we cannot omit to draw 
attention to the fact, as pointed out in the Secretariat report, that agricultural policy in Japan uses 
a comprehensive set of policy measures which result in a relative ly high level of protection and 
support to producers for most products in that sector.  
4.163.   There is no doubt that greater liberalization will have a positive effect on competitiveness 
and that it is Japanese consumers themselves who will benefit.  
4.164.   Similarly, we  believe it should be borne in mind that of the 101 highest tariffs, 95 are not 
ad valorem , which means that the overall arithmetic mean of most favoured nation (MFN) tariffs 
applied by Japan increased from 5.8% in 2014 to 6.1% in 2016. Furthermore, it sho uld be 
mentioned that the method and process for assigning 158 tariff lines subject to tariff quotas is still 
somewhat complex.  
4.165.   Chile wishes to pursue a constructive exchange of views on all aspects of Japan's economy, 
since in terms of the economy and int ernational trade our two countries share common views on 
the importance of market liberalization for development and prosperity. We are confident that 
Japan will continue making its constructive contribution and playing a leadership role in this 
Organizati on, factors which we especially welcome with a view to achieving valuable outcomes at 
the next Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires.  
4.166.   Finally, allow me, Madam Chair, to express in this forum our gratitude to Japan for the 
assistance provided in connection  with the severe forest fires which recently hit the centre -south 
region of our country.  
SINGAPORE  
4.167.   Singapore associates with the ASEAN statement.  
4.168.   Japan is an important economic and trading partner for Singapore. In 2016, Japan was the 
8th largest trading p artner of Singapore with bilateral trade of US$47.5 billion. Bilateral investment 
flows also continue to be strong. As of end 2015, Japan was Singapore 's 2nd largest cumulative 
investor, while Singapore was Japan 's top Asian investor.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.169.   Our strong economic r elationship is underpinned by our bilateral FTA – the Agreement 
between Japan and Singapore for a New -Age Economic Partnership Agreement (JSEPA). The JSEPA 
is a key pillar and a significant milestone of Japan and Singapore 's bilateral relations. It is Japa n's 
first-ever EPA and one of Singapore 's earliest FTAs with a major trading partner. Since its entry 
into force in 2002, it has benefited business communities of both countries  through greater trade 
liberaliz ation. Singapore looks forward to working close ly with Japan to conclude a substantive 
review of the JSEPA. This will ensure that JSEPA remains relevant to changing business needs, and 
signal our continued commitment to advancing free trade.  
4.170.   Singapore welcomes Japan 's continued economic engagement in t he region. The 
ratification of the Trans -Pacific Partnership (TPP) and active participation in the ongoing Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) are strong indications of Japan 's commitment to 
closer regional economic integration. The ASEAN -Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership 
(AJCEP) has also contributed towards stronger trade and investment rel ations between ASEAN and 
Japan.  
4.171.   As the world 's third largest economy and fourth largest importer and exporter of goods, 
Japan 's economic health is vital to the global economy. Singapore notes that Japan has been 
undertaking economic reforms since 2013 and we hope that Japan will continue to stay the course 
with its reforms. From the Secretariat 's report, we note that Japan 's overall simple average ap plied 
MFN tariff rate increased from 5.8% in FY2014 to 6.1% in FY2016 due to higher average ad 
valorem equivalents of non -ad valorem  duties. We also note that the average bound rate remains 
considerably higher for agricultural products (16.7%) than for non -agricultural products (3.6%). 
We hope to see future improvements for the applied MFN tariff rate and also encourage Japan to 
continue in its efforts to liberalize its agriculture sector. We further note that Japan has submitted 
numerous notifications unde r the different WTO agreements but did not submit notifications in 
certain areas during the review period. We encourage Japan to deal with the outstanding 
notifications as soon as possible.  
4.172.   To conclude, Singapore looks forward to continuing our close coope ration with Japan to 
further the goal towards deeper and more progressive trade liberaliz ation at all levels. We 
commend the commitment of Japan to the multilateral trading system and the constructive 
contributions of Japan 's Permanent Representative Ambas sador Junichi Ihara and his able team. 
We hope to work closely with our Japanese colleagues towards a fruitful 11th Ministe rial 
Conference in Bueno Aires.  Finally we thank Japan for the timely responses to our written 
questions and wish Japan a very succes sful 13th Trade Policy Review.  
BRAZIL  
4.173.   The thirteenth Trade Policy Review of Japan is a very important exercise.  
4.174.   As the third largest world economy and fourth largest global trader, Japan plays a central 
role in the international economy. In the WTO, it has  been committed to exploring new approaches 
and issues to advance the negotiations agenda. It has also been a force for strengthening the 
multilateral trading system. A good example was the early deposit of its instrument of ratification 
of the TFA, on 1 J une 2015. At the same time, the country is also actively pursuing bilateral, 
regional and plurilateral agreements.  
4.175.   Japan 's economy regained momentum since 2015, with reforms that include monetary 
easing, fiscal stimulus and structural transformation in ar eas such as energy, healthcare and 
agriculture.  
4.176.   Agricultural reform is a core interest for Brazil. Subsidies and protection provided to 
agriculture remain significantly high when compared to other OECD countries, with two aspects of 
particular concern: sup port program mes are highly trade -distorting; and administered prices, 
particularly regarding pork and beef, are very detrimental to the interests of developing -country 
exporters, such as Brazil.  
4.177.   Furthermore, the lack of more updated notifications on domest ic support also hinders our 
ability to monitor Japan 's agricultural policies and their impact on our exports.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  4.178.   SPS measures result in high compliance costs for exporters, due to stringent restrictive 
requirements, often more rigorous than international stan dards. In this respect, the ongoing 
structural farm reform is greatly welcomed and Brazil urges Japan to continue on this path.  
4.179.   On the industrial sector, the support provided to the Mitsubishi jet project has been closely 
monitored by Brazil. This topic h as been raised, bilaterally and at the WTO, but replies provided so 
far have been vague. We take this opportunity to once again urge the Japanese government to 
provide timely and satisfactory responses to our questions and concerns.  
4.180.   On trade in goods, Jap an is currently our seventh trade partner, and the third in Asia. 
Brazil attaches highest priority to the need of diversifying our exports to Japan, still highly 
concentrated on basic products - iron ore, meat, coffee, soybeans.  
4.181.   The resumption of Brazilian  exports of thermally processed beef to Japan is a positive 
development. However, import restrictions continue to affect some operations, which were freely 
admitted before 2012. Brazil looks forward to a rapid resolution to this matter, ensuring Japanese 
consumers a broader access to high quality Brazilian beef.  
4.182.   The stock of Japanese FDI in Brazil was at US$28 billion in 2014. On the occasion of 
President Temer 's visit to Japan last year, a Cooperation Agreement for the Promotion of 
Infrastructure Investme nts was signed. Japanese investment is expected to play a key role in the 
ongoing recovery of the Brazilian economy.  
4.183.   Beyond trade and investment ties, our countries have an important cooperation agenda in 
areas such as agriculture, science and technology a nd education. In 2015 , Brazil and Japan 
celebrated 120 years of diplomatic relations. Brazil is proud of being home to the largest Japanese 
community abroad. And Japan hosts the third largest Brazilian community abroad.  
4.184.   We thank Japan for the written repli es to our questions, on issues such as GSP, SPS, 
subsidies, tariff classification and TBT. They were forwarded to our capital for examination and 
follow -up. 
GUATEMALA  
4.185.   We wish to acknowledge in this review the solid research carried out by the 
WTO Secretari at, as reflected in the report under discussion today. Its contents provide us with a 
comprehensive picture of the macroeconomic situation and the evolution of the commercial 
policies implemented by Japan over the last two years. We also take the opportuni ty to extend our 
most sincere gratitude to Ambassador Julian Braithwaite, United Kingdom Ambassador to the 
WTO, for the presentation and highly objective and thorough analysis which he has kindly shared 
with us today, in his capacity as discussant.  
4.186.   Diploma tic relations between Guatemala and Japan commenced in 1935, since when they 
have been characterized by close bonds of friendship and cooperation in the different areas of their 
respective foreign policy. In the 1970s, our countries signed agreements to st rengthen technical 
and financial cooperation, since when Japan has constituted one of the main cooperation partners 
in Guatemala. Similarly, in the 1990s, the government of Japan backed the signing of the peace 
agreements in Guatemala and intensified its s upport in order to contribute to economic 
development and consolidating democracy in our country.  
4.187.   In terms of commercial exchanges, Japan is an important trading partner for Guatemala. 
In 2016, trade flows between the two countries exceeded US$475  million,  a 25% increase on the 
total trade one decade earlier in 2006. The main products Guatemala exports to Japan are coffee, 
bananas, sesame seed and nickel. In the opposite direction, the main products imported from 
Japan are vehicles and transportation equipm ent, machines and mechanical apparatus for 
electronic use, iron and steel.  
4.188.   From the trade policy report before us today, we note that despite a contraction in real 
GDP in 2014 and a continued sluggish economic performance, the Japanese authorities have tak en 
significant steps to reverse this pattern, such as measures to stimulate private consumption and 
fiscal changes to improve the country's public finances and boost competitiveness. The pick of the WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  improvements implemented in the period under review inclu de the measures to attract more 
inflows of foreign direct investment (FDI), the revision of the Anti -Monopoly Act, which introduced 
a new appeal process, and the amendment of the government procurement system. Despite these 
improvements, considerable chall enges persist, such as the need to further open up its agricultural 
market and to strengthen measures to pursue the process of revitalizing its economy.  
4.189.   We recognize the significant efforts and achievements made by Japan during the review 
period. We are al so grateful for the answers to the questions Guatemala has asked during the 
course of this review.  
4.190.   We hope to go on strengthening our important trade links, and wish the Japanese 
delegation a successful conclusion to its country's trade policy review.  
CHINA 
4.191.   Japan is the world 's fourth -largest exporter and importer for both trade in goods and trade 
in services. Given its weight in global trade, Japan 's economic and trade policies and measures 
undoubtedly have a significant impact on the rest of the world.  
4.192.   China notes that Japan 's economic performance remained sluggish during the review 
period despite its continuous implementation of the three pillar strategy of monetary easing, fiscal 
stimulus, and structural reforms. China is also aware of the three new arr ows being released 
towards the three targets. China hopes these policy developments would really help Japan 's 
economy recovery, and inject vitality into the world economy.  
4.193.   Japan is an important M ember of the WTO. China highly commends Japan 's commitment to  
strengthening and maintaining the multilateral trading system, which forms the basis of global 
trade, and regards it as an important pillar of Japan 's trade policy. China welcomes the progress 
made by Japan in aligning its industrial standards to correspo nding international ones, and hopes 
that Japan will continue to review the rationality of its regulatory measures on sound scientific 
basis. However, it is worth noting that the ITA expansion negotiation, which was concluded during 
MC10 in December 2014, i s still not ratified by the Japanese Parliament ti ll today. We hope the 
Japanese G overnment could take all effort to accelerate this process.  
4.194.   Japan is our important neighbour and trading partner. The economic interdependence 
between the two countries is g rowing deeper. In 2016, China is Japan 's largest trading partner and 
source of imports, while Japan is China 's 5th largest trading partner and an important source of 
investment. 11 rounds of negotiations have been conducted regarding China -Japan - Korea FTA , 
and the three sides are still moving forward steadily in this regard. That said, there are still a 
range of problems hampering further development of our bilateral trade and economic ties. I 
would like to take this opportunity to name a few of them.  
4.195.   First of all, Japan has broken its commitment undertaken in Article 15 of China 's Protocol 
of Accession to the WTO, by announcing that it will continue using the illegal "surrogate country " 
methodology in anti -dumping cases against China. This is a violation o f WTO rules, which will not 
only damage Japan 's international reputation, but also diminish global faith in the multilateral 
trading system. China urges Japan to correct this without any delay, and fulfil its commitments in 
a comprehensive and thorough man ner. 
4.196.   Secondly, according to our industries, Japan maintains a strict inspection regime on 
imported food. Sometimes the scope of companies and products subject to inspection is much 
boarder than needed, and sometimes inspection is implemented in a discretio nary manner. These 
unnecessary measures have delayed customs clearance, and therefore affect the freshness of 
imported food products. China hopes that Japan could streamline and accelerate its inspection 
procedures for medium -and-low-risk food products, av oid "order inspection " requirements on 
companies with no bad record in the past; and also enhance bilateral cooperation on food 
certification with other countries.  
4.197.   The rest of questions and comments from China have been submitted in writing before this 
review meeting, and we would appreciate Japan 's efforts in providing replies to them.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  NORWAY  
4.198.   Norway thanks Japan for its responses to our written questions well in advance of the 
meeting. It is useful to have the possibility to ask follow -up questions if nece ssary.  
4.199.   Although far apart geographically, Japan and Norway have a close economic relationship. 
In 2016, Japan was Norway 's second largest trading partner in Asia. Both imports and exports 
have increased from 2015 to 2016. Trade in services between Norway and Japan is considerable, 
and a substantial proportion is in the maritime sector.  
4.200.   Japan is the world 's third largest economy, and Norway therefore follows closely Japan 's 
economic reform process, which we believe can give important results if followed th rough. We pay 
particular attention to energy market reforms and efforts aimed at better inclusion of women in 
the labor market. The latter is important in itself as well as in light of the aging and declining 
population, which is contributing to the sluggi sh economic performance in Japan during the period 
under review.   
4.201.   Japan is a major maritime global player with one of the world 's largest fleets. Maritime 
transport is an indispensable facilitator for global trade and economic growth. Norway believes 
better access to and supply of maritime transport services on open and equal market conditions 
are beneficial to all WTO Members, and crucial to economic growth. This causation ought to be 
reflected properly as commitments in schedules of WTO Members. We appre ciate that Japan has 
been a constructive partner in working for more open and transparent conditions for international 
maritime transport services, and look forward to continuing our common efforts in this area.  
4.202.   Norway is pleased with the broad internatio nal dialogue in the International Working Group 
(IWG) concerning a possible agreement on export credits. Competition among exporters should be 
based on the quality and price of the offered goods and services, rather than on the most 
favorable financial ter ms and conditions.  
4.203.   Norway appreciates Japan 's efforts and work on the ship sector guidelines in the IWG. We 
are looking forward to continuing the dialogue with Japan on broad international guidelines on 
matters such as premium rates, interest rates and tr ansparency.  
4.204.   Norwegian seafood, in particular fresh salmon and mackerel, has become an important 
part of Japanese food culture. Japanese companies play an increasingly larger role in the marine 
produce value chain. This underlines our common interest in an open and transparent market with 
predictable rules for trade in fish and seafood.  
4.205.   We are pleased that Japan actively engages in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies to 
implement Sustainable Development Goal 14.6 in the WTO. We share Japan 's assessment that 
good, sustainable resource management is essential. At the same time, we need to join forces to 
tackle, as mandated, those fisheries subsidies that lead to overcapacity and overfishing as well as 
eliminate subsidies that contribute to illegal, unrepor ted and unregulated fishing.  
4.206.   Norway thanks Japan for its leading role in the ITA II negotiations, and appreciates that 
Japan foresaw to implement all the tariff cuts by 1 July last year. It is disappointing that this has 
not yet happened. Implementation of  commitments is an essential part of the multilateral trading 
system. We understand that the question is now before the Diet. Norway urges Japan to take all 
possible steps to achieve swift implementation of the tariff elimination.  
4.207.   Norway is working closel y with Japan in the WTO. We commend Japan 's staunch defense of 
the multilateral trading system with its open, predictable and enforceable rules and commitments 
by all. We appreciate the role Japan has played and continues to play in bringing the multilater al 
trading system forward as well as its non -wavering commitment to battle protectionism. As history 
has taught us: protectionism is not the answer to economic insecurity. We need Japan, and others, 
to take glob al leadership on trade.  
4.208.   Japan has increased i ts focus on bilateral and regional trade agreements. We appreciate 
that this approach is a complement to Japan 's substantial engagement within the WTO, and agree 
that FTAs should act as building blocks and inspiration for further multilateral rulemaking.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.209.   Norway would like to give credit to Japan for its constructive and positive contributions in 
both ongoing and recent multilateral and plurilateral negotiations within the WTO. A further proof 
of Japan 's commitment to the multilateral trading system is the role taken on by Japan 's 
ambassador Ihara as the new chair of the Dispute Settlement Body.  
THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.210.   Since its last review in 2015, Japan has put in place an ambitious programme of reforms 
designed t o overcome deflation and to revitalize its economy after more than two decades of 
relatively unsatisfactory performance. These efforts are greatly appreciated, and if they succeed 
will boost domestic growth to the benefit of both Japan and the entire globa l trading community as 
well. We are fully aware that implementing these reforms and measures is no easy task, but 
despite the major challenges that remain, we expect Japan to pursue the good work undertaken so 
far. 
4.211.   At the bilateral level, our people have f or long enjoyed a very strong and comprehensive 
trading relationship with Japan. It is not only our fourth -largest export market, but Japan is also 
an important strategic partner for us on a number of key trade and investment issues, as well as 
being one o f our major sources of inward direct investment. We look forward to continuing to work 
closely with the Government of Japan to develop and grow our bilateral trade and investment 
cooperation in the future. And furthermore, we value our close cooperation wi th Japan across the 
whole spectrum of our WTO work here in Geneva, particularly in the areas of ITA expansion, the 
Trade in Services Agreement negotiations, and the Environmental Goods Agreement.  
4.212.   I would like to thank the Japanese delegation for the promp t replies we received last week 
to the written questions that we provided in advance. Our questions concerned a number of 
different areas, including regional and preferential agreements, intellectual property rights, 
geographical indications, as well as Ja pan's trade policies in the energy and telecommunications 
sectors. We are currently examining the replies with great interest with basically a positive 
attitude.  
4.213.   As far as this trade policy review is concerned, overall we are pleased to note that the 
Japan ese economy  remains open and transparent. There are, however, some elements that we 
believe merit further attention.  
4.214.   On tariffs, for example, we appreciate that 98.2% of Japan 's total tariff lines are bound, 
and that the difference between the average bou nd MFN tariff (5.9%) and the average applied 
MFN tariff (6.1%) in 2016 was negligible, thus reflecting a high degree of predictability in Japan 's 
tariff regime. However, the simple average applied MFN tariffs for footwear and headgear (32.6%) 
and prepared foods (18.3%) were relatively high, and international tariff peaks still applied to 
7.4% of all Japan 's tariff lines.  
