Western Growers Applauds Trade Agreement Between U.S. and Japan
IRVINE, CA - The U.S. has been going back and forth with many countries lately concerning trade agreements. Last week, we reported on the tomato trade with Mexico. Today, we’re bringing updates on the trade deal with Japan. Western Growers President and CEO Tom Nassif released a statement expressing his approval and support for the recent decision.
“Western Growers extends its appreciation to President Trump for his leadership on the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement, which opens up real market opportunities for producers of fresh fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts,” Nassif began. “Our members will now have access to the Japanese market on equal footing with the Asia-Pacific signatories of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.”
President Donal Trump and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s talks began at the most recent G-7 summit back in August. At the time, no formal agreement was made. U.S. News reports that the limited trade deal will eliminate tariffs and expand market access on farm, industrial, and digital products.
“Japan is the third-largest market for American agricultural products, and the elimination of tariffs on produce products such as almonds, blueberries, walnuts, broccoli, and prunes—as well as the staged tariff elimination for additional products like cherries and oranges—will result in significant export opportunities for our members and the broader fresh produce industry,” continued Nassif.
According to President Trump, the first stage of the accord will open markets up to about $7 billion in U.S. agricultural products. Reuters also reported that the two nations intend to conclude their trade consultations within about four months and to refrain from actions “against the spirit” of an initial agreement.
“We are also pleased to learn that President Trump and Prime Minister Abe have agreed to further negotiations to address the remaining non-tariff barriers to trade. Historically, Japan has used non-scientific sanitary and phytosanitary standards to prohibit many high-quality U.S. fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts from entering the Japanese market. Therefore, to ensure the market gains secured in the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement are fully realized, we must continue to push for reform of the Japanese importation system,” concluded Nassif.
As more details continue to be finalized, AndNowUKnow will continue to report.
