Japan Seeks Participation In Massive Free Trade Zone But Still Wants Automotive Import Restrictions

The Japanese government on Friday asked to join trade talks aimed at creating a massive free trade zone of at least 11 nations including the United States, Canada and Mexico — a move that could have dramatic implications for the U.S. auto industry.

"Emerging countries in Asia are shifting to an open economy one after another. If Japan alone remains an inward-looking economy, there would be no chance for growth," Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told a news conference in Tokyo, according to media reports in Japan, where he announced the world's third largest economy would ask to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership talks. "This is our last chance. If we miss this opportunity, Japan will be left behind."'

The American Automotive Policy Council, which represents Detroit's Big Three automakers, urged the Obama administration not to let Japan join the talks.

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ParadoX - 3/15/2013 12:07:48 PM

-1 Boost

You will never get the Japanese to budge on automotive policy. It is their largest export. They wouldn't want their auto companies harmed. I think it would be wise to establish a FTA with them and let them have that caveat. The other benefits to the US economy would be worth that caveat.

Dr550 - 3/15/2013 3:45:24 PM

-1 Boost

Auto import restrictions in addition to agricultural (rice) restrictions! No damn way. U.S. needs to flex muscle with growing threat of Chinese and North Korean military to Japanese interest. That being said, U.S. negotiators will probably give in to these restrictions.

Fijian - 3/15/2013 4:00:20 PM

-2 Boost

Americans are too dumb to see the Scam. Isn't this the same country that bombed us for no reason in Pearl Harbour? Even the Chinese are buying less Japanese cars in China just because of a Territorial dispute.All 4 of the cars in my home are American and I migrated here.

Fijian - 3/15/2013 5:35:56 PM

-1 Boost

How about artificially manipulating their currency. Also how many Japanese do you see driving an American Car. Do not tell me they are more reliable.I will agree they have the most recalls. Even Boing got screwed for going with Yuasa battery on the 787. Serve them right.

HughJass - 3/15/2013 7:57:43 PM

+2 Boost

So we're pissed we can't sell a handful of cars to Japan (they probably don't even want to buy our cars) yet are happily sending $60 billion worth of IOUs a month to China, the country we're most likely to go to war with next?

I think I'd rather humour the Japs since we'll be using their country to kick some Walmart ass instead of wrecking California and Hawaii.