TPP = Pacific Rim Pacific Partnership Agreement signed in March by Japan, including Japan, ended domestic procedures for Japan to conclude this month following Mexico, and four other countries When the procedure is over, conditions for entry into effect will be in place.

Meeting by chief negotiators in 11 countries participated in a hotel in Hakone-machi, Kanagawa prefecture on the 18th, the head of the Japanese government Umemoto, who will serve as chairman at the beginning, said, "Being able to enter into an agreement early next year I hope to start preparing for the entry into force today. "

At the two-day meeting until 19th, the status of preparations by each country towards the entry into force of the agreement will be confirmed and discussion on how to proceed with future preliminary consultations with the countries and regions newly wishing to