The 4th Round of Negotiations for Japan-Peru Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA)

October 6, 2009

The 4th Round of Negotiations for Japan-Peru Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) was held from October 1 (Thu) to 6 (Tue) in Tokyo.

From Japan, Mr. Yasuo Tanabe, Deputy Director-General of the Economic Affairs Bureau, attended the meeting along with representatives from relevant ministries. From Peru, Mr. Carlos Posada, Director-General for Asia-Oceania Bilateral Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism, attended the meeting along with representatives from relevant ministries.

In this round of the negotiations, both sides discussed a broad range of negotiating areas such as trade in goods and services, trade remedies, rules of origin, entry and temporary stay of nationals for business purposes, competition policy, government procurement, general provisions, dispute settlement, cooperation, improvement of business environment and telecommunication. Good progress has been made in the broad area. Both sides also exchanged views and positions on SPS, TBT, environment and IPR.

The meeting was held in a cordial atmosphere befitting the close and friendly relations that exist between the two countries.

Dates for the next round of the negotiations will be decided during the following weeks.

(Reference) Background

Launching of the EPA negotiation was officially decided through a telephone conversation between then Prime Minister Aso and President García in April, 2009. The 1st round of negotiation took place in May in Lima, the 2nd in July in Tokyo and the 3rd in August in Lima.

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