Press Releases
Exchange of Diplomatic Notes concerning Entry into Force of the Agreement between Japan and Australia for an Economic Partnership
1. Following the cabinet decision on December 16, the exchange of diplomatic notes concerning entry into force of the Agreement between Japan and Australia for an Economic Partnership, will take place in Canberra, Australia, today between Mr. Yoshitaka Akimoto, Japanese Ambassador to Australia, and Ms. Jan Adams, Deputy Secretary, Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Australia. With this exchange of notes, this Agreement will enter into force on January 15, 2015.
2. This Agreement will promote liberalization and facilitation of trade in goods and services and increase investment opportunities between Japan and Australia, thereby enhancing bilateral partnership regarding economic activities. It will also strengthen cooperation in various areas such as food supply, energy and mineral resources, movement of natural persons, competition and consumer protection, intellectual property and government procurement.
3. It is expected that entry into force of this Agreement will greatly invigorate both economies and further strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
(Reference 1)
Article 20.4 of this Agreement stipulates that this Agreement shall enter into force on the thirtieth day after the date on which the Governments of the Parties exchange diplomatic notes informing each other that their respective legal procedures necessary for entry into force of this Agreement have been completed.
(Reference 2)
This Agreement is the 14th EPA for Japan, following EPAs which already entered into force with Singapore, Mexico, Malaysia, Chile, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, ASEAN, Philippines, Switzerland, Viet Nam, India and Peru.