4.215.   In addition, out of all the lines that are subject to quotas, 158 are out -of-quota tariffs 
whose average rates differ considerably, and t he quota allocation method and process remains 
somewhat intricate to say the least. Japan therefore has a relatively complex tariff structure, 
perhaps creating an impression of vagueness for business operators, which is why we would 
encourage improvements and simplification in these aspects.  
4.216.   To conclude, I would just like to highlight the importance of Japan 's active contribution 
within the WTO. We hope that in the context of the WTO 's current agenda, Japan will continue to 
play a constructive and leading role. Its typical pragmatism, patience and perseverance are the 
kind of attributes likely to be much needed and appreciated in the completion of the upcoming 
work programme, if the MC 11 is to be the success that we all want it to be.  
4.217.   On behalf of the Sep arate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, I wish 
Japan a successful review. And I also congratulate Ambassador Ihara to take the DSB chair and 
the forthcoming GC chair. These two important chairmanships mirror the significant achievement  
of Japan 's mission in WTO in the past several decades.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  NEW  ZEALAND  
4.218.   New Zealand welcomes this opportunity to participate in the  trade policy review of Japan. 
New Zealand is fortunate to have Japan as one of its longest standing and most imp ortant trading 
partners. Our trade is highly complementary and forms the basis of a strong, bilateral economic 
relationship, which contin ues to develop into new areas. Given this background, New Zealand 
takes a close interest in Japan 's trade policy and ongoing reform ag enda.  
4.219.   New Zealand welcomes Japan 's policies fo r economic revival and liberaliz ation and 
congratulates Japan on its decision to undertake such far reaching reforms, including recent 
reform efforts in the areas of agriculture, labour and ren ewable energy.  Under Abenomics, 
embedded economic structures are being re formed with the aim of revitalizing the Japanese 
economy. This i s clearly a difficult process. The end goal however should produce tangible 
economic benefits for both Japan and its international econo mic partners.  
4.220.   New Zealand has appreciated Japan 's complimentary attention to regional and bilateral 
trade negotiations as well as the multilateral trading system and applauds Japan 's leadership on 
seeking to counter current trends towar ds protectionism. We congratulate Japan in becoming the 
first Trans Pacific Partnership signatory to notify ratification of the agreement in January 2017 and 
appreciate Japan 's important leadership role in seeking to advance TPP. In the Regional 
Comprehensive Economic Partner ship negotiations, New Zealand stands with Japan in its 
determination to conclude a high qu ality, comprehensive agreement. The successful realiz ation of 
high quality trade agreements offers participating countries such as New Zealand and  Japan deep 
economi c benefits. Such positive liberaliz ation initiatives should also give momentum to our work 
here in Geneva and support global trade reform rather than be seen as a direct alternative.  
4.221.   New Zealand values our cooperation with Japan acr oss the work of the WTO.  While we 
inevitably do not always see eye to eye on all issues, Japan 's constructive approach in both the 
regular work of the WTO and in the negotiations has helped to move the work of the Organization 
forward. In particular, we valued Japan 's fundamental  role in the expansion of the Information 
Technology Agreement and associated negotiation, and urge Japan to speedily implement its 
outstanding obligations under this agreement.   
4.222.   New Zealand also encourages Japan to intensify its e fforts on agricultural r eform. 
Population decline in rural areas, the increasing average age of farm ers, and continued high 
subsidiz ation of agricultural sectors all paint a worrying picture for the future of Japanese 
agriculture, as many in Japan have highlighted.  At the same ti me, Japan produces high quality 
agricultural products for which there is a h igh demand in premium markets. New Zealand 
commends Japan 's aim to reorient its sector towards competitive high -value export and 
encourages intensification of agricultural reform e fforts to achieve that goal.   
4.223.   We welcome Japan 's efforts to reform land tenure and cooperative structures, as a means 
of removing some significant constraint s on agricultural productivity.  The challenge is to create an 
environment where the agricultural i ndustry can apply the same ingenuity and efficiency for which 
Japan 's industrial and manufacturing se ctors have become so renowned. The lesson from Japan 's 
success in other industries is that exposing agriculture to market mechanisms and global 
competition  can spur competitiveness and innovation.  This would reduce the fiscal burden of 
agricultural support, raise incomes in rural areas, and turn agriculture into a competitive growth 
sector that can contribute to the wider economy and compete on the global st age. 
4.224.   New Zealand has a long record of engagement with Japan in primary industries and 
continues to benefit from long -term high quality Japanese in vestment in our primary sector.  As 
Japan continues to progress agriculture sector reform and reorient the sect or towards export, New 
Zealand seek s to deepen its collaboration. Our two Prime Ministers ' commitment to a "Partnership 
in Food and Agriculture " in July 2014 has already borne fruit, and we feel there is still more we can 
do together.  
4.225.   Japan is also a sign ificant global player in the fisheries sector, as an importer, a consumer, 
a fishing nation, and in terms of the subsidi es it provides to its sector. We therefore look forward 
to continuing to work with Japan, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 14.6 , to establish 
effective WTO fisheries s ubsidies prohibitions at MC11. Like in the agriculture sector, such subsidy WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  reforms would make tangible improvements to the competitiveness of domestic fisheries as well as 
contribute to global sustainability outcome s. 
4.226.   We commend Japan 's commitment t o economic reform and revival. As one of the world 's 
largest economies, Japan carries a particular leadership  responsibility within the WTO.  We 
welcome the contribution Japan has made to the multilateral trading system to date, and we look 
forward to benefiting further from the exercise of Japanese leadership in the lead up to the 11th 
WTO Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires.  
PARAGUAY  
4.227.   As stated in the report, the Japanese economy had to be content with a subdued recovery , 
but we are sure that the improvement in employment and incomes will enable Japan to move in 
the right direction.  
4.228.   Although real GDP shrank by 0.03% in 2014, and despite the adverse impact on the 
Japanese economy of natural disasters and an aging and decli ning population, through its efforts 
the government has succeeded in increasing trade in goods and services, making the country the 
world's fourth -largest exporter and importer of goods and services.  
4.229.   Indeed, the government responded to a complex state of a ffairs with an interesting 
package of measures aimed above all at consolidating public finances, such as monetary easing, 
fiscal stimulus and structural reforms, not forgetting efforts to increase foreign direct investment, 
including simplifying regulation s and administrative procedures relevant to foreign companies and 
enhancing the educational environment for foreign children.  
4.230.   Significant challenges nevertheless remain. We believe, for example, that imports of 
agricultural products are still suffering on account of a high average bound tariff rate in 
comparison with non -agricultural products, as well as specific market support measures. It is a 
matter of concern for my country that the level of aid and protection granted to agriculture in 
Japan continues t o be high in comparison with other OECD countries.  
4.231.   We should also like to take this opportunity to request more information on the subsidies 
and assistance programmes, in particular to ascertain whether they have been notified to the 
WTO.  
4.232.   Paraguay values J apan's commitment to the multilateral trading system, both in the 
establishment of rules pertaining to free trade and through its participation in the Dispute 
Settlement Body, as well as its commitment to Aid for Trade, the trade development initiatives 
undertaken by Japan or the Generalized System of Preferences which allows preferential treatment 
for the LDCs.  
4.233.   My delegation has submitted some specific questions on trade in services. We are grateful 
for the replies, which we shall study very carefully.  
4.234.   My delegation appreciates the holding, in May  2016, of the Third Dialogue to Strengthen 
the Economic Relationship between Mercosur and Japan, as well as the excellent bilateral relations 
between our two countries, not only at the economic level, but also poli tically, socially and 
culturally. During the period under review, trade flows in both directions increased by some 24%. 
Imports from Japan reached over US$200  million (mainly in the vehicles and electronic apparatus 
sector) and exports approximately US$80  million (mainly soya).  
4.235.   In concluding, it is worth pointing out that Paraguay and Japan share the same views 
regarding the need to strengthen the multilateral trading system, as well as the firm determination 
to obtain tangible results at the next Ministeri al Conference in Buenos Aires.  
4.236.   I would like to offer renewed congratulations to those leading this review and to the 
delegates from the Permanent Mission of Japan in Geneva for their invariably active involvement in 
the different areas of the WTO's work.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  ECUADOR  
4.237.   We are participating in this trade policy review with particular interest, in view of the 
political, economic, trade and investment relations that prevail between Japan and Ecuador.  
4.238.   It is worth mentioning that we recently had the honour to host in Ecuador the 
Parliamentary Vice -Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr  Shunshuke Takei, who underlined the 
Japanese government's desire to strengthen dialogue and improve political relations between our 
countries. He also indicated that Japan will contin ue supporting the process of reconstructing 
regions of Ecuador hit by the earthquake of April  2016.  
4.239.   On that occasion, the Ecuadoran authorities underscored the importance of Japan's 
technical cooperation and urged that it be reinforced, especially through knowledge and 
technology transfer. They also emphasized the need to promote trade, which is being hampered by 
very strict regulations, particularly for food products.  
4.240.   In regard to the Secretariat report, we take note that Japan's economic performance has 
been sluggish in the light of persistently low inflation and an aging and declining population. The 
country has also been hit by natural disasters in recent years, putting increased pressure on public 
finances.  
4.241.   It should be mentioned that Japan is the world 's fourth -largest exporter and importer of 
goods and services. Nevertheless, Japan's GDP growth performance during the review period 
remains subdued. In 2014, the economy contracted by 0.03% on an annual basis; and in 2015, 
albeit positive, growth stood at  0.5%. The factors that may have affected growth are, inter alia , 
weak private consumption, weak global demand and falling commodity prices.  
4.242.   We note that the Bank of Japan led efforts to boost private consumption through 
quantitative and qualitative moneta ry easing with a negative interest rate. Furthermore, structural 
reforms have been launched to encourage labour force participation and strengthen the business 
sector.  
4.243.   Similarly, we note that measures were adopted in 2015 to attract foreign businesses, suc h 
as enhancing the educational environment for foreign children.  
4.244.   It is important to point out also that Japan is party to 15 regional trade agreements 
currently in force, and during the review period it signed the Trans -Pacific Partnership. Japan is 
curren tly in negotiation with China, the Republic of Korea, the European Union, Canada, Colombia, 
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) partners, and Turkey.  
4.245.   Ecuador acknowledges that Japan has systems in place to expedite the release and 
clearance of goods, and has mutual recognition arrangements (MRAs) on AEO programmes with 
some of its trading partners.  
4.246.   We also observe that Japan has amended its Anti -Monopoly Act (AMA), introducing a new 
appeal procedure putting a court in charge of reviewing admi nistrative orders.  
4.247.   We likewise highlight the changes made to the intellectual property rights framework, 
including, among others, the implementation of stand -alone legislation on geographical indications 
for foods, beverages and agricultural and marine pro ducts, and stronger protection of trade 
secrets.  
4.248.   Ecuador further stresses that Japanese agriculture continues to be highly protected by 
tariffs; quotas; market price support measures; and transfers based on outputs and inputs, which 
can potentially distort  production and trade.  
4.249.   The services sector is a key component in Japan's economy, contributing a large 72% of 
GDP. This sector is broadly open to competition, except in selected areas such as certain 
broadcasting and medical services.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.250.   To conclude, we would  like to thank the delegation of Japan in advance for its answers to 
the questions we have asked concerning certain aspects of its trade policy, which will provide 
important inputs for strengthening bilateral relations in the area of foreign trade.  
INDONES IA 
4.251.   Indonesia associates itself with the ASEAN statement delivered by the Permanent 
Representative of Malaysia to the WTO.  
4.252.   We are pleased to be here today for participating in The Trade Policy Review of Japan. For 
many years, both countries have played crit ical roles in the multilateral, regional and bilateral 
trading system. In regional context, currently Indonesia and Japan are negotiating Regional 
Comprehensive  Economic Partnership (RCEP) along with other ASEAN members and 5 partner 
countries, namely Aust ralia, New Zealand, China, India, and the Republic of Korea. Furthermore, 
until today, I ndonesia only has one bilateral  Economic Partnership  Agreement, and it is 
Indonesia -Japan EPA.  
4.253.   In light of the trade policy review which we are commencing today, we not e with positivity 
that Japan is a highly integrated economic unit with common policies and laws covering most trade 
and trade related areas.  
4.254.   We also appreciate Japan 's valuable contributions in the WTO forum, including for this 
Trade Policy Review.  
4.255.   Please allow us to share how Indonesia and Japan have been engaging a mutual trade 
relationship. Japan has constantly become one of Indonesia 's most important trading partner for 
many years, although the value of total non -oil trade between the two countries sh owed a 
decrease of 8.9% per annum during the last three years (2014 -2016).  
4.256.   In this regard, we look forward to jointly conduct a General Review of the Indonesia -Japan 
Economic Partnership Agreement for the benefit of both countries, in accordance to the thr ee main 
pillars of the Agreement: market access, facilitation, and cooperation. We believe that the joint 
review is the best way to increase trade performance of Japan and Indonesia.  
4.257.   Total investment of Japan in Indonesia during 2016 was recorded at US$ 5.4 billion and 
ranked as the 2nd largest foreign investment. The investment was allocated in over 3300 projects. 
We highly appreciate Japan 's contribution to the increase of foreign investment, as well as to the 
development of infrastructure and industry in Indonesia.  
4.258.   Beside the strong and positive economic ties between Indonesia and Japan that have been 
achieved during the last decade, we still find some unnecessary barriers to trade in Japan. 
Therefore, we hope that, through this Trade Policy Review, those issues can be addressed.  
4.259.   In this regard, we have submitted a number of written questions related to our concerns 
on Japan trade and trade -related policies and practices. We thank the Government of Japan for the 
responses provided to these advanced questio ns. We look forward to a follow -up communication 
with Japan, to seek further clarification to the answers provided.  
4.260.   Finally, I would like to conclude our remarks by expressing, once again, our profound 
appreciation to the delegation of Japan for their har d work. Our appreciation also goes to 
Ambassador Junichi Ihara, the Permanent Representative of Japan to the WTO. Indonesia wishes 
Japan every success in its thirteenth TPR.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.261.   Japan is one of Russia 's largest trading partners. Over the yea rs the Russian Federation 
has developed broad, deep and robust bilateral cooperation with Japan, spanning vast economic, 
trade and investment areas.  
4.262.   We would like to highlight some of trade and investment measures that might be 
important for enhancing our bilateral cooperation. As such, Russia welcomes the fact that in June WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  2015 Japan abolished Wood use points program (WUPP). We would like to continue to receive 
information regarding Japan 's plans to implement similar programs in future.  
4.263.   The Russian Federat ion takes note of Japan 's answers to our questions concerning its 
investment regime, in particular with regards to the sectors that are subject to restrictions and/or 
prohibitions for foreign investors as well as those where incentives to foreign investors  are 
provided by the Government of Japan. We are looking forward to continue the exchange of 
information on this issue.  
4.264.   Russia has also submitted a number of questions regarding Japans ' intellectual property 
rights, agricultural policy and sanitary and phy tosanitary measures that are of particular interest to 
us. We have received written answers and are studying them carefully.  
4.265.   We have also sent several follow -up questions on different aspects of Japanese foreign 
trade regime. In particular , we would apprec iate it if Japan could elaborate on its plans in respect 
of lifting a ban on imports of poultry from Russia that was imposed by Japan as far back as 2005.  
4.266.   To conclude, we would like to thank the delegation of Japan, the Secretar iat and of course 
our esteem ed discussant, for their hard work and wish our Japanese partners a successful trade 
policy review.  
INDIA  
4.267.   With a nominal GDP of US$ 4.121 trillion in 2015 and being the world 's fourth largest 
exporter and importer of goods and services, Japan is amongst the  key drivers of the global 
economy. We note from the Secretariat 's report that during the period under review Japan 's 
economic performance remained sluggish due to various factors including persistently low inflation, 
pressure on public spending due to var ious factors and increase d borrowing by the Government. 
To address the challenges Japan has undertaken a series of measures including the three policy 
strategy launched in 2013 which consists of a bold monetary policy; a flexible fiscal  policy and 
structur al reforms.  While Japan 's economy contracted in 2014 it registered a positive growth in 
2015 a nd first two quarters of 2016. We commend the Japanese Government for the structural 
reforms aimed at boosting economic growth, encouraging labour force participa tion and improving 
Japan 's corporate governance framework.  
4.268.   India and Japan share centuries old ties of friendship and civilization  linkages.  In recent 
years, the relationship has been elevated to a Global and Strategic partnership which is 
multifaceted, su bstantive and deep.  Regular high level exchanges take place between both 
countries.  
4.269.   Deepening trade and economic relations is a key pilla r of our strategic partnership.  The 
bilateral trade betwe en India and Japan stood at US$14.51 billion in 2015 -16. The I ndia-Japan 
Comprehensive Partnership Agreement which came to force in 2011 is one of our most 
comprehensive agreements covering goods, services, investments, IPRs, movement of natural 
persons and other related areas. In various surveys including the one co nducted by JBIC, India 
has been consistently ranked amongst the most attractive destin ations for Japanese companies. 
The presence of Japanese companies and investments into India has continued to grow steadily 
and cumulative FDI fro m Japan into India stood  at US$20.96 billion till March 2016. Japan is also 
an important partner for our flagship infrastructure projects including the Delhi -Mumbai Industrial 
Corridor, the Western -dedicated Freight Corridor and the Chennai -Bengaluru Industrial Corridor.  
4.270.   In terms  of its trade policy , while Japan is an open  economy the Secretariat r eport 
mentions that since the last review the regulatory regime of SPS and TBT measur es of Japan 
remains unchanged. The agriculture sector also remains highly protected with some of the highest 
import tarif fs and specific market support.  
4.271.   We thank the Japanese delegation for the replies provided to some o f the questions we had 
raised. These would be reviewed by my authorities. However, I wish to underline some specific 
concerns which under mine the tremendous potential of our bila teral economic relations.  The 
regulatory regime including technical regulations, standards and SPS measures which in many 
cases are more stringent than international standards continue to impact the agricultura l exports WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  from India to Japan. The stringent maximum residual levels (MRL 's) for agricultural chemicals, 
chemical products, additives for food products etc. are major entry barriers and a dd to costs for 
our exporters. We would urge Japan to review the standards  and measures to improve the market 
access for Indian exporters by harmoniz ing the standards to Codex level.  Indian pharmaceutical 
companies also continue to face difficulties in accessing the Japanese market due to the stringent 
and cumbersome regulatory framework and requirement to form joint ven tures with Japanese 
companies. In the IT services market , the Keiretsu model of Japan makes it extremely difficult for 
Indian IT firms to approach customers directly, despite their compe titive strength in the sect or. We 
request Japan to look into both these areas to simplify the regulatory framework which is 
consistent with int ernational standard and norms. The other issues of concern for us include the 
Mutual Recognition agreements on accountancy and Nursing servi ces despite being part of CEPA, 
access for Indian companies in the insurance sector in Japan and procedural visa related is sues for 
Indian professionals. We hope Japan will comprehensively look into all these issues expeditiously.  
