We recognize that it is a politically sensitive sector in Japan. However, we must find ways to liberalize trade in agriculture in a manner that provides fair access to foreign firms, saves consumers money and enhances public confidence in food security. The APEC Leaders in Auckland in 1999 endorsed a proposal of their Business Advisory Council to improve rural infrastructure, disseminate technological advances in food production, and expanded trade in agricultural products. Third, we need to address cross-cutting issues such as transparency and competition policy. Increasing public access to decision makers and improving the public's ability to participate meaningfully in the government decisions that affect their businesses and their lives will make better public policy that enjoys wider support.
Japan needs to build stronger competition policy.
Increasingly, we see trade problems with Japan that involve competition policy issues. The Japan Fair Trade Commission must be an effective and independent real promoter and protector of competition in all sectors of the economy. These are our goals. Let me turn now to Japan's. I do not think it would be presumptuous of an American Ambassador to cite five that Japan has already set for itself.