Looking ahead, we call on the Honourable Members of the European Parliament’s to provide their consent and support for a swift and successful ratification of the agreement at the final plenary vote in December.
Japan is among the strategic export destinations for EU agri-food products, with further potential for growth. The elimination of tariffs and non-tariff barriers agreed with Japan, the protection of European geographical indications (GIs), and future cooperation on agriculture and food related matters will create new opportunities and help to better respond to changing consumer demands in each other’s economies. The agreement will also enhance the sector’s competitiveness in the dynamic Asia-Pacific region. Last but not least, the opportunities of the EU-Japan EPA should also be recognised in the broader economic context and considered as an important signal to promote rules-based international trade.
*For further information on the benefits of the EU-Japan EPA for the EU agri-food sector please consult our infographic here.