4.272.   Before  I conclude , I wish  to highlight the vast potential for further strengthening the trade 
and investment ties between both countries, given the complementarities an d natural affinities we 
share. We look forward to working closely with the authorities of Japan in further expand ing our 
economic ties for mutual benefit and wish the delegation of Japan a productive and successful TPR.  
THAILAND  
4.273.   In starting off, Thailand would like to associate itself with ASEAN 's statement delivered by 
the Malaysia .   
4.274.   Japan, has through the years be en a close and important trade partner for Thailand. In 
2016, the Japan was Thailand 's 2nd largest trading partner in the world, with trade value of 
US$51.3 billion. In the same year Japan was Thailand 's 3rd largest export destination with total 
exports va lued at US$20.4 billion, with Electrical Machineries, Processed food, Automobiles and  
Rubber being the key products.  Import wise, Japan remains our second largest source of imports 
with a value of US$30.9 billion, though we note that imports from Japan has  been steadily 
declining in the past few years.  
4.275.   Although there has been little change in terms of trade and investment policies since the 
previous review two years ago, we are pleased to note Japan 's continued efforts to improve its 
customs procedures, po sitive approach to investment promotion, openness to trade in services, 
and its restraint towards resorting to contingency measures.  
4.276.   Nevertheless, Thailand also note that, despite improvements, Japan 's protection in the 
agricultural sector remains high com pared to other OECD countries, both in the form of import 
tariffs and domestic support.  
4.277.   Japan has always been an immense contributor to the WTO, both in the regular work and 
in various negotiations. We hope that Japan will continue to play a leading role as we push for a 
substantially meaningful package in MC 11 in Buenos Aires, especially in Agriculture.  
4.278.   In this review, Thailand submitted quite a number of questions to Japan, covering the 
policies and measures of our interests such as Agricultural polici es and support programmes, the 
termination of production quotas for rice under the Production Adjustment Programme, investment 
regimes, and trade in services in various sectors. We thank Japan for the responses provided, for 
which we will study carefully w ith great interest.  
4.279.   In conclusion, Thailand would like to express its appreciation to the Japanese delegation 
for today 's presentation. We are thankful for the cooperation with Japan in every level, including 
the close working relationship between our two Missions here in Geneva.  
ARGENTINA  
4.280.   The Argentine Republic is extremely interested in the economic environment in Japan. We 
appreciate the approach Japan has adopted in recent years to halt deflation. Even when measures 
such as increasing the consumption t ax rate had a depressing effect on GDP in 2014, the adoption 
of this type of policy demonstrates Japan's commitment to taking tangible measures to improve its WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  economic indicators. These policies have had an impact on its economic growth, as shown by the 
fact that GDP rose from a rate of -0.5% in 2011 to +0.5% in 2015.  
4.281.   Nevertheless, translating these measures into tangible results in order to exit deflation and 
revitalize the national economy has proved challenging for Japan, not only on account of the 
international economic environment but also owing to the natural disasters that have hit the 
country. This makes its determination to implement structural reforms having a practical impact 
on its population, such as stabilizing the size of the labour force by b oosting the participation of 
women and older people, all the more commendable. We hope that measures of this kind will 
continue to raise business and consumer confidence and will have the desired effect in increasing 
GDP. This is a challenge which Japan is  addressing through explicit policies geared to progressively 
building an open economy and creating a legal framework to promote and develop investment in 
the country.  
4.282.   It is laudable that Japan, as well as consolidating liberalization of the economy, is al so 
rolling out a set of programmes for economic and fiscal revitalization, including economic 
measures designed, inter alia , to prevent natural disasters, and the adoption of measures to 
support small and medium -sized businesses and local communities. We h ope that measures such 
as these, as well as the efforts under way to increase the minimum wage by 3% annually, or the 
plans to promote dynamic engagement of all citizens in the economy, will help achieve the social 
welfare objectives that Japan has set its elf. 
4.283.   Our country regards in a positive light Japan's efforts to supplement the multilateral 
trading system with bilateral and regional trade agreements. These efforts are important when one 
considers that Japan is the world's fourth -largest exporter and im porter of both goods and 
services. We are pleased that in 2016 it updated its Customs Law, as part of an effort to 
modernize its legislation and bring greater transparency, which are goals we work towards within 
the WTO. We are confident that this will hav e a positive impact in attracting greater foreign 
investment, as Japan intends. We hope that these trade liberalization policies may be extended to 
sectors of key interest for Argentina, such as agriculture, which remains highly protected by import 
tariffs  that are among the highest in the world, in addition to the application of other specific 
market support measures.  
4.284.   Argentina has submitted questions to Japan relating to its trade policies, for example on its 
system of unbound tariffs for fisheries produc ts (fish, crustaceans, seaweed), petroleum oils, and 
wood and articles thereof. We thank it in advance for the Japanese Government's answers, which 
we will study in detail.  
4.285.   The Argentine Republic wishes to continue working with Japan to deepen our bilatera l ties, 
in particular in the areas of agriculture, science, technology and health.  
4.286.   To conclude, we reiterate how much we appreciate this renewed opportunity to exchange 
points of view and comments on the trade policies and practices of Japan, and would lik e to draw 
attention, once again, to the importance of this exercise in transparency. We wish the Japanese 
authorities a successful conclusion to this review.  
MONGOLIA  
4.287.   We thank the delegation of Japan for submitting the replies to our questions on Japan 's ad 
valorem  equivalents (AVEs) of non -ad valorem  duties.  
4.288.   The 13th Trade Policy Review of Japan provides us a good opportunity to look at the 
current trade, economic and investment policies of Japan, a country which is a long -standing 
major trading and econom ic partner of Mongolia that has continuously supported our transition to 
a market economy as the main aid donor.  
4.289.   Mongolia commends Japan 's commitment to trade liberalization as well as its constructive 
and active role in the multilateral trading system. We  appreciate Japan 's continued support for Aid 
for Trade (AfT) initiatives as well as for the "One Village, One Product " movement, aimed at 
promoting the development of local economies and connecting them into the global value chains.   WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.290.   Mongolia has recentl y established its first free trade agreement (EPA) with Japan, which 
has entered into force in June, 2016. We believe that the effective implementation of this 
agreement would provide an important impetus to further deepening the bilateral trade and 
econom ic cooperation with Japan - our strategic partner and one of the largest foreign investors in 
Mongolia.  
4.291.   Taking this opportunity, I would like to express our appreciation to the delegation of Japan 
and the Secretariat for their hard work in preparing for t his TPR.  
KENYA  
4.292.   Japan remains one of the key drivers of the global economy. It is the world 's fourth -largest 
exporter and importer of goods and services, and the third largest economy in the world. Japan 's 
trade and economic performance would therefore, hav e an impact on global economic growth.  
4.293.   Kenya takes note of the continued challenges faced in the economic performance of Japan 
during the review period. We are encouraged to note that Japan has put in place steps aimed at 
implementing structural reforms i n a number of areas with a view to addressing the p rolonged 
deflation and revitaliz ing the economy.  
4.294.   Kenya therefore welcomes the efforts by the government of Japan to revitalize the 
economy, as outlined in the Revitalization Growth Strategy. We also note t hat Japan has 
introduced a number of economic plans aimed at improving the country 's public finances, debt 
position, and enhancing the competitiveness of the economy.  
4.295.   On trade policy objectives, we note that Japan has continued to promote the multilateral  
trading system while at the same time pursuing bilateral and regional trade agreements. We share 
Japan 's view that while the WTO should continue to play a role in promoting economic growth and 
development, bilateral and regional trade agreements equally p lay an important complimentary 
role.  
4.296.   Japan has been a strong supporter of the WTO multilateral trading system as 
demonstrated through active participation in both the regular work of the WTO and the 
negotiations. In the context of the current negotiations  in particular, Japan has been at forefront in 
injecting momentum into the discussions through submission of proposals in various areas. We 
also wish to express our appreciation to Japan for providing assistance in support of the 
participation of developin g and least developed countries in the activities of the WTO.  
4.297.   At bilateral level, Kenya and Japan enjoy a cordial relations a nd longstanding economic 
ties. The relation is enhanced by regular high -level interactions between the two countries. Kenya 
is one of the major recipients of Japan 's Official Development Assistance (ODA) in Sub -Saharan 
Africa.  
4.298.   We appreciate Japan 's commitment to the Tokyo International Conference on African 
Development (TICAD) which has been the main forum for promoting high -level po licy dialogue 
between African leaders and their partners, and mobilizing support for African -owned development 
initiatives. Kenya was privileged to host the TICAD VI which was held in Nairobi on 27th and 28th 
August last year. It was the first time the Con ference was held in Africa and it brought together 
the largest number of Heads of State and Governments  in Nairobi – over 30 African Heads of State 
and Government participated in the Conference.  
4.299.   The delegation of Japan to the Conference was led by Prime Mi nister Shinzo Abe, which 
was a clear demonstration by the Government of Japan of its commitment in promoting Africa 's 
development agenda through strengthening of cooperation and partnership. The delegation also 
included chief executives of more than 70 maj or Japanese companies. The presence of the large 
number of companies who participated in TICAD VI in Nairobi was a confirmation of commitments 
by the private sector in Japan to partner with Africa to realiz e its development goals.  
4.300.   Finally, Kenya submitted questions to Japan on some issues including: the consumption 
tax; notifications in domestic support in agriculture, and volume of food aid; application of non -ad WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  valorem  rates; and import quota administration. We appreciate for the answers provided which w e 
shall study and revert in case we may need further clarification.  
TURKEY  
4.301.   Deputy Director -General Uyama , I would like to join previous speakers in welcoming the 
Japanese delegation in the presence of the Japanese Mission and Ambassador Ihara to the 13th 
trade policy review.  
4.302.   I also would like to thank the Secretariat and the Government of Japan for the 
comprehensive reports they provided and our discussant, Ambassador Julian Braithwaite for his 
insightful comments.  
4.303.   Measured on the purchasing power parity ba sis Japan stood as the fourth -largest economy 
in the world in 2015. As a major player of the global trading system, the crucial role that Japan 
plays multilaterally is obvious to everyone.  
4.304.   After two decades of economic stagnation, Japan’s return to growth  is curbed by the twin 
challenges of an ageing population and the mountain of public debt built up during years of 
deflation. The series of natural disasters have also had impact.  
4.305.   In an attempt to revitalize its economy, in 2013 Japanese Government launch ed an 
ambitious, three -pillar program me of aggressive monetary easing, flexible fiscal policy, and a 
structural reform -focused “growth strategy”. During the period under review this strategy 
continued to be the main framework for revitalizing the country's  economy. Japan's level of 
success and means of strategy in overcoming deflation and revitalizing its economy would also 
have considerable implications on the other economies. Therefore, Turkey encourages Japan to 
press ahead with the structural reforms th at could maintain a long term str ong and robust 
economic growth.  
4.306.   As Turkey already underlined at Japan’s previous TPR, in addition to low economic growth, 
the highest ratio (246 % of GDP in 2015) of public debt to GDP in the world and the volatility of 
the Japanese Yen against foreign currencies are the two additional areas of concern. While seeking 
to stimulate and reform the economy, the government should also devise a strategy for restraining 
Japan's sizable government debt. Pursuing these goals will be challenging and will have to be 
through even painful structural reforms. We know that Japanese authorities are cognizant of these 
problems and their complexity and the Japanese Government has the required capacity and the 
political will to counter them wit h the right measures.  
4.307.   Japan has a leadership role in international development and aid activities. Japan is 
actively supporting LDCs to build their trade capacity through comprehensive programs. This is an 
important role and we encourage Japan to continue  these efforts.  
4.308.   As stated in the “Japan Revitalizing Policy 2016” Japanese Government targets to double 
inward FDI stocks to 35 trillion Yen by 2020. Japanese Government’s focus on FDI promotion is 
encouraging. According to the 2015 UNCTAD report on world  investment, Japan is the 8th most 
attractive destination for multinational compa nies for the 2016 -2018 period. However, foreign 
investors in the Japanese market continue to face various challenges, many of which relate more 
to prevailing social practice r ather than government regulations. The fact that, the government is 
pursuing initiatives intended to address each of these challenges is positive and we hope these 
policies will contribute to an increasingly open and investor -friendly business environment.   
4.309.   On the bilateral front, located at the eastern and western ends of Asian continent Turkey 
and Japan enjoy very good political relations. As of 2016, 215 Japanese companies were operating 
in Turkey. For the period of 2002 -2015 the Japanese foreign direct investment in Turkey 
amounted to US$1. 87 billion. Many mega -projects in Turkey have been financed with loans 
originated from Japan. Our bilateral trade volume, at around US$4. 3 billion in 2016, does not 
reflect the potential of our two economies nor mirror s our excellent political relations. It should 
also be pointed out that our trade with Japan, Turkey’s fourth larg est trading partner in the 
Asia-Pacific region, registers an enormous surplus in the Japan’s favor. Such imbalance cannot be 
sustained in the long-term.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.310.   To ensure also a relative balance in trade, we hope to further deepen commercial and 
investment relations with Japan. We are ready to conclude the FTA negotiations that  began in 
2014.  
4.311.   With regard to Japan’s trade regime, Turkey had submitted a  series of questions covering a 
broad range of topics, seeking further clarification on Japan’s policy direction and approach. We 
look forward to Japan’s response to these questions.  
4.312.   Before concluding, I would like to highlight the important, active and co nstructive role of 
Japan in the WTO. And let me also mention that, Turkey values the close cooperation we have with 
Japan on this platform and looks forward to working with Japan for further trade liberalization  in 
the WTO through, inter alia, Trade in Ser vices Agreement and Environmental Goods Agreement 
negotiations in the lead -up to MC11.  
EL SALVADOR  
4.313.   El Salvador is very pleased to participate in this review, having enjoyed diplomatic 
relations with Japan for the past 82 years, during which time we have re ceived Japanese 
assistance in various non -refundable financial cooperation projects as well as technical cooperation 
in the areas of education, governance, transport, developing the private sector, and environmental 
conservation, among many others. Moreove r, Japan stands out and deserves our gratitude for its 
inputs and contributions within the Central American Integration System (SICA) in its capacity as 
an extra -regional observer.  
4.314.   Our commercial links with Japan are also quite close, with fairly complemen tary bilateral 
trade. Japan ranked 18th among our trading partners for exports, which totalled US$16  million in 
2016, and 10th for imports, which stood at US$157  million in the same year.  
4.315.   One of the main products exported to Japan is gourmet café, of which  El Salvador is one of 
its primary suppliers. Other export products are articles of apparel and footwear. Imports, for their 
part, are chiefly iron and steel products, vehicles and tyres.  
4.316.   Regarding FDI in El Salvador, Japan ranks as the 14th investor, with  the presence of large 
companies in various production sectors. This investment amounted to US$40  million as at the last 
quarter of 2015, focused on sectors such as electronic components, home appliances, computer 
peripheral, cable and harness assembly, an d medical apparatus.  
4.317.   In relation to the current review, the Secretariat report reveals Japan's strength in the 
trade arena, in so far as it continues to be the world's fourth -largest exporter and importer of 
goods and services, its main activities being in  the manufacturing sector, specifically machinery 
and transport equipment.  
4.318.   We note that in the previous review carried out two years ago, Japan reported progress in 
the "Abenomics" policy implemented by the Prime Minister to revitalize the economy, which i s still 
being pursued and has succeeded in altering market prospects, taking the economy out of 
deflation, increasing corporate profits, and raising the national employment rate and incomes. We 
also congratulate Japan on the recent adoption of the Intellec tual Property Strategic Programme in 
order to promote IP innovation for the fourth industrial revolution, spread and penetrate IP 
awareness and activity, promote the content industry into new arenas, and develop IP system 
infrastructures.  
4.319.   Under this review , we have submitted the questions recently received from our capital, and 
thank Japan in advance for its answers.  
4.320.   Last but not least, we should like to highlight the active role Japan plays through its 
participation and the initiatives it puts forward in v arious areas, and accordingly acknowledge its 
important contribution to the work carried out within this Organization. We also take the 
opportunity to express our gratitude for Japan's continued backing for the initiatives to which 
El Salvador subscribes i n the WTO.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  OMAN  
4.321.   Japan is an important and active M ember of the WTO. The Sultanate of Oman and Japan 
enjoy excellent historical, economic and trade relations. Bilateral trade between the two countries 
is largely dominated by trade in oil and gas and automo biles. We anticipate further expansion in 
bilateral trade in the coming years.  
4.322.   We have noted that Japan has bound 98.2% of its tariffs. 159 tariff li nes remain unbound. 
12 Members , including Oman , have bound all their tariff lines. We encourage Japan to do  the same 
and enlarge the scope of its bindings to 100%.  
4.323.   Oman is pleased to note that Japan has put in place extensive policy measures aimed at 
revitalizing its economy adversely affected by the economic performance during the period under 
review.  
4.324.   Oman co mmends Japan for its strong support for trade liberalization under the Multilateral 
Trading System embodied in the WTO. Japan is a party to several bilateral, regional and 
plurilateral trade agreements. We understand that Japan views these as a means of 
complementing WTO trade liberalization negotiations.  
KYRGYZ  REPUBLIC  
4.325.   Since the beginning of its M embership to the WTO, Japan has demonstrated highest of 
dedications to WTO rules and , as it has been said in the TPR of 2015 , Japan has convincingly 
shown its co mmitment to trade liberalization under the multilateral trading system centered on the 
WTO continuously.  
4.326.   Among many other successful steps on the WTO platform are Acceptance of Trade 
Facilitation Agreement and Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement.  
4.327.   The d iplomatic relations between the Kyrgyz Republic and Japan were established in 1992. 
For the period of trade and economic relations, Japan has been a reliable trading partner to us.  
4.328.   Regular official visits of high delegations of both countries on a mutual basis have created 
favourable conditions for discussions of trade and investment between the two countries.  
4.329.   Our countries have discussed a wide range of issues on further expansion of cooperation 
between Kyrgyz Republic and Japan, where the Japanese partic ipants were informed about trade 
and economic opportunities of the Kyrgyz Republic, as well as actual issues of regional and 
international issues of mutual interest.  
