Japan and the Trans Pacific Partnership

Japan and the Trans Pacific Partnership
 
Federated Farmers of New Zealand welcomes Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, signalling that Japan wishes to join Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations.
 
“The Japanese market sets very high standards for its food,” says Bruce Wills, Federated Farmers President.
 
“Thankfully, New Zealand products are held in high regard by Japanese consumers and the country is our fourth largest export destination worth over NZ$3 billion.
 
“Our leading exports to Japan include aluminium, dairy products, fruit and nuts as well as meat. 
 
“Interestingly our imports from Japan are also worth over $3 billion.  Deepening the trade relationship makes a lot of sense. 
 
“Japan’s entry into the TPP would be of great mutual benefit for the primary industries.  New Zealand’s farmers and farm system is, we believe, complementary to Japan’s.
 
“New Zealand does not produce rice and we do not export significant quantities of sugar, barley, wheat or pork products; all sensitive agricultural products in Japan.
 
“New Zealand’s grass-fed beef fits into a specific niche in Japan because most beef there tends to be grain-fed.  Again we complement rather than compete.
 
“We also happen to be in different hemispheres so their winter is our summer.
 
“It is why we see nothing but positives for both Japanese and New Zealand farmers.  We have a lot to learn from each other and Federated Farmers welcomes this exciting trade development,” Mr Wills concluded.
 
ENDS

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