Donohue Meets With Prime Minister Noda, Offers Support for Japan’s Entry Into TPP

WASHINGTON, D.C.—During a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda and several U.S. business leaders today at Blair House, U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue offered his support for Japan’s entry into the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPP) under its current comprehensive terms and high standards.

“Japan’s entry would be a unique and game changing opportunity for TPP, for U.S.-Japan strategic and economic relations, and for the Japanese economy,” Donohue said.  “I urge Prime Minister Noda and the Government of Japan to continue working closely with the U.S. government in order to bring Japan into TPP on the same terms as the current partners.” 

Considering the dynamic changes occurring in the region, Donohue noted the strategic importance of the U.S.-Japan economic relationship.  In particular, he emphasized the close supply chain connections between the two economies and cooperation in critical areas, including intellectual property protection and harmonization of regulations and standards.

While stressing the many positive aspects of Japan’s entry into TPP for bilateral and regional trade and investment, Donohue expressed his hope that the Government of Japan would address some areas of concern in order to build confidence among U.S. stakeholders in its readiness to participate.  These areas of concern include, but are not limited to, autos and the recent bill to enhance Japan Post.

“We need to ensure there is a level playing field in Japan for all businesses and entities to compete on equal terms so that we can collaboratively create more jobs, economic growth, and innovation in Japan and the United States,” Donohue said.  “In the end, Japan’s participation in this comprehensive, high-standard agreement is a win-win, and will do much to strengthen the strategic and economic ties in the region and between our two countries.”

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.