4.330.   The Kyrgyz –Japanese Forum that was held in 2016 has attracted around 17 leading 
Japanese companies as Panasonic Corporation, Mitsubishi Corporation; Nippon Steel , etc.  
4.331.   Our countries have established beneficial mutual trade. For the last decade, Japan was 
mainly exporting specialized machinery, used vehicles, electrical appliances, and devices  to the 
Kyrgyz Republic. The Kyrgyz Republic mainly exported jet fuel and finished products from textile 
products.  
MONTENEGRO  
4.332.   Montenegro would like to associate itself with the statement of the European Union.  
4.333.   Montenegro commends the Government of Japan f or its consiste nt commitment to trade 
liberaliz ation under the multilateral trading system centered on the WTO and its contribution to the 
overall work of the WTO. We use this opportunity to recognize Japan 's contribution to the success 
of IX and X Ministe rial conferences and its leadership role in finalizing the extended Information 
Technology Agreement in Nairobi. With all the chall enges we face in approaching MC11 , Japan 
remains reliable and creative partner in safeguarding inclusive and transparent inte rnational 
trading system and moving forward with our WTO trade negotiations.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.334.   Montenegro wishes to draw attention to the positive reports of the Government of Japan 
that it has ensured the implementation of the structural reforms and that economy has contin ued 
to recover moderately since November 2012, on the back on improvements in the employment 
and income environments. In particular, Montenegro wishes to draw attention to the comments of 
the Government of Japan that nominal GDP, real GDP and the GDP defla tor in FY2015 grew 
simultaneously from the previous year f or the first time in 18 years. Against the background of a 
challenging global economic environment and natural disasters, these are positive statistics. 
Indeed, they are reflected by the fact that J apan's annu al GDP growth was 0.5% in 2015.  In 
addition, we believe that the new strategy stipulated in the "Five Promises for Attracting Foreign 
Businesses to Japan " and the "Policy Package for Promoting Foreign Direct Investment into Japan ", 
will continue  to provide more FDI to make Japan an important international trade and investment 
hub.  
4.335.   Montenegro notes that the Government of Japan is pursuing the conclusion of number of 
Economic Partnership Agreements, both bilateral and regional. As the Government o f Japan notes, 
these agreements will enhance the transparency of the respective member country 's economy 
policy and reinforce the com petitiveness of its industries.  In this regard, it is already to Japans ' 
credit that it is a party to fifteen regional agre ements currently in force.  
4.336.   Of particular interest to Montenegro is the extent to which Japan is involved in bilateral 
activities outside o f FTAs with a range of states. In this regard, my delegation wishes to 
congratulate the Government of Japan on the dee p trading and economic relationships that it has 
built – and is building – with the United States, the European Union, the Russian Federation, 
China, the Republic of K orea, India, Africa and others.  In addition, Japan has extended significant 
trade prefere nces to number of developing and least developing countries and has contributed to 
"aid for trade " and other mechanis ms for trade capacity building.  As a state that is fully committed 
to deep integration with the international community, Montenegro conside rs Japan as a role model 
for the positive engagement with other states.  
4.337.   Bilateral relations between Japan and Montenegro are strong and substantive. Number of 
successful partnership, such as operations of Daido Metal Kotor and recently with Toshiba, marks  
our economic cooperation. In addition, Montenegro is grateful for over €2.5 million  of grants and 
extensive support received from the Japan Int ernational Cooperation Agency. Montenegro is 
committed to strengthening and broadening our economic and commerci al ties in the interest of 
business communities of both countries.  
4.338.   Finally, Montenegro is looking forward to continuing excellent and constructive 
engagement with Japan  in Geneva and my distinguished colleague, Ambassador Junichi Ihara. I 
want to use this  opportunity to congratulate him on his appointment as the Chair of the Dispute 
Settlement Body.  
SRI LANKA  
4.339.   My delegation notes with interest the achievement of the Japanese economy which has 
continued to recover moderately since November 2012 and improvem ents achieved in the 
employment and income levels in financial year 2015. We believe that sound and consistent 
economi c policies adopted by Japanese G overnment and proper implementation strategies have 
contributed towards the positive developments in the e conomy.  
4.340.   Further, we noted the policy developments of the "three arrows " of Abenomics, which 
direct to boost corporate profits and expanded national employment and income.  It is noteworthy 
the recent amendment to the "operational procedures for government p rocurement ", which 
introduced a "multiple bidding system ", where two or more companies can bid on a project which 
is not allowing one company to supply the full amount of the order alone.  Moreover , we noted the 
development in Japanese competition policy, A nti-monopoly Act (AMA) and its amendments.  
4.341.   It is also interesting to note the high degree of predictability in Japan 's import tariff.  In 
2016, the average applied MFN tariff is 6.1% while the average bound MFN tariff is 6.2%, bringing 
the gap just to 0. 1%. We further commend Japan 's Minimal use of trade contingency measures 
over its trading partners. With regard to fisheries sector, we have noted with interest the WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  contribution made by Japan on the dis cussion on fisheries subsidies.  My delegation appreciates  
Japan 's generous commitment towards Aid for Trade Programmes as well.  
4.342.   Let me briefly reflect on the bilateral re lations between two countries. Our bilateral ties 
began in the colonial era of Sri Lanka. The high level visits between the two countries  have taken 
place since 1921. The Emperor Showa, when he was the Crown Prince, has visited Sri Lanka (then 
Ceylon) in March 1921 and the present Emperor Akihito, the then Crown Prince together with his 
wife, Princess Mich iko, visited Sri Lanka in 1981.  After the  Second World War in 1951, Sri Lanka 
representative, the late former President of Sri Lanka Mr. J.R. Jayewardene attending the San 
Francisco Peace Conference made the great statement in supporting Japan disclaiming of war 
reparations.  
4.343.   These historic bilate ral relations have further strengthened through the trade.  Referring to 
the recent development, the total t rade turnover which stood at US$ 566.4 mill ion in 2004 has 
increased to US$ 1.6 billion in 2015 registering the significant increase of 18 3%. Japan is the 10th 
largest market destination for Sri Lankan products and the 3rd largest supplier to Sri Lanka. 
Export of Apparel products to Japan has become dominant in accounting for 22% of Sri Lankan 
exports while export of Ceylon Tea accounted for 21% of Sri L anka's exports to Japan in 2016. 
Motor vehicle is the top most importing item to Sri Lanka from Japan over the recent years and 
which accounted for 57% of total imports in 2016.  
4.344.   Japan has been a great dev elopment partner for Sri Lanka.  Grants and funding a ssistance 
from Japan has contributed significantly to develop the country 's socia l and economic 
infrastructure. Currently, the Government of Japan has engaged in many development activities in 
the m ajor provinces of the country. Cumulative FD I from Japan i s around US$ 350 million.  
4.345.   Further, Sri Lanka has been a beneficiary from the Japanese GSP scheme s ince its 
introduction in 1971. This has facilitated Sri Lanka to strengthen its market positions in Japan.  
4.346.   In the multilateral front, my delegation appreciate s Japan 's highly valued contribution to 
the multilateral trading system and its active e ngagement in the negotiations. The dynamic role 
played by His Excellency the Ambassador Junichi Ihara and his team in Geneva in proactively 
engaging in ongoing activiti es of WTO is highly commendable.  
4.347.   I take this opportunity to congratulate Ambassador Junichi Ihara on his election as the 
Chair of the Dispute Settlement Body.  
BENIN 
4.348.   The delegation of Benin associates itself with the statement made by Cambodia on behalf 
of the Group of least developed countries (LDCs).  
4.349.   The delegation of Benin pays tribute to the efforts deployed by Japan since the last review 
in 2015 in order to pursue the economic recovery started in 2012.  
4.350.   The actions taken have helped to revive economic ac tivity and stem deflation.  
4.351.   The positive trends in external trade are also worth emphasizing, as reflected by the 
increase in the value of exports and the reduction in imports, in net terms, as well as the 
significant increase in the amount of inward and ou tward FDI stocks between 2013 and 2015.  
4.352.   Likewise, Japan has held firm in its choice to open up the economy, through a trade policy 
that supports trade liberalization.  
4.353.   In the Doha round of multilateral trade negotiations, Japan is making an important 
contri bution to the ongoing work, seeking to take on board the development dimension.  
4.354.   The delegation of Benin would like to thank its Japanese colleagues for their highly 
appreciated support and the substantial contribution they have made to date in various area s of 
interest and concern raised by the LDCs.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.355.   It urges Japan to continue in the same vein in order to find additional answers to the 
concerns and requests of the LDCs.  
4.356.   The delegation of Benin thanks Japan for the invaluable assistance it gives Benin in the  
implementation of economic and social programmes, specifically in agricultural and rural 
development, promoting food safety, and the construction of social health and educational 
infrastructures, all of which are initiatives that help combat poverty and u nderpin attainment of the 
Sustainable Development Goals for 2030.  
4.357.   It congratulates Ambassador Junichi Ihara and his team for their commitment in the work 
on multilateral trade negotiations, and for their constructive collaboration with the other 
delegation s, in particular from the LDCs.  
4.358.   It thanks the WTO Secretariat and the government of Japan for the highly informative 
reports drawn up for the current trade policy review for Japan.  
BURUNDI  
4.359.   Bilaterally, Burundi and Japan have maintained excellent relations of cooperation since 
1963, the year in which the two countries established diplomatic relations. Apart from the mutual 
visits by high -level authorities between the two countries, cooperation relations between Burundi 
and Japan entail the financing by the J apanese government of scholarships and traineeships for 
civil servants from Burundi and various social and economic development projects. My government 
looks very favourably on Japan's presence in our country and is pleased with the status of 
progress in t hese projects.  
4.360.   The Japanese economy has continued to perform in a subdued manner on account of 
monetary instability but also owing to the series of natural disasters that hit the country in recent 
years, which further hampered the economy and exerted incre ased pressure on public finances.  
4.361.   However, Burundi pays tribute to Japan's efforts in putting in place a strategic framework 
to halt deflation and revitalize the country's economy by means of a bold monetary policy, a 
flexible fiscal policy, structural ref orms and economic stabilization measures which have enabled it 
to achieve sustained growth at an average annual rate of 7% since 2010, and its generally 
restrictive monetary policy, which brought inflation down from 7.1% in 2010 to 1.03% in 2014, its 
lowes t level in 50 years.  
4.362.   My delegation is also pleased to see that growth in the first two quarters of 2016 showed a 
slight rebound (0.5% and 0.2%, respectively) from the contraction of 0.4% recorded in the last 
quarter of 2015, and that relatively stronger co nsumer and government consumption were the 
main drivers of this improvement.  
4.363.   Burundi thus congratulates Japan on the important initiatives and reforms it has 
undertaken in these past few years aimed at enhancing the transparency and effectiveness of its 
trade policy which, once liberalized in line with the WTO rules, will enable it to engage fully in this 
open and non -discriminatory regime.  
4.364.   Burundi is happy that Japan is pursuing the conclusion of Economic Partnership 
Agreements (EPAs), both bilateral and r egional, as well as plurilateral trade agreements; the 
negotiations already under way on these will enhance the transparency of the respective Member 
countries' economic policies and reinforce the competitiveness of their industries, which will in turn 
be beneficial for the multilateral trade negotiations.  
4.365.   Agriculture remains an important sector for the domestic economy in some parts of Japan, 
despite the fact that its share of GDP remains small. Given that agriculture is one of the key areas 
for progress o f the global economic system, my delegation encourages Japan to review the market 
access measures and to continue to submit updated notifications to the WTO.  
4.366.   We also note that the WTO Secretariat report makes reference to noticeable economic 
losses for Jap anese companies caused by counterfeiting and piracy. We encourage Japan to WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  strengthen the measures taken in this regard in order to put a stop to this form of economic 
handicap.  
4.367.   Burundi also encourages Japan to bring into force all the laws already establi shed to help 
stabilize its economy, and to notify all preferential rules so that the developing countries in general 
and the LDCs in particular can participate effectively in world trade.  
4.368.   It also encourages Japan to deploy more efforts in regard to tariff lines that are not yet 
bound and to establish a stable budgetary framework in order to overcome all the problems 
hindering its economy, thereby ensuring better integration into the multilateral trading system.  
GHANA  
4.369.   Ghana further commends Japan for the con tinued moderate recovery of the economy since 
November 2012, and for the introduction of "Abenomics " which has seen improvements in the 
employment and income  environments, as noted in the r eports.  
4.370.   Japan and Ghana have long enjoyed amicable bilateral relat ionship which predates Ghana 's 
independence. The friendship between the two countries is symbolized by the history of Dr. Hideyo 
Noguchi, a well -respected Japanese medical researcher who travelled to Ghana in 1927 for yellow 
fever research, and died while studying on the same yellow fever. We also have the popular 
Japanese chocolate products produced from Ghanaian cocoa beans.  
4.371.   Trade between Ghana and Japan is not as large, with exports comprising mainly of cocoa, 
and marine products and imports made up of automobiles, machinery, tyres and tubes , etc. 
4.372.   Japan provides support to Ghana for continuation of sound  macro economic management, 
establishment of administrative and financial disciplines, and delivery of efficient administrative 
services through capacity building of civil servants and improvement of public financial 
management system, while effectively using budget support mechanism in improving policies and 
regulations.  
4.373.   In May 2016, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe pledged Japan 's commitment to provide Ghana 
with US$102 million (¥11.2 billion) in loans to build infrastructure, including a new bridge. To give 
effect to this pledge, a loan agreement has been signed with the Japan International Co -operation 
Agency (JICA) for the construction of a 540 -metre long cabl e-stay steel bridge over the Volta 
River, marking the resumption of the Yen Loan Scheme after it was suspended when Ghana joined 
the league of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) in 2001.  
4.374.   Japan 's cooperation through ODA, in the health and medical c are fields has been enormous 
including, aid to the tune of ¥2.3 billion, for building a research center at Ghana 's Noguchi 
Memorial Institute for Medical Research, a facility named after Japanese bacteriologist Dr. Noguchi, 
to strengthen Ghana 's capability  in responding to threats of infectious diseases. This followed the 
outbreak of EBOLA in the sub -region recently.  
4.375.   Regarding Aid, including bilateral Grant Aid, and Technical Cooperation, Japan has been a 
dependable ally of Ghana providing over 2 billion Ye n in total to Ghana between 2010 and 2014, in 
support of areas such as prevention of Mother -to-Child Transmission of HIV, and 
institutionalization of Pre -Tertiary Teacher Professional Development and Management, 
Rehabilitation of Roads, Funding Poverty Red uction Strategies, and Improvement of Ghana 's Power 
Distribution System.  
4.376.   In Humanitarian Assistance, t he Government of Japan has been providing assistance to 
Ghana in our times of need.  
4.377.   In June 2015, emergency relief goods worth 8.5 million Yen were provi ded to Ghana, 
through the JICA in response to the request from the Government, when the capital city was 
devastated by the twin disaster of flood and fire which took with them over 160 people with 
53,000 others rendered homeless and forced to take refuge f rom the floods.  
4.378.   Similar assistance had been provided by the government of Japan on several occasions.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.379.   At the Sixth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD VI), held for 
the first time in Africa, in Nairobi, Kenya, Japan pledged to inv est US$30 billion for the future of 
Africa through the development of quality infrastructure, promoting resilient health systems, and 
laying the foundations for peace and stability through Public -Private -Partnerships targeted at 
empowering 10 million Afric ans through the development of capacities. We are confident that 
Ghana will get its fair share of this pledge to support our industrialization and structural 
transformation.  
4.380.   As both reports indicate, however, Japan has declared its intent to promoting plur ilateral 
negotiations within the WTO and reflect the outcomes of such negotiations on the multilateral 
trading system. Japan is currently a party to sixteen EPAs and is pursuing the "Japan Revitalization 
Strategy " which is committed to increasing the FTA c overage ratio to 70% by 2018 from the 
current figure of 39.5%. Reflecting the outcomes of such plurilateral initiatives in the multilateral 
trading system could have benefits as being proposed yet the multiplicity of such negotiations 
while diverting the a ttention from WTO negotiations also leads to balkanisation of the MTS.  
4.381.   Ghana shares in Japan 's renewed commitment to the non -discriminatory, rule -based 
multilateral trading system centred on the WTO, to maintain and strengthen the system.  
VIET  NAM 
4.382.   We would  like to associate ourselves with the ASEAN joi nt statement made by 
Ambassador  Maria Salleh of Malaysia.  
4.383.   Since November 2012,  the Japanese economy has shown recovery with progress seen in 
the employment and income environments. Particularly, we the nominal  GDP, real GDP and the 
GDP deflator of Japan in financial year 2015 experienced simultaneous growth from the previous 
year for the first time in 18 years.  
4.384.   For Viet Nam, Japan has been one of our leading trade partners for years. The country is 
Viet Nam 's third largest export market. Japan provides us with strategic items such as high -quality 
machines and equipment.  
4.385.   In 2016, Viet Nam 's export to Japan reached US$14.6 billion, up to 3.9 % from 2015. 
Import from this country increased by 4.7 % year-on-year to US$15 billion.  
4.386.   It is important to note that Vietnamese and Japanese products are complementary. This 
facilitates trade promotion activities and creates potential for development of trade relationship 
between the two countries.  
4.387.   In terms of investment, Japa n is currently Viet Nam 's second biggest investor with total 
investment of US$42 billion, out of 114 countries an d regions investing in Viet Nam .  
4.388.   Viet Nam also appreciates Japan 's support for expanding global trade and its commitment 
to the multilateral t rading system. Viet Nam wishes to acknowledge the important work done by 
Japan in support of trade facilitation in the Asia -Pacific region, particularly in South -East Asia. In 
addition, Japan 's strong role as a member of APEC further supports our mutual in terest and has 
made an important contribution towards facilitating trade flows in the region, as well as helping to 
bring the Trade Facilitation Agreement to a successful conclusion.  
4.389.   In 2017, Viet Nam hosts APEC for the second time and we are closely work ing with Japan 
in a series of programs, namely supporting industry, e -commerce, quality infrastructure 
investment, infrastructure investment policy review, manufacturing and environmental services. 
We look forward to furthe r working with Japan and other M embers to make 2017 APEC year a 
great success with tangible outcomes.  
