With the recent agreement reached on the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade pact, companies in Kyushu and around Japan are hoping reduced tariffs and other measures will help them gain a foothold in foreign markets. A spokesperson for Toyota Motor Kyushu said the company welcomes the reduced tariffs since 90% of the vehicles they produce are for foreign countries, many of which are TPP member countries, like the US and Canada. The pact will impact a wide range of industries, including traditional crafts. Prime Minister Abe noted several Saga-based Imari porcelain makers as examples of companies that will benefit from reduced trade tariffs.While the government and big businesses are playing up the positive aspects of the prospective deal (which still needs to be approved by each country’s legislature), critics say the deal will hurt small and medium-sized enterprises. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun 10/7