4.390.   In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to thank and appreciate Ambassador 
Junichi Ihara and his team for the preparation of this review as well as their constructive and 
active contribution and engagement in WTO work and wish Japan a successful Trade Policy 
Review.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  MYANMAR  
4.391.   My delegation warmly welcomes this TPR and strongly supports the TPR mechanism which 
aimed at enhancing transparency and understanding of the trading syste m of its member.  
4.392.   It is also a great pleasure for Myanmar to associate itself with the statements delivered on 
behalf of the ASEAN and the LDCs.  
4.393.   Myanmar and Japan have established diplomatic relations since 1954. The Myanmar -Japan 
Bilateral Investment Treat y was signed  on 15 December 2013.  
4.394.   According to our trade statistics, the volume of trade between our two countries reached 
over US$1,845 million in 2015 -2016 and over US$1,449 million in December 2016. Our major 
export items to Japan are clothes, prawn, se same, jewelry, green mung bean, black turtle bean, 
white kidney bean, raw rubber, raw metal and fish. Myanmar 's import products from Japan are 
vehicles and spare parts, machines and machinery spare parts, construction materials, electronic 
devices, telecom munication devices, iron and steel products, train and spare parts, plastic and 
chemical products.  
4.395.   Myanmar exporters have enjoyed the GSP Form -A of Japan 's GSP scheme. At present, the 
GSP Form -A is the most benefited preference for our exporters. The valu e of GSP Form -A reached 
US$710.511 million in 2015 -2016 and US$532.25 million in December 2016. Moreover, the GSP 
Form AJ is also benefited for our exporters and its value reached US$30.574 million in 2015 -2016 
and US$35.780 million in December 2016.  
4.396.   In terms of the Foreign Direct Investment in Myanmar, the current volume of investment 
from 89  companies of Japan reached US$ 682.596 million in December 2016 which is the 11th of 
total FDI in Myanmar.  
4.397.   Japan is the leading investor in Thilawa Special Economic Z one (SEZ) located near Yangon. 
It is the first special economic zone built in Myanmar. According to our record, 76 companies from 
15 different coun tries have already invested US$ 921.80 million in the zone (A) of Thilawa SEZ. 
These investments have created 11,542 job opportunities in total and a win -win situation for both 
the investors and our country.  
4.398.   In order to b oost the economy, the Japanese G overnment has set out three -pillar strategy 
of monetary easing, fiscal stimulus, and structural reforms in the a reas of agriculture, energy and 
healthcare.  
4.399.   During this review period, the Bank of Japan has implemented quantitative and qualitative 
monetary easing with the negative interest rate to boost private consumption. Moreover, Japan 
has adopted a number of eco nomic plans and some structural reforms including the reform of 
corporate governance framework.  
4.400.   In 2015, Japan moved forward to grant tax incentive to innovate basic research activities. 
Competition policy framework and the regulatory regime for SPS and T BT measures of Japan have 
remained largely unchanged in this review period. However, Ja pan made amendments on the 
Anti-Monopoly Act (AMA) and the regulatory framework for Japan 's government procurement in 
2016 particularly for "operational procedures for g overnment procurement ".  
4.401.   Agriculture remains an important sector for Japan and it is highly protected with some of 
the highest import tariffs in the sector, tariff quotas for some import products, and specific market 
support. Although the average applied M FN tariff on fishery products was 6.2% in FY2016, import 
quotas has continuously applied to several fish species.  
4.402.   The services sector is key component of Japan 's economy. The services sector is broadly 
open to competition except in some areas like broadcas ting and medical services. Japan made 
amendments on the Banking Act which includes relaxed measures for agency services and 
intermediary foreign banks.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.403.   Japan is an important player and active supporter of both regional and multilateral trading 
system. We want to see continuous and effective support of Japan to the WTO especially in 
strengthening its rules -based trading system, enforcing global trade rules, and bringing the current 
WTO's trade negotiation forward, including the DDA negotiation and the issue  like e -commerce.  
4.404.   The delegation of Myanmar is pleased to convey our sincere appreciation to Mr. Tomochika 
Uyama , Deputy Director General, Economic Affairs Bureau, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, head of 
delegation and his team for their constructive engageme nt throughout this TPR.  
CAMBODIA  ON BEHALF  OF THE LDC GROUP  
4.405.   Japan is a critical trading partner for LDCs and particularly among Asian LDCs.  
4.406.   LDCs exports to Japan range from fuel through textiles and clothing to fish products and 
agricultural goods while im ports concentrate on vehicles, machineries and electronics.  
4.407.   In 1996, Japan presented the third largest export destination of LDCs exports accounting 
for nearly 8% of total LDC export.  
4.408.   In 2015, the relative importance of Japan has slightly declined to becom e the sixth largest 
export destination representing roughly 3% of LDCs exports.  
4.409.   Such decline is, however, almost entirely due to decreasing exports of fuel from African 
LDCs.  
4.410.   In the meantime, Asian LDCs have seen a steady increase in their exports to Japan  and, 
since 2013 these LDCs enjoy a continuous trade surplus in their trade relation with Japan. Such 
spectacular growth is largely due to exports of textiles and clothing from Bangladesh or Cambodia 
and has contributed to help LDCs diversify their export basket to Japan.  
4.411.   It is important to note that this increase largely coincides with improvement in the 
coverage of the Japanese DFQF schemes not only for agricultural products but also and most 
significantly for textiles and clothing a few years after the H ong Kong Ministerial Conference.  
4.412.   The Group warmly welcomes such enhanced preferential market access scheme granted to 
47 LDCs which today  covers around 98% of tariff lines making it one of the most comprehensive 
DFQF schemes.  
4.413.   As with any DFQF scheme, howev er, exemptions can have important effects on LDC trade. 
This may be the case of some excluded products such as rice, sugar, fishery products or articles of 
leather where improved conditions might contribute to further diversification of the LDCs export 
baskets. 
4.414.   On services preferences, Japan did notify preferences pursuant to the LDC Services waiver 
covering many market access sectors identified of interest to LDC services suppliers. We are 
pleased that Japan notified "None" in modes 1 to 3 for entertainmen t, convention, franchising, 
hotels and restaurants, investigation, security guard, rental of commercial vehicles with operator, 
telephone answering, and tourist guides.  
4.415.   The Group would like to see Japan improve on its preferences to LDCs by including 
reduc tion or elimination of administrative red -tape and fees for visa, work permit, residency permit 
and licensing applications.  
PHILIPPINES  
4.416.   The Philippines associates itself with the ASEAN statement delivered by H.E. Ambassador 
Mariam Salleh of Malaysia, recog nizing the valuable economic partnership between the ASEAN and 
Japan.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  4.417.   The Philippines and Japan have longstanding trade and investment relations. Japan w as 
the Philippines ' top trading partner, second top source of  foreign direct investments and top aid 
provider in 2015.  
4.418.   The recent visit of the President to Japan in October 2016, r eciprocated by a visit of Prime 
Minister Shinzō Abe to the Philippines in January t his year, is a testament to the commitment of 
both Governments to reinvigorate t he existing mutu ally beneficial partnership between our two 
countries.  
4.419.   In 2006, the Philippines and Japan signed the Philippi nes-­Japan Economic Partnership 
Agreement (PJEPA), which entered into force in December 2008. This has notably increased the 
trade between the Phil ippines and Japan and has continued to contribute to strengthening the 
economic relations between our two countries. Japan became the Philippines largest country 
market after only a few years of PJEPA implementation.  
4.420.   Among the Philippine products that imme diately benefit ted from tariff elimination and 
reduction from PJEPA were wood carpentry product s, bananas, and frozen meat and edible offal of 
fowls, among others. Deployment of Filipi no nurses and care workers, and Japan 's share to total 
investments in th e Philippine s have also increased since the implementation of PJEPA.  
4.421.   The Philippines looks forward to the convening of the 6th PJEPA Joint C ommittee Meeting in 
Japan at the earliest possible opportunity within the first h alf of the year for the General Review of 
the Agreement, which will provide an opportunity for both Parties to discuss  improvements on the 
implementation and operation of the Agreement.  
4.422.   The Philippines notes from Japan 's report that ma intaining and strengthening the 
multilateral trading sys tem under the WTO remains as a main pillar of Japan 's external economic 
policy. Being the world 's fourth largest exporter and importer of go ods and services, Japan 's 
influence and contribution to the global tra de and the multilateral trading system cannot be 
overemphasized.  
4.423.   Further, the Philippines recognizes the vital role and a ctive participation of Japan in various 
plurilateral agreements, such as the I nformation Technology Agreement expansion and the 
Environmental Goods Agreem ent, which demonstrates Jap an's dedication to establishing a more 
solid and conducive b asis for enhancing business and trade on a worldwide scale.  
4.424.   With the realization of the ASEAN economic integra tion in 2015 and the Philippine 
chairmanship of the ASEAN this year, the Philippines l ooks forward to Japan 's expanding trade and 
investment engagements in the region as one of our major dialogue partners.  
KINGDOM  OF MOROCCO  
4.425.   It is a great pleasure for Morocco to participate today in this review of Japan's trade 
policies in view of the excel lent relations of friendship and cooperation prevailing between our 
two countries.  
4.426.   Moreover, these relations are being constantly strengthened, going beyond investment and 
encompassing also support for social and economic development in Morocco, as reflect ed by the 
work of the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA), present in Morocco since 1974, 
which aids Morocco's development through the provision of support for sustainable development, 
promoting triangular cooperation and eliminating regional and social imbalances.  
4.427.   In regard to trade, there are huge opportunities for cooperation and partnership between 
Morocco and Japan, which nevertheless remain inadequately exploited, and are in need of a real 
kick-start.  
4.428.   It is with this in mind and in order to gain a better understanding that Morocco would like 
to take this opportunity to ask Japan for the following information.  
4.429.   In regard to Japan's bilateral activities outside FTAs, Morocco would like to have more 
details on the investment plan envisaged by Japan for Africa for the period 2017 -2018 in terms of WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  services concerned, and specifically whether the investment plan covers the promotion of research 
in the field of new technologies.  
4.430.   In respect of the G -7 ICT Summit held on 29 and 30  April 2016, and fur ther to the 
ministerial meeting in Takamatsu at which the stakeholders, including Japan, endorsed the 
fundamental principles and action plans for the introduction of a "digitally connected world", 
Morocco would like to ascertain the measures Japan is conte mplating within its external 
cooperation policy to help the other WTO Member countries accede to these objectives.  
4.431.   Last but not least, please allow me to thank Japan in anticipation for the answers it may 
kindly provide and to wish this nation, a friend of  Morocco, every success in this review.  
PANAMA  
4.432.   Panama and Japan enjoy close bilateral relations. Japan was the second country to 
establish diplomatic relations with Panama, just two months after Panama was constituted as a 
republic in 1903.  
4.433.   Although geogra phically distant, we have established important political, economic and 
commercial ties, which have grown in recent years, in particular in the maritime sector, Japan 
being the fourth -biggest user and destination of merchandise passing through the Panama C anal. 
4.434.   In 2016, Panama imported from Japan a total of US$314.1  million of products, including, 
inter alia , vehicles and electronic products. It is worth mentioning that mutual trade between 
Panama and Japan comes to US$83.4  million. The bulk of this figure is accounted for by re -exports 
from the Colon Free Zone, the amount of which has tripled between 2015 and 2016. Currently, 
Panama and Japan are expanding their trade relations into other areas such as mining and 
infrastructure, whereby Japan will participa te in the design and construction of line 3 of the 
Panama City metro and the fourth bridge over the Panama Canal.  
4.435.   The Secretariat report highlights actions taken by Japan to address major challenges, such 
as measures to improve the country's public finance s and the government's strategy founded on 
monetary easing, fiscal stimulus and structural reforms in areas such as agriculture and energy, 
seeking to revitalize the economy. Their initial positive results are reflected in the annual GDP 
growth in 2015.  
4.436.   We also commend other initiatives aimed at boosting the competitiveness of the economy 
through innovation, large -scale investments and attracting foreign companies. We can point to 
initiatives undertaken by Japan in the services sector, specifically in the a rea of financial services. 
We likewise welcome the Japan Revitalization Strategy 2014, which seeks to strengthen corporate 
governance and promote further integration into the world economy.  
4.437.   Notwithstanding the progress made, there is doubtless room for fur ther improvement, 
specifically in areas such as anti -dumping and the recurrent recourse to measures in agriculture 
where, despite the changes in agricultural programmes, the sector continues to enjoy a high level 
of assistance and protection, chiefly throu gh price support. We also note that during the review 
period Japan did not make any alterations in terms of the aid it provides the fisheries sector 
through transfers of public funds.  
4.438.   In closing, we should like to congratulate Japan for its active particip ation in the 
multilateral trading system and its role in the ongoing trade negotiations in this Organization.  
URUGUAY  
4.439.   Uruguay extends a most cordial welcome to the Japanese delegation in this important 
forum within the multilateral system.  
4.440.   Our country has historically maintained friendly and constructive relations with Japan in 
the various spheres covered by our bilateral relations, not only policy, the economy and trade, but 
also cooperation and culture.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  4.441.   Since Japan's last trade policy review in 2015, we h ave been working to strengthen 
political and commercial relations between Uruguay and Japan.  
4.442.   In November  2015, shortly after his election, President Tabaré Vásquez made an official 
visit to Japan, where he held various high -level meetings, including with t he Japanese Prime 
Minister Shinzo Abe.  
4.443.   The latter meeting emphasized Uruguay's importance as a logistical hub in South America 
which Japan could utilize more intensively.  
4.444.   Significant business meetings were also held during the visit, and both parties excha nged 
views on the Agreement for the Liberalization, Promotion and Protection of Investment between 
Uruguay and Japan, signed on 26  January  2015. This agreement is considered as a catalyst for 
increasing trade and further leveraging Japanese investment in U ruguay.  
4.445.   Commercial exchanges between Uruguay and Japan may be described as not yet having 
attained their true potential. There are many Japanese investments in Uruguay, primarily in the 
automotive sector, electronic equipment, medical equipment and service s. 
4.446.   Trade between Uruguay and Japan has historically resulted in a favourable trade balance 
for the Asian country. Indeed, the trend in the trade balance was even more negative for Uruguay 
in the biennium 2015 -17. Bilateral trade is marginal, with Uruguayan  exports to Japan in 2016 
accounting for only 0.14% of total exports, although they showed a growth in performance up to 
2014, when the value of our exports peaked at a fairly low level of US$12.9  million  
4.447.   In Uruguay's opinion, bilateral trade in products d oes not reflect both parties' potential, 
which suggests the need to intensify efforts and contacts at the level of private operators, but also 
make faster progress in removing technical obstacles to trade. To this end, Uruguay participates 
regularly in the  FOODEX food fair.  
4.448.   Furthermore, Uruguay maintains its expectation of entering the market for high -quality 
bovine meat.  
4.449.   Lastly, we would like to reaffirm our two countries' interest in joining forces in the quest for 
a positive outcome at MC11 and to protec t the multilateral trading system based on predictable, 
transparent and balanced rules.  
4.450.   It is extremely important that Japan, as one of the world's biggest economies, which has 
been and is a key player in international trade and has benefited from the mult ilateral system, 
should today play an important role in defending the institutions and the multilateral trading 
system.  
HONDURAS  
4.451.   First of all, we should like to highlight that, in the Central American region, Japan has 
engaged in supporting the efforts car ried out by the region to achieve greater peace, freedom, 
democracy and development, which is the goal of the Central American Integration System 
(SICA).  
4.452.   The year 2015 marked the 80th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations 
between Japan a nd Honduras. Both countries maintain close bonds, founded on relations of 
friendship, cooperation and exchange. This is demonstrated by the fact that our countries have 
organized important exchanges, such as the visit to Honduras of Her Imperial Highness P rincess 
Makao, and the visit to Japan by President Hernández. These served to make the relations 
between our two nations even stronger, highlighting as priority issues areas such as, inter alia , 
disaster prevention, consolidating the social and economic st ructure, strengthening the health 
system and reinforcing basic education.  
4.453.   We appreciate and highlight a number of representative projects: in education, the Project 
for the Improvement of the Teaching Method in Mathematics – Phase  II; in health, the Chagas  
Disease Control Project – Phase  2; in climate change, the cooperation experience which JICA WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  brings in respect of natural disasters/projects. Through the project on the management of water 
basins of the Francisco Morazán (El Cajón) hydroelectric dam, JICA supports environmental 
protection, without forgetting the key role played by human beings.  
4.454.   In Honduras, the Japanese cooperation agency JICA has focused much of its efforts on 
human capacity building and to date more than 2,600 Honduran trainees have recei ved training in 
Japan and third countries. Likewise, we highlight and express appreciation for the multitude of 
cultural activities sponsored by the Japanese government in our country.  
4.455.   Turning to bilateral trade, we import from Japan around US$135  million of, inter alia , 
automotive vehicles for the transport of persons and freight and hot -rolled and cold -rolled 
flat-rolled products, and export around US$12  million of, inter alia , coffee, melons, sesame seed 
and shrimps and lobsters.  
4.456.   The reports submitted re veal the wide range of government policy measures aimed at 
boosting business and consumer confidence and consolidating public finances, based on pillars 
such as monetary easing, fiscal stimulus and structural reforms in areas such as agriculture, 
energy an d healthcare.  
4.457.   We note with attention that in 2015 Japan took steps to grant tax incentives to innovative 
basic research activities, and support measures included an increase in the deduction rate and 
broadening the scope of research and development expense s that qualify under the incentive 
framework.  
4.458.   In the same year, the Telecom Business Act was amended so as to oblige 
telecommunication operators to file a document clarifying the details of the contract regarding 
designated telecom services.  
4.459.   Elsewhere, a f eature that is worth highlighting is the amendment of the Unfair Competition 
Prevention Act to provide greater protection to trade secrets, and the scope of acts subject to 
criminal penalties, as well as civil remedies, has been expanded.  
4.460.   Regarding intelle ctual property, we highlight the entry into force of the new law for 
protecting geographical indications, applying only to geographical indications of foods, beverages 
and agricultural and marine products, which our authorities back home in our capital wil l be 
studying.  
4.461.   Lastly, Honduras congratulates Japan on the significant efforts and progress made during 
the review period and wishes it every success in the presentation of its 13th trade policy review.  
PAKISTAN  
4.462.   Pakistan and Japan enjoy extremely cordial a nd friendly as well as good bilateral relations 
since the creation of Pakistan in 1947. In 1952, Pakistan opened its Embassy in Tokyo. This year 
marks the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between both countries. Japan extends 
economic cooperation a s well as humanitarian assistance to Pakistan in its time of crisis in the 
form of earthquake & flood relief and rescue operations.  
4.463.   Japan has been a source of inspiration for Pakistan as it established its industry and 
economy in the 1950s and 1960s. The b ilateral trade between bo th countries stands at around 
2 billion yen with the balance tilted heavily in favo ur of Japan. Pakistan 's major exports to Japan 
comprise  textile yarn, textile goods, articles of leather, and crustaceans whereas Pakistan imports 
automobiles, machinery, and steel from Japan.  
4.464.   In February 2011, the two sides signed the Joint Statement on Japan -Pakistan 
Comprehensive Partnership. Despite this, the tremendous potential of economic relations between 
both the countries remains unfulfille d.  
4.465.   During the review period, Japan 's economic performance was subdued mainly due to the 
effects of an aging and declining population in addition to a series of natural disasters that hit the 
country in recent years. The Government 's strategy of monetary e asing, fiscal stimulus, and WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  structural reforms (in areas such as agriculture, energy, and healthcare) has produced mixed 
results. In 2014, real GDP contracted by 0.03%, due to lack of domestic demand. Domestic 
consumption slightly increased in 2015, leadin g to an annual GDP growth of 0.5. Since Japan 's 
previous review, the structure of its economy has remained largely unchanged, with services 
accounting for the largest share of GDP (72%).  
4.466.   Even though Japan is the world 's fourth -largest exporter and importe r of goods and 
services, it is a matter of concern that both merchandise imports and exports declined between 
2014 and 2015. Because of the major economic role of Japan in the world economy, its domestic 
slowdown can have an impact for the entire global ec onomy.   
4.467.   In 2015, the stock of inward foreign direct investment (FDI) remained at around 4% of 
GDP, which continues to be smaller than in other major developed economies. Japan maintains a 
general policy of attracting FDI which is very positive. In this ve in, Pakistan will appreciate further 
efforts of Japan to assist the multilateral system to start a discussion on investment facilitation for 
development.  
4.468.   Pakistan commends Japan 's initiative in granting tax incentives to innovative basic 
research activiti es. Support measures included an increase in the deduction rate, and the 
expansion of the scope of research and development expenses that qualify under the incentive 
framework.  
4.469.   Pakistan is pleased to note that the services sector, a key component in Japan 's economy, 
is broadly open to competition, except in selected areas such as certain broadcasting and medical 
services.  
4.470.   Pakistan is also highly appreciative of the efforts of Japan 's Mission to the WTO, headed by 
His Excellency Mr. Junichi Ihara  Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the WTO, for their 
pro trade stance and their continu ous efforts to uphold the multi lateral trading system. In addition, 
we welcome his appointment as the DSB Chair and wish him all the best.  
DOMINICAN  REPUBLIC  
4.471.   In this, Japan's 13th trade policy review, we wish to congratulate the Japanese authorities 
in so far as, even though Japan's economic performance again remained sluggish during the 
review period, they have nonetheless implemented a wide range of policy mea sures to boost 
business and consumer confidence and consolidate public finances. The government's strategy is 
based on three pillars – monetary easing, fiscal stimulus and structural reforms in areas such as 
agriculture, energy and healthcare – which we be lieve to be shrewd choices as the main strategy 
framework for exiting deflation and revitalizing the country's economy.  
4.472.   In 2014, real GDP contracted by 0.03%, reflecting the backlash from the consumption tax 
rise; domestic consumption increased slightly in  2015, however, leading to an annual GDP growth 
of 0.5%.  
4.473.   The Secretariat report indicates that the Japanese authorities are continuing to strive to 
boost private consumption, through quantitative and qualitative monetary easing with a negative 
interest rat e. On the fiscal front, a number of economic plans have been adopted with a view, 
inter alia, to improving the country's public finances (including its debt position) and boosting the 
competitiveness of the economy through large -scale investments. Structur al reforms, including 
those aimed at encouraging labour force participation and improving Japan's corporate governance 
framework, are also under way. All these measures seem to us to be judicious and will have a 
positive impact going forward.  
4.474.   Likewise, Jap an maintains a general policy of attracting foreign direct investment. In 
March  2015, five measures were announced to attract foreign businesses, including enhancing the 
educational environment for foreign children, which is highly positive.  
4.475.   In general, Ja pan's trade policy has remained fairly constant during the review period. The 
principal innovations include: changes in the regulatory framework for government procurement, 
in May  2016, introducing a "multiple bidding system", whereby two or more companies  can bid on WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  a project if one company cannot supply the full amount of the order alone; and, in March  2014, 
adoption of the revised Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA), which entered into force in 
the country on 6  April 2014. Interesting changes also occurred in the area of intellectual property, 
including: implementation of stand -alone legislation on geographical indications for foods, 
beverages and agricultural and marine products; strengthening of the protection of trade secrets; 
and various amendme nts to the Patent Act, the Trademarks Act, the Design Act and the Act on 
International Applications under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT).  
4.476.   Agriculture remains an important sector for the domestic economy in some parts of Japan 
despite the fact that its  share of GDP remains small. The agriculture sector is still highly protected 
with some of the highest import tariffs in the sector and specific market support.  
4.477.   The services sector, a key component in Japan's economy, accounting for 72% of GDP, is 
broadly open to competition, except in selected areas such as certain broadcasting and medical 
services. One of the main changes during the review period is the regulatory framework for 
financial services, including several amendments to the Banking Act. These ame ndments have 
partially relaxed requirements in respect of agency services and intermediary services for 
foreign  banks.  
4.478.   We should like to end by congratulating Japan and urging it to continue implementing the 
structural reforms needed to improve the functio ning of its economy, and we wish it every success 
in this trade policy review and for the future.  
NEPAL  
4.479.   The d elegation of Nepal wants to subscribe the statement delivered by Cambodia on behalf 
of the LDC Group Coordinator.  
4.480.   As a founding M ember of the WTO, Japan has been a faithful supporter of the multilateral 
trading system  and remains committed to uphold its fundamental values and principles. The role 
played by Japan in the WTO, especially in deriving development outcomes at the Doha 
Development Round for  protecting and promoting interests and concerns of developing and least 
developed Members, is commendable. As one of the largest economies and the fourth largest 
exporter and importer of goods and services, Japan has a profound role to play in strengtheni ng a 
rule-based, transparent, free and fair multilateral trading system.  
4.481.   The Economic performance of Japan during the review period remained not very 
encouraging. However, through the three -pillar strategy of monetary easing, fiscal stimulus and 
structura l reforms, Japan is moving towards a positive direction of recovery. In this respect, the 
current economic policy and strategy popularly known as "Abenomics " has been playing an 
instrumental role in boosting the confidence of the businesses and consumers.  
4.482.   A large number of developing countries, including LDCs , are benefitting from the GSP 
scheme of Japan. For LDCs, Japan has been providing Duty Free Quota Free market access with a 
wide coverage of their products. We encourage Japan to further facilitate DFQ F for LDCs by 
making the rules of origin provisions more transparent and up -to-date in line with the Nairobi 
decision in this respect. Similarly, Japan can play a leading role in the implementation of services 
waiver for the LDCs and can set good examples.   
4.483.   We appreciate that the G overnment o f Japan became the first Member in 2017  to 
contribute to the WTO 's DDA Global Trust Fund (DDA GTF) which is used to support LDCs to 
participate in the trade negotiations.  
4.484.   Nepal appreciates the generous support of Japan  for developing countries and LDCs in Aid 
for Trade. Japan has been an important source of FDI, and the outflow of FDI from Japan is on an 
increasing trend. In a recent "Nepal Investment Summit " held in Kathmandu, investment 
commitment of Japan to Nepal is  highly encouraging.  
4.485.   The relationships between Nepal and Japan are multi -faceted and highly valued from 
political, economic, socio -cultural a nd educational points of view. We want to recall that we 
marked the 60th anniversary on the establishment of diplo matic relations between Nepal and WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  Japan last year by organizing a wide range of events with the presence of high level dignitaries of 
both countries.  
4.486.   Japan is one of the most important partners in Nepal 's development initiatives. We 
commend the continued s upport of the Government of Japan in the socio -economic development 
of Nepal. We anticipate continued flo w of financial and technical co operation in meeting our trade 
capacity building needs and infrastructure development.  
4.487.   Japan is the 8th largest trading  partner for both import and export of Nepal. Nepal exports 
mainly paper products, garment, coffee and tea to Japan while our imports constitute mostly 
motor vehicles, hydraulic turbines, medical instruments and chemicals.  
4.488.   Finally , we commend the role pla yed by Japan in advancing the rules -based open and fair 
multilateral trading system. We wish all success for the achievement of growth targets in the 
economy and consolidate path toward s a full recovery.  
NIGERIA  
4.489.   During the review period, Japan 's economic p erformance remained sluggish in light of, 
among others, low inflation and an aging and declining population. The series of natural disasters 
that hit the country in recent years further hampered the economy and put increased pressure on 
public finances. Th e authorities have responded with extensive policy measures with a view to 
boosting business and consumer confidence and consolidating public finances. The Government 's 
three -pillar strategy of monetary easing, fiscal stimulus, and structural reforms conti nues to be the 
main strategy framework for exiting deflation and revitalizing the country 's economy. We, 
therefor, wish to commend Japan for its efforts to address these challenges.  
4.490.   The institutional framework for general trade policymaking in Japan and it s trade policy 
objectives have remained largely unchanged since its previous review in 2015. Japan has 
participated in all work of the WTO and pursuing domestic reforms to improve its competitiveness. 
Japan deposited its instrument of acceptance of the Tra de Facilitation Agreement (TFA) on 1 June 
2015. Since 1 January 2015, Japan has not been involved in any dispute settlement cases as a 
respondent; it has been involved in 6 cases as a complainant. In this context, Nigeria wishes to 
congratulate Japan for t he efforts to participate in the multilateral trading system.  
4.491.   Nigeria and Japan established diplomatic relations in 1960. Since then, both countries have 
continued to enjoy cordial bilateral relations, which resulted in numerous high -level exchanges and 
visits by our leaders. Last August, on the margin of the 6th TICAD in Nairobi, Kenya, President 
Muhammadu Buhari had fruitful bilateral talks with Prime Minister Chinzo Abe, at which they 
discussed the problems militating against the inflow of Japanese inves tment to Nigeria and they 
agree on a number of issues. In addition, the two countries also share a lot of values and mutual 
interests in areas such as the multilateral trading system and tackling climate change.  
4.492.   Japanese companies have made significant mar k in Nigeria in manufacturing, 
petrochemical, hydro -power plants, among others. Presently, Japan is a major purchaser of 
Nigeria 's liquefied natural gas. We hope that the two countries would continue to cooperate so that 
we can expand the investment opport unities that exist in Nigeria.  
4.493.   As Member of the WTO, Japan has continued to play a leading role in the DDA 
negotiations; Nigeria hopes to continue further collaboration in the negotiations with Japan.  
GEORGIA  
4.494.   Japan is one of the leading economies across th e globe with significant impact on overall 
economic performance, and has a vital importance in relation to the smooth functioning of the 
multilateral trading system.  
4.495.   In light of the depressed economic activities in recent years, caused by persistent low 
inflation alongside with natural disasters and other economic decelerations, Japan 's economic 
performance has been improving with the slower than usual GDP growth.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.496.   In this context, Japan launched a strategy to revitalize country 's economy, which was 
primari ly focused on the implementation of bold monetary policy, flexible fiscal policy and 
introduction of structural reforms. Aforesaid is envisaged to be a guarantee for the increased 
economy and consequent GDP growth by improving business climate, promoting S MEs, enhancing 
country 's integration into the world economy through trade agreements.  
4.497.   I am delighted to stress that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between 
Georgia and Japan in 1992, close cooperation in bilateral and multilateral formats has been 
dynamica lly developing in many areas.  
4.498.   With the support from the Government of Japan, multiple technical assistance program mes 
have been implemented in Georgia within the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) 
framework. They are aimed at th e rehabilitation and development of the economically vital areas 
and I would like to reiterate sincere gratitude for the continuous support.  
4.499.   It is important to note  that despite the geographical distance, there is an active 
cooperation in trade, however, it has to be stressed that bilateral trade data between our states 
does not reflect the real potential we have in this direction. I believe that export and import 
dynamics will be significantly improved in the coming years.  
4.500.   In addition, I would l ike to hi ghlight that, although  overall trade turnover between the two 
countries decreased as compared to last year, there are some positive export tendencies reflected 
in increase of exports of such products as wine, ferroallo ys, crude aluminum and others.  
ISRAEL  
4.501.   Israel and Japan enjoy healthy and strong bilateral ties.  
4.502.   On the trade front, Isr aeli exports to Japan consisting  primarily of polished diamonds, 
chemical products, machinery, electrical equipme nt, and citrus fruit reached US$ 765 million by the 
closing of 2015. In turn , Japanese exports to Israel, consisting primarily of automobiles, 
machinery, electrical equipment, and chemical p roducts amounted to US $1.39 billion. Although our 
trade record is good, there is clearly large potential for growth.   
4.503.   It is in t he science and technology area where the potential is beginning to take hold, as 
Israel and Japan continue fostering strong ties between scientific communities through ongoing 
projects and academic exchanges among universities and specialised research cent res. In fact, in 
2015, pursuant to reciprocal Prime Ministerial visits, Israel and Japan gave a boost to this type of 
collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation for increased research, economic and 
cultural ties, including in the area of security  and research and development. As a result, to give 
but one example, Japan 's New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization and 
Israel 's Innovation Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding developing a framework to 
encourage and suppor t joint R&D projects - which has already delivered joint industrial R&D 
projects. Also , an agreement for the liberaliz ation, promotion and protection of investment 
between Israel and Japan came into force in the period under review.  
4.504.   With regard to Japan 's trade regime, Israel takes note that it has remained broadly 
unchanged since the last review, we note , however , the adjustments in tariffs with increases in 
simple average applied MFN tariff rate from 5.8% to 6.1%, and simple average applied rate for 
agriculture up to 16.3% from 14.9%; and also a decrease from 3.7 to 3.6 % for non -agricultural 
products.  
4.505.   We would like to commend Japan 's efforts towards revitaliz ing its economy by noting that 
even in the midst of adverse global conditions, Japan continues to f ight a persistent low inflation 
and slow economic performance through a market -friendly, multi -pronged, structural policy effort. 
While the implementation of structural reforms continue, we acknowledge that applying changes in 
monetary, fiscal, labour, and  other market -oriented policies take time, we also note that the pace 
has been slower than desirable.  
4.506.   Israel believes that competition policy is an important instrument to provide a level -playing 
field among domestic and foreign competitors, it is in this connection that we are interested in WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  hearing further about Japan 's practice of its Anti -Monopoly Act which provides for several 
exemptions. There are other aspects of Japan 's policy practice in which we are interested in 
hearing Japan 's elaborations, such as the conditions imposed on FDI incoming into Japan, or about 
the breadth and depth of the tax incentives for innovative research activities under the incentive 
framework currently in place. With regard to  public procurement, like other GPA parties, we al so 
share some concern about the level of participation of foreign bidders in Government Procurement 
activities in Japan.  
4.507.   On the negotiations front, we both are parties to plurilateral initiatives such as the 
Information Technology Agreement, Trade in Servi ces Agreement and the Environmental Goods 
Agreement. On the multilateral front, we collaborate closely on a number of matters relating to the 
DDA, as well as notably on agricultural matters in the WTO in the context of the Group of 10 
(G10), and in the Rul es area as Friends of Anti -Dumping Negotiations where Japan is committed to 
enhancing anti -dumping disciplines.  
4.508.   Before concluding, let me stress the important and constructive role that Japan plays in 
maintaining, preserving and reinforcing a healthy rules -based, multilateral trading system. In this 
year we look forward to pursuing and further enhancing our close cooperation with Japan towards 
delivering meaningful results in MC11.  
MOZAMBIQUE  
4.509.   We wish to commend the Government of Japan for the various reform s undertaken which 
led to economic improvements and even though moderate, to the increase of the GDP that is a 
gain and positive performance since the previous Trade Policy Review.  
4.510.   During the period under review, the Japanese Government undertook different  reforms 
aiming at increasing the business environment and a better economic performance, and, despite 
all the efforts, challenges due to global economic environment, was faced.  
4.511.   Mozambique and Japan share friendly relationship and cooperation, being Japan a huge 
partner in the area of food security t hrough the Food Aid Programme. A Bilateral agreement was 
signed and friendly and trade relations also characterise the relations between Japan and 
Mozambique, being some of the goods being traded; Heavy sands, c otton, coal, wood, minerals, 
sea products, machinery, oil, and others.  
4.512.   Japan has been one of the major supporters of development in Mozambique and assisted 
the country for the realization of the Maputo Conference in 2015.  
4.513.   Japan has been extending multifor m assistance to Mozambique, even recently, in assisting 
the Victims of natural disasters, assistance for programmes for the benefit of the local 
Communities, Small and Medium Enterprises, support to productive processes, food aid, technical 
capacity, infra structure development, support for enhancement and diversification of productive 
capacity and exports, agro -processing, these so to mention some.  
4.514.   My delegation would like to seize this opportunity to reiterate gratitude for all the 
assistance provided by t he Government of Japan.  
4.515.   It is with no doubt that Japan will continue to undertake reforms for a more conducive 
business environment, investment, and economic prosperity, and others.  
4.516.   We commend Japan for the participation at the multilateral Forum, and urg e the country to 
continue to play its important role for a more resilient multilateral trading system, strengthened 
WTO, where inclusion, bottom up approach and participation are predominantly observed.  
JORDAN  
4.517.   I would like to start by extending a warm welc ome to  the entire Japanese delegation  and 
to congratulate them for the efforts exerted in the preparation for the trade policy review and 
preparing this report.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  4.518.   We would like to thank the Head of the delegation for his opening statement and detailed 
introd uctory remarks which show the positive developments in the Japanese economy and the 
continued structura l reforms, in addition to Japan' s commitment to the multil ateral trading system . 
I would like also to thank the S ecretariat for their excellent report an d the discussa nt for his 
insightful remarks.  
4.519.   Jordan and Japan enjoy excellent bilateral economic re lations  and bilateral trade in 2015 
exceeded US$620 million.  
4.520.   We wish Japan a fruitful and a successful Trade Policy Review.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE O F JAPAN  AND ADDITIONAL COMME NTS 
5.1.  I would like to thank all the Members for th eir participation in Japan 's TPR on Wednesday as 
well as today.   
5.2.  Thanks to your able chairmanship, Mme Chair, as well as valuable inputs by the Secretariat 
and the excellent prese ntation made by the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Braithwaite, discussions 
on Wednesday and partially today were very substantial reflecting deep insight about Japanese 
economy. They captured a variety of elements from a unique perspective of each Member cov ering 
not only trade relations with Japan but also much broader ones.  
5.3.  I sensed that there were enormous interests about the Japanese economic and trade policies 
and strong expectations on Japan 's continued contributions to the world economy, including 
assisting development of developing counties, as well as to maintaining and strengthening free 
trade and multilateral trading system embodied in the WTO.  
5.4.  I really would like to thank all the interventions made so far, in particular those stating their 
kind en couragement of continuing and enhancing our existing efforts.  
5.5.  Those comments covered the on -going three arrows of Abenomics, in particular structural 
reforms, Japan 's active participation in trade negotiations for enhancing free trade and the 
multilateral trading system, covering bilateral, regional, plurilateral and multilateral levels, and 
works of day -to-day business in different Councils and Committees of the WTO.  Aid for Trade and 
other development assistance and works for a successful MC11 this comin g December were also 
mentioned by many.  
5.6.  Japan here again would like to express our renewed commitment to continue our efforts.  
5.7.  There were also a number of issues or concerns, asking for further improvement. I also would 
like to thank those interventions.  
5.8.  Thrust of discussions, including those points, was reported to the relevant Ministries of the 
Japanese Government in Tokyo for preparations to respond today.  
5.9.  Since the points of interests were so many in numbers and encompass so many different 
sectors, I ma y need to focus those issues which attracted attention of a number of Members.  
5.10.   In any event, Japan will respond, in writing, to all the remaining written questions which 
were submitted later, so that it would be appreciated if delegations could refer to ou r responses in 
writing for their individual questions . 
Macroeconomic policies  
Public debt  
5.11.   Some Members referred to the volume of Japan 's public debt. The Government of Japan has 
established a fiscal consolidation target and a concrete medium -term plan to a chieve the target.  
5.12.   Specifically, our target is to achieve a primary surplus of the central and local governments 
by FY 2020 and to steadily reduce the public debt to GDP ratio thereafter.  
5.13.   Under the above -mentioned fiscal consolidation plan, the Government of Japan is 
undertaking both expenditure and revenue measures. On the expenditure side, the Government of 
Japan will implement a set of reforms based on a comprehensive reform roadmap, and control the 
growth of expenditure, particularly social security exp enditure, in accordance with the 
pre-determined benchmarks. On the revenue side, the Government of Japan will raise 
consumption tax rate in October 2019.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  FDIs 
5.14.   There were comments regarding FDIs into Japan. In Japan, introducing FDI itself is not 
subject t o restrictions in principle. Exceptions are limited to a few sectors, such as aircraft, 
weapons, and nuclear power.  
5.15.   Of course, like in other countries, domestic regulations exist in various sectors where you 
are doing business. According to a survey, howev er, some of the regulations are complicated and 
could be an obstacle for foreigners to do business in Japan.  
5.16.   The Government of Japan, therefore, is making efforts aiming to become "the most 
business -friendly county in the world ". The efforts include regula tory reforms in such fields as 
energy, healthcare and agriculture.  
5.17.   Among a variety of efforts for promoting regulatory reforms, simplification of regulations 
and administrative procedures that affect FDIs into Japan are under consideration in a 
governmenta l working group. This working group adopted an interim report last December and will 
provide a conclusion around this spring.  
5.18.   Regarding the question concerning the measures providing incentives to attract FDIs in the 
field of research and development, the answer is the following. The Government of Japan has 
provided financial assistance on expenses incurred by foreign companies for establishing an R&D 
center, conducting experimental studies and undertaking a feasibility research in collaboration with 
Japane se companies, universities and research institutes. In addition, the Government of Japan 
has improved a living environment in Japan for foreign nationals, through introducing such 
measures as the increase of medical institutions with bilingual staffs and t he educational support 
for foreign children.  
5.19.   Regarding the question concerning the benefits for foreign investors operating in the 
National Strategic Special Zones, special measures in a variety of fields are introduced, with the 
aim of creating the world No. 1 business environment in Japan, where the private sectors can fully 
exercise their potential and, thus, leading to economic growth. Those are special regulatory 
measures, tax reliefs and subsidies.  
5.20.   Specifically, the newly established Tokyo One -Stop Bu siness Establishment Center offers a 
comprehensive support for facilitating procedures related to starting business by global companies . 
The current requirements of resident status for the "Investor/Business Manager " visa category can 
be relaxed in the Nat ional Strategic Special Zones, if an agreement i s reached between the 
national G overnment, local authorities and the relevant private enterprises.  
Trade p olicies  
ITA 
5.21.   Some Members made comments concerning the status of the implementation of the 
Expansion of  the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) in Japan. The Government of Japan has 
submitted the Expansion of  the ITA to the Diet on 24  February this year, and is now waiting for 
approval by the Diet.  
Trade Remedies  
5.22.   Regarding the comments from some Members concerning trade remedies, Japan has 
implemented and will continue to implement, as necessary, those measures in accordance with the 
WTO Agreement.  
Fishery Subsidies  
5.23.   Some Members referred to fisheries subsidies. The purpose of developing the disciplines on  
fisheries subsidies is to achieve and maintain sustainable use of fisheries resources. For this 
purpose, the implementation of effective fisheries management by coastal countries and regional 
fisheries management organizations is primarily important. In t his context, Japan is in a position WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  that the prohibition of fisheries subsidies should address those which cause overcapacity and 
overfishing. In other words, fisheries subsidies which are subject to prohibition should be those 
contributing to fishing acti vities that negatively affect fish stocks that are in an overfished 
condition, and fisheries subsidies provided for IUU, or illegal unreported unregulated, fishing 
vessels.  
Tariff 
5.24.   Concerning the comments on a possible expansion of Japan 's bound tariff line s in the WTO , 
it must be noted that the current tariff -binding coverage in the Japanese schedule in WTO merely 
reflects the previous WTO negotiations including the Uruguay Round. Possible development is 
subject to negotiations in the future, which are not possible for us to make any judgment at this 
stage. Regarding the tariff rates for footwear, those tariff rates are determined appropriately, 
taking the needs of relevant domestic manufacturers into careful consideration.  
Import of Industrial Products  
5.25.   Some  Members made comments regarding the difficulties in exporting industrial products 
such as automobiles to Japan. Since the Government of Japan neither imposes tariffs on imported 
automobiles nor implements discriminatory measures by any means including non -tariff barriers, 
we recognize Japan 's automobile market is sufficiently open.  
Preferential Rules of Origin  
5.26.   Regarding the preferential rules of origin for LDCs, Japan  has communicated  its status of 
implementation  according to the  MC10 Ministerial Decision in the communication submitted to the 
Committee on Rules of Origin dated 20 December 2016 ( document G/RO/81). Japan is prepared to 
conduct a detailed examination on its implementation of the Ministerial Decision on preferential 
rules of origin for LDCs.  
Customs p rocedures  
5.27.   Several Members commented on the development of Japan 's Authorized Economic Operator 
(AEO) program as well as a mutual recognition arrangement on AEOs.  
5.28.   The recent revision of the Customs Law of Japan allows AEO importers, exporters and 
customs brokers to file an import/export declaration to any Customs office in Japan regardless of 
the location of their goods. Japan expects this will be a new benefit for AEOs and, therefore, will 
serve as an incentive to become an AEO.  
5.29.   Japan has mutual rec ognition arrangements on AEOs with eight WTO Members. Consultation 
is also in progress for the possibility of future mutual recognition arrangement with three  WTO 
Members. In order to promote trade facilitation further, Japan will be actively engaged in 
promoting AEO mutual recognitions.  
Agriculture  
5.30.   Japan appreciates many Members ' comments on Japan 's agricultural policy.  
Japan 's import of agricultural p roducts  
5.31.   At the outset, while maintaining foundation for agricultural production, Japan imports a 
large amo unt of agricultural products from abroad. Specifically, the net import of agricultural 
products in 2013 was US$58.2 billion, which was the second largest in the world, thus, 
contributing to the development of world food exporters ' economies.  
Trade m easures  on agricultural p roducts  
5.32.   A number of Members mentioned agricultural support and protection of agricultural 
industries in Japan. Japan 's existing measures on agricultural products, including tariffs of various 
levels, TRQ administration, state trading as w ell as domestic support are all consistent with the WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  WTO Agreement. Regarding TRQs, the administrating method is determined based on the 
characteristics of each product. Japan is making utmost efforts so that the quota allocation and its 
administration are conducted in a fair and transparent manner, including making those operations 
public through WTO notifications and Government website. Regarding domestic support, Japan has 
reviewed its market price support policies and introduced and expanded direct payme nts. 
Notifications  
5.33.   Regarding the notifications of domestic support pointed out by some Members, Japan has 
notified the WTO of the data up to FY2012. The notification of the data for the following year is 
under preparation and Japan will do its best to subm it the data within the first half of this year.  
Wood  
5.34.   Regarding a comment concerning the Law related to legally -harvested wood, related 
ordinances for implementing the Law are currently under preparation. Japan will implement the 
Law consistently with the W TO Agreement.  
Agricultural r eform  
5.35.   Japan also noted comments on the agricultural reform from a number of Members. As I 
explained on Wednesday, robust agricultural reform is under way. For example, the Government of 
Japan revised "the Basic Plan for Food, Ag riculture and Rural Areas " in March 2015. This Plan sets 
out the objectives of increasing incomes in the agriculture sector and rural areas by increasing 
domestic and export demand, improving value chains and promoting structural reform.  
5.36.   Especially, as for  increasing exports of agricultural products, the Government established 
"the Plan for Empowering Export on Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries " in May 2016, in order to 
promote consumption of Japanese agricultural, forestry and fishery products in the glo bal market.  
5.37.   In addition, the Government is committed to implement further reforms, including through 
cost reduction of production materials and structural reforms in the distribution sector, with a view 
to enhancing the competitiveness of Japanese agricult ure. 
SPS/ TBT 
SPS 
5.38.   There was a concern raised on Japan 's SPS measures on the imports of agricultural 
products. The Government of Japan establishes food standards on the basis of sound science and 
is making efforts to harmonize them with relevant internationa l standards. For example, the 
Government of Japan takes into account the Codex standards whenever reviewing Maximum 
Residue Limits (MRLs) for agricultural chemicals and food additive standards, in accordance with 
Article 3.1 of the WTO SPS Agreement. The G overnment of Japan, when necessary, sets food 
standards which are different from the Codex standards but those are based on scientific evidence. 
These measures are consistent with Article 3.3 of the SPS Agreement.  
5.39.   As for importing animal products mentioned  by some Members, a decision of lifting an 
import ban in the case of an animal disease outbreak and a decision of regional application of an 
import ban are determined by the Government of Japan based on a risk assessment which is 
conducted on a scientific basis. All the relevant procedures are in line with the OIE code and are 
fully consistent with the WTO SPS Agreement.  
5.40.   Such a risk assessment can only be conducted with necessary information, which is provided 
by the countries requesting to lift the ban. Ri sk assessment and the following decisions, including 
the application of regionalization, are proceeded smoothly when suff icient information is provided.  
TBT 
5.41.   Comments were also made regarding the TBT measures and their compliance with 
international standard s. The measures of Japan are, in general, based on relevant international WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  standards, to the maximum extent possible, in accordance with the TBT Agreement. Those 
measures are under constant review with a view to harmonizing them with relevant international 
standards. The Government of Japan will continue its endeavo ur. 
Services  
Exemption of the Anti -Monopoly Law  
5.42.   Some Members made comments regarding insurance, maritime and air transport services, 
which are currently exempted from the application of Japan 's Anti-Monopoly Law, in particular on 
the possibility of reviewing these exemptions. Through a series of Cabinet Decisions since 1994, 
the Government of Japan confirmed its position that, in prin ciple, exemptions from the 
Anti-Monopoly Law should be abolished.  In fact,  Anti-Monopoly Law was amended three  times (in 
1997, 1999 and 2000) to disestablish exemptions and streamline procedures. As for the insurance 
and maritime service industries, the Government of Japan has no concrete plan for the next review 
at pre sent. As for the air transport services, the Government of Japan considers to review the 
exemption continuously with monitoring relevant factors such as other countries ' policy positions 
on the exemptions and the effects on the marketplace.  
Transparency of  regulations  
5.43.   Comments were made on transparency of regulations in services, such as air and maritime 
transport services. The regulatory measures in those fields, as in other service sectors, are 
operated and/o r implemented in a transparent  manner. All the laws and regulations are , and will 
continue to be , published in the Official Gazette and are also made available on the internet.  
Broadcasting s ervice  
5.44.   Some Members made comments on the treatment of broadcasting service in Japan 's 
services schedule. This se rvice engages in conveying information to many and unspecified users 
via limited scarce spectrum, which has a considerable social impact and thus has a significant 
influence on culture and the society of Japan. Therefore, the regulation policy on this serv ice 
should be decided with flexibility in response to changing environment surrounding broadcasting 
industry, such as social situations, technical development and cultural and social aspect of Japan. 
As such, the broadcasting sector is out of our commitmen t since changes in the future 
circumstances would create the necessity to introduce additional measures.  
Government p rocurement  
5.45.   Many Members touched upon Japan 's Government procurement. Japan is a Party to the 
plurilateral Government Procurement Agreement (GPA). Japan 's government procurement, 
including procedures of tenders, is conducted in a transparent and competitive manner in 
accordance with the GPA. This is the case for procurement of both central and sub -central 
governments. The fact that foreign par ticipation in Japan 's government procurement remained 
around 3% in value in 2014 merely reflected the results of the tenders which had been conducted 
in a transparent and impartial manner.  
5.46.   Japan is making improvement in its government procurement procedur es, and some 
Members referred to the introduction of "multiple -award tendering " as a positive step forward. In 
May 2016, "multiple -award tendering " became applicable to procurement by the local 
governments listed in Annex 2 of the GPA. Such local governmen ts may apply "multiple -award 
tendering " in cases where it procures a large quantity of goods o r services. Since the 
"multiple -award tendering " had already been introduced by the central government, both central 
and sub -central governments are able to apply  "multiple -award tendering " to procurement 
implemented under the GPA. Conditions for participating in each procurement project are defined 
under the GPA and the relevant laws and regulations  of Japan.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  Development  
LDC-DFQF  
5.47.   Comments were made concerning the  duty free quota free (DFQF) for LDCs. Japan has 
granted enhanced market access of DFQF for 98% of products originating from all LDCs, which is 
higher than the level agreed by the WTO Hong Kong Ministerial Declaration in 2005. There are only 
some exempted items, taking into account sensitivities for domestic industries, and the 
sustainability of exhaustible natural resources. Therefore, Japan will need careful examination on 
the possibility of further expanding the product coverage of DFQF on LDCs.  
LDC serv ices waiver  
5.48.   Some Members made comments regarding the LDC services waiver. As for the LDC services 
waiver, Japan shares a basic philosophy of the WTO Agreement which acknowledges the need for 
"positive efforts designed to ensure that developing countries, e specially the least developed 
among them, secure a share in the growth in international trade commensurable  with the needs of 
their economic development. " 
5.49.   On the basis of that, Japan submitted in 2015 its preferential services treatments for LDCs 
which inc lude GATS plus commitments on the movement of natural persons.  
5.50.   For the measures concerning visas, residence permits and licensing applications which were 
mentioned in the meeting, careful management with appropriate frameworks is required from 
diverse view points, including border protection, sound development of labour market and 
appropriate quality of services to be supplied. Regarding "work permits ", there is no legal 
framework of "work permits " in Japan. Certain working activities of foreigners can be ad mitted, 
however, in the existing framework of "residence permits ". 
Inefficient fossil fuel s ubsidies  
5.51.   Comments were made regarding the reform of inefficient fossil fuel subsidies (IFFS) and the 
G20 peer review process. The Government of Japan supports the G 20 peer review process from 
the perspective of promoting reforms on inefficient fossil fuel subsidies (IFFS), Japan welcomes the 
outcome and the lessons learned from the past reviews. As the Government of Japan has no 
inefficient fossil fuel subsidies (IFF S) that encourages wasteful consumption, our understanding is 
that Japan is not among the priority countries for the review, Japan would consider participating in 
the peer review team to review a third country as far as necessary resources are available.  
5.2  Conclusion  
5.52.   I would like to conclude my remarks by thanking you, Mme Chair, Ambassador Braithwaite , 
the Secretariat and all the Members for their contributions to making this 13th review of Japan a 
productive one. We hope that Japan also was able to contribu te to thi s important exercise in the 
WTO. Thank you.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.53.   I would like to begin by thanking Mr . Tomochika U yama , Deputy Director General of the 
Economic Affairs Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ambassador Junichi I hara, and the 
entire Japanese delegation, for the important work they have carried out on the occasion of the 
13th Trade Policy Review of Japan.  
5.54.   In the course of this r eview, Members recogniz ed Japan 's leading role in the global economy 
and the multilateral trading system. Jap an's commitment to moving forward multilateral 
negotiations and to engaging in plurilateral negotiations was commended by al l.  
5.55.   This was reinforced by the large number of statements (I counted 56 on behalf of individual 
WTO Members and groups – covering a significant portion of the total Membership) as well as 
questions addressed to the Japanese delegation in the course of thi s Trade Policy Review.   WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  5.56.   There is no doubt as to Japan 's respect for its commitments, and several Members praised 
the country for the  stability and predictability of its trade policy despite a challenging 
macroeconomic environment and its ongoing recovery efforts from the natural disasters which 
have occurred in recent years. Japan was also commended for its continued vocal efforts to f ight 
protectionism in APEC, the G7 and G20 among others.  
5.57.   Members, both developing and developed, spoke of the importance of their bilateral 
relations, whether based on preferential regional agreements, bilateral cooperation agreements or 
technical assistan ce and financial support programmes. Several Members noted a reduction in 
bilateral trade volumes in recent years and expressed their desire for  continued dialogue with 
Japan to examine ways of revitaliz ing their bilateral trading links.  
5.58.   Many congratulated  Japan on their commitment to development assistance and the Aid -for-
Trade initiative. A number of Members raised last year 's TICAD VI Conference, which took place in 
Nairobi, Kenya. This was the first time a TICAD conference had taken place on African soi l and 
brought together 32 African Heads of State and Government together with Prime Minister Abe. 
Japan 's commitment to investing in the fu ture of Africa is encouraging.  
5.59.   A full examination of the economic reforms that Japan is undertaking as part of 
"Abenomics ", goes beyond the trade policy framework that the WTO is mandated to consider, 
nevertheless importance of the "three arrows " was emphasiz ed by many Members.  
5.60.   The scale of the task Japan has set itself to restore economic growth and address an aging 
population should not be underestimated. Promoting the role of women and the elderly in the 
workforce is an important part of these plans and will have long -term benefits including enhancing 
social cohesion and boosting Japan 's economy through increased con sumption. Although this is 
being done in the context of the "Fourth Industrial Revolution ", how Japan adapts to the further 
automation of manufacturing processes and services will be crucial t o the success of these 
reforms.  
5.61.   Having examined Members ' advance  questions and the statements made during the review 
on Wednesday, my conclusion is that the concerns raised show behind the border measures and 
agriculture to b e of great interest to Members:  
 I noted that standards and conformity procedures were frequentl y presented as a barrier to 
the entry and establishment of FDI, an objective which is  being pursued by the Japanese 
Government within the framework of the "Growth Strate gy 2016 ". This is also true of 
government procurement in respect of which certain Membe rs noted the low level of 
participation of foreign firms and the importance of a transparent bidding and tendering 
process .  
 Regarding agriculture, Members noted that despite the ongoing reforms in the sector, 
Japan 's high tariffs on agriculture and domest ic support measures were described by some 
Members as distortive. This is coupled with a regime of sanitary and phytosanitary standards 
that certain Members consider an additional restriction on market access. In particular, there 
were calls for alignment with international standa rds and improved transparency.  
 Turning to the WTO, Members also encouraged Japan to implement the Expansion of the 
Information Technology Agreement and to continue to play a proactive role in negotiations 
ahead of the 11th Ministe rial Conference in Buenos Aires,  particularly with regards to 
e-commerce and fisheries subsidies.  
5.62.   I welcome the remarks made by Mr . Uyama earlier today  in response to these concerns.  
5.63.   I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Japanese delegation fo r having replied to 
so many Member s' questions in advance and encourage Japan to continue this dialogue with t he 
Members concerned.  
5.64.   The Japanese authorities have a great task ahead of them with the need to implement the 
"Growth Strategy 2016 " and achieving  the targets set out in their "Plan for Dynamic Engagement WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  of All Citizens ". I am sure that Members are looking forward to the next Trade Policy Review of 
Japan in orde r to examine the progress made.  
5.65.   I would like to thank once again the Japanese delegation  for the opportunity to act as 
discussant for their review this week. It has been an honour.  Thank you.  
KINGDOM  OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
5.66.   The period of review has been marked by significant adversities. Japan has had to address 
the consequences of natural disasters,  aging population, large public debt and low inflation. The 
country 's main bet is to focus on ending the prolonged period of deflation and revitalizing the 
Japanese economy through comprehensive economic policy program mes with a view to boosting 
business a nd consumer confidence and consolidating public finances.  
5.67.   On the macro economic fr ont: Japan 's highly industrializ ed market economy is the third -
largest in the world. Despite the slow economic performance during the review period, Japan 's 
economy remains re silient, open and transparent. According to OECD 's 2016 economic forecast; 
the country 's GDP growth is expected to increase to above 1.2% in 2017 and 1.9% in 2018 due to 
the rebound in international trade which will help drive Japan 's export growth higher over the next 
two years.  
5.68.   Japan is to be recognized for its ambitious overall economic and financial reforms, 
particularly under the three -pillar strategy of monetary easing, fiscal stimulus, and structural 
reforms in areas such as agriculture, energy, and healthcare. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 
commends Japan for these reforms especially in the field of the financial services and 
telecommunication and trusts that these reforms will contribute to sustainable economic 
development for the direct benefit of its  population. We have sent a question to Japan regarding 
some telecommunication 's measures. We will be happy to receive Japan 's reply to this question.  
5.69.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Japan are prominent trading partners. Both countries have 
significantly e xpanded their cooperation in investment, small and medium -sized enterprises, 
general industry, security, and education. Trade exchange between the two countries s urpassed 
US$32 billion in 2015.  
5.70.   The visit of the Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to T okyo in September 2016 
underscored the strong bilateral ties and cooperation between the two countries. From the Saudi 
Government 's perspective, Japan is a potential partner to help Saudi Arabia achieve its Vision 
2030 in a variety of fields, such as finan ce, industry, development of business and Public -Private 
Partnerships.  
5.71.   The two countries ' relationship has deepened also in the financial sector. The Japan Bank for 
International Cooperation, Japan External Trade Organization, and Ministry of Economy, Trad e and 
Industry all play an active role to assist the kingdom in a mutually beneficial relationship.  
5.72.   Over the period of review, Japan has continued to play a central role in the reinforcement of 
the multilateral trading system and has been active in bilate ral and plurilateral trade negotiations . 
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.73.   Let me first thank Mr . Uyama  and the Japanese d elegation for the comprehensive overview 
of the recent economic developments in Japan presented on Wednesday and the detailed , 
comprehensive  and very interesting statement . It provided an excellent opportunity to gain a 
better understanding of the economic context in Japan, to assess the trade and investment climate 
and provide the Membership with the possibilit y to give input on how it could be improved.  
5.74.   The EU also appreciates the timely replies provided to our written questions . In this regard, 
I would like to particularly thank Japan for having opted for the alternative timeframe, which gives 
more time for Members to study the replies in advance of the  meeting. In this context, the EU 
shares Japan 's view expressed on Wednesday that – despite of excellent Chairmanship - the 
results of the 6th appraisal of the TPRM could have been more ambitious.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  5.75.   Based on the comments of a large number of Japanese tradin g partners, the EU notes that 
all Members valued Japan as a bilateral trading partner, they acknowledged its strong su pport for 
the multilateral trading  system and for the fight against rising protectionism. The EU also counts 
on the usually constructive a ttitude of Japan in working towards a successful outcome at the 11th 
Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires. We took good note of the comments of Japan expressed 
today, notably regarding fishery subsidies and agriculture.  
5.76.   The EU recogniz es and values the support of Japan for the WTO peer review system of 
Trade Policy Reviews and Trade Monitoring. This TPR demonstrates clearly how seriously Japan 
takes these obligations .  
5.77.   Furthermore, the EU also shares Japan 's view on the importance of Trade and Developmen t 
and of the role of the Economic Partnership Agreements ( "EPAs"). We welcom e the statement by 
the Head of d elegation on Japan 's intention to conclude the bilateral FTA negotiations with us as 
soon as possible.  
5.78.   Finally, the EU shares Members ' view that whi le the Abenomics strategy has led to 
important improvements, the macroeconomic situation remains challenging and it encourages 
Japan to show more ambition on the structural reforms in order to facilitate foreign investment 
and to open markets, especially a s regards agriculture and government procurement.  
5.79.   The EU has submitted a few follow -up questions on certification for imported products, the 
new labelling standard on wine, geographical indications in relation to "made in Japan " and 
transparency in governm ent procurement. We thank Japan in advance for the replies.  
UNITED  STATES   
5.80.   We would again like to thank Deputy Director General Uyama, Ambassador Ihara and the 
entire Japanese delegation for their constructive and diligent efforts in Japan 's Trade Policy 
Review. It has been good to see familiar faces back in Geneva.  
5.81.   We appreciate the thought that , in preparing the statement that we just heard this morning 
from Mr. Uyama , the Japanese delegation has clearly listened carefully during this review and we 
apprec iate the reflections offered in the response ' statement.  
5.82.   Again, we also thank Japan for providing written answers to our questions. We did submit 
one follow -up question regarding how Japan classifies the country of origin of a locally established 
subsidiar y of a foreign company for the purposes of government procurement  contracts . We look 
forward to receiving a reply . 
5.83.   It has been particularly interesting for us to observe some common themes both from 
Members ' statement s and the views of our discussant. We h ave taken particular note of calls for 
Japan to implement its ITA expansion commitments without further delay, concerns about the 
level of market protection in Japan 's agricultural sector, the proliferation of non -tariff barriers, 
including in the automoti ve sector, among other broad themes.  
5.84.   Washington follows these and other issues with great interest and we appreciate the 
Government of Japan 's attention to these and other issues raised this week. We look forward to 
remaining engaged bilaterally on these i ssues.  
5.85.   We have also taken note in particular this morning of Japan 's assurances that it views its 
approach on trade remedy measures as being consistent with WTO rules. This is a useful response 
this morning to assertions on this topic made during the first  day of the TPR.  
5.86.   In closing, let me congratulate the team from Japan on this successful TPR and perhaps 
special congratulations that you now have three rather than two years to prepare for your next 
TPR subject to confirmation by the General Council. In an y case, we look forward to our continued 
cooperation  both bilaterally and here at the WTO with this very valuable partner. Best wishes to 
those returning to Tokyo.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
5.87.   First of all, the Separa te Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu wishes to 
thank the team from Japan under the leadership of the Deputy Director -General Tomochika Uyama 
for the replies it has given to our written questions, as well as for its contribution to this morning's 
meeting and the exercise taking place this week which has been under preparation for several 
months. This was an excellent trade policy review. We hope that the views expressed by the 
Members during the review will help the Japanese government in  pursuing its economic reforms.  
5.88.   Lastly, in conclusion, we pay tribute to the efforts of the Permanent Mission of Japan under 
the leadership of H.E.  Ambassador Ihara. We also thank the discussant, H.E.  Ambassador Julian 
Braithwaite, for his highly pertinent  observations.  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA   
5.89.   Hong Kong, China would like to join others in thanking Mr. Uyama for his remarks this 
morning, many of which touched on issues of interest to us. We would also like to extend our 
thanks to the entire Japanese delegation for  the very hard work. We had the chance to review the 
responses to our questions and we are impressed with their completeness . 
5.90.   We can confirm that we have no follow -up questions to raise at this stage so congratulations 
again to all for a job well done.  
CHINA 
5.91.   Our delegation would like to briefly make some follow -up comments. First of all, we take 
note of Japan 's response regarding its practice on future remedy cases and I think it would be 
necessary to reiterate China 's position. China will protect its legit imate rights and interests firmly 
through all means available in this Organization to any violations of WTO rules by Members.  
5.92.   China thanks the Japanese delegation for the written replies to China 's advance written 
questions. China submitted an additional l ist of 86 questions during the meeting of Japan 's TPR 
which include  many of China 's key concerns regarding Japan 's trade -related policies and practices. 
China was not able to submit them  four weeks  before Japan 's TPR due to the Spring Festival 
holiday whic h is regarded by the Chinese as the most important festival of the year. China looks 
forward to receiving the replies from Japan to these questions.  
5.93.   Finally, I wish the Japanese delegation a safe and a pleasant journey home.  
KAZAKHSTAN  
5.94.   We would like to not e the achievements in the economic and fiscal policies undertaken by 
the Government of Japan which promoted notable GDP growth and growth in various sectors of 
the economy of Japan during recent years.  
5.95.   Japan 's valuable assistance in capacity building effor ts in developing countries has been also 
most notable through net participation in the aid for trade initiative.  
5.96.   Regarding the bilateral trade and economic relations between our countries, I would like to 
note that the Joint Commission between the Governme nts and private sector s of Kazakhstan and 
Japan has been established and functioning as of December 1993.  Currently, there are around 
25 joint investment projects, worth more than US$4 billion , which are being implemented between 
our countries in such stra tegic sectors of the economy as energy, transportation, logistics, 
engineering and information communication technologies.  
5.97.   In 2016, the trade turnover between our countries has reached US$1.1 billion. I believe 
there is still major underutilized potential to strengthen  trade and investment relations between 
our countries. Japan is an important strategic partner for Kazakhstan and there is a bright future 
for further enhancing trade and economic cooperation.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  5.98.   I also would like to use  this opportunity to thank  the Government of Japan and personally  
Mr. Uyama for the continuous support which has been provided to the Government of Kazakhstan 
in its accession to the World Trade Organization. I would like to congratulate the delegation of 
Japan on a successful Trad e Policy Review.  
CANADA  
5.99.   We would also like to thank Japan for the all work that has evidently gone into participating 
in this review. We also thank you, Madam Chair, and Ambassador Braithwaite  for you r able 
stewardship  of the review and insightful commenta ry that has been provided.  
5.100.   We appreciate Japan 's decision to adopt the alternative TPR timeline which improves the 
quality of the dialogue between the Member being reviewed and the members hip. We look forward 
to continuing to strengthen  our economic relati onship with Japan in this and in other fora.  
5.101.   Finally, we look forward to receiving responses from Japan to the two follow -up questions 
that we have posed regarding TRQ administration and government procurement.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Jap an 
 
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  6  CONCLUDING RE MARKS BY THE CHAIRPE RSON  
6.1.  The t hirteenth Trade Policy Review of Japan has been a good opportunity for Members to 
discuss recent developments in the country 's economic, trade and investment policies and their 
implications for international trade. Such a fruitful dialogue would not have b een possible without 
the constructive engagement of the Japanese delegation led by Mr. Tomochika Uyama ; their team 
in Geneva headed by Ambassador Junichi Ihara ; our discussant, H.E. Ambassador Julian 
Braithwaite from the United Kingdom; and all those Membe rs who had participated in this 
exercise.  
6.2.  Japan is the world 's 4th largest importer and exporter of goods and services, and a highly 
valued trading partner for many WTO Members. Several delegations also pointed out that Japan 
played a leading role in manuf acturing and innovation, and in many global value chains. It is 
therefore important that Japan has an economic environment that is conducive to trade.  
6.3.  During the period under review, Japan continued to face serious economic and demographic 
challenges: slow  GDP growth, low inflation and budget deficits persisted, while imports and 
exports declined, against a backdrop of an aging and shrinking population. To address these 
challenges, Members encouraged Japan to continue pursuing the "three arrows " of Abenomic s, in 
particular the structural reforms that would allow Japan to further liberalize trade and remove 
non-tariff barriers. In response, the Japanese del egation assured Members of its G overnment 's 
determination to revitalize its economy and generate a new m omentum of growth. Members were 
pleased to note that reforms were under way in various sectors, including agriculture, and they 
commended Japan 's efforts to increase women 's participation in the workforce.  
6.4.  In his opening remarks, Ambassador Ihara pointed o ut that there was wide -spread 
uncertainty and growing mistrust in trade. In such difficult times, Members appreciated Japan 's 
firm commitment to the multilateral trading system and to trade liberalization. Many Members 
commended the prominent and construct ive role that Japan had played in the multilateral and 
plurilateral negotiations within the WTO, notably as the chair that concluded the expanded 
Information Technology Agreement. Now that the Agreement has been submitted to the Diet in 
Japan, Members look  forward to its early implementation. Many developing countries, including 
LDCs, appreciated Japan 's development assistance and preferen tial schemes including its 
duty-free, quota -free scheme, and support for aid for trade.  
6.5.  Beyond the WTO, Members noted Ja pan's intention to actively pursue economic partnership 
and investment agreements which could complement the multilateral trading system in promoting 
free trade. Clarifications were sought on the way forward for preferential agreements including the 
Trans -Pacific Partnership and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.  
6.6.  Meanwhile, the inflow of foreign direct investment into Japan remained modest. While 
Members noted Japan 's recent initiatives to attract FDI, concerns had been expressed abo ut 
certain market access issues, for example, the stringent regulatory framework which made it 
difficult for foreign and local pharmaceutic companies to form joint ventures. Similarly, while 
Members congratulated Japan on recent reforms to facilitate the p articipation of small and medium 
enterprises in government procurement, they also saw room for improvement in the bidding 
process, as well as the administrative procedures and practices, to allow for more transparency 
and foreign competition. In general, M embers would like to see a more predictable investment 
regime, better corporate governance, and business -friendly regulations. In that connection, it is 
encouraging to hear from Mr. Uyama that his Government aims at making Japan "the most 
business -friendly  country in the world ". 
6.7.  Regarding specific trade policy measures, many Members acknowledged Japan 's efforts to 
streamline customs procedures, such as the Authorized Economic Operators programme. Members 
also commended Japan for its predictable tariff regim e, which had a binding coverage of more than 
98% and a negligible difference between the average bound and applied rates. Nonetheless, 
concerns were raised regarding the relatively high tariffs for agriculture products and some 
industrial goods. Members en couraged Japan to reduce tariff peaks, bind all its tariff lines, and 
further simplify its tariff structure. Commenting on SPS and TBT measures, some Members said 
their exporters were subject to high compliance costs, mainly because some of the Japanese 
requirements were more rigorous than international standards.  WT/TPR/M/351 • Japan  
 
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  6.8.  In the area of intellectual property, Members noted that companies had suffered significant 
economic loss due to infringement of their IP rights. They encouraged Japan to step up 
enforcement effo rts to combat counterfeiting. Members also showed interest in Japan 's recent 
patent reform, the new trade secrets law, and the level of protection for geographical indications.  
6.9.  In terms of sectoral trade policies, agriculture was still the sector attractin g the most 
attention. While some Members appreciated Japan 's recent initiatives to reform the cooperatives 
system and land tenure, Members also expressed concern about the many protective measures 
still in place, such as high tariffs, price and import cont rols, and high levels of domestic support, 
which could be trade -distorting and creating significant market access barriers. Members urged 
Japan to enhance the transparency of its agricultural policies by, inter alia , submitting timely 
notifications; and to  press ahead wi th reforms which would liberaliz e trade in this sector.  
6.10.   Another sector highlighted in this review was the energy sector, where some Members 
commended Japan for promoting renewable energies in lieu of fossil fuels, and for deregulating its 
electricity and gas markets. As regards services, Members noted that the market was largely open, 
and were interested in the recent reforms in banking and telecommunications. Individual Members 
had expressed concerns about protective measures in specific se ctors such as automotive, aircraft 
manufacturing, insurance, air and maritime transport, broadcasting, accounting and visa -related 
issues concerning professionals.  
6.11.   In his statement just now, Mr. Uyama has responded comprehensively to key issues raised 
by Members. Japan has also provided answers to almost all advance written questions raised by 
Members. We look forward to Japan 's replies to all outstanding questions in a month 's time, which 
will then mark the successful conclusion of this TPR.  
6.12.   Finally, I wi sh to close this meeting by referring to what Ambassador Ihara had said at the 
beginning of the meeting, that the TPRM has its very effective soft power , which is the power to 
help Members evaluate and improve their own trade policies, and the reby strengthen the 
multilateral trading system. I hope Japan also finds its 13th TPR useful in this sense, and I look to 
Japan 's continuous support to the TPRM in the future.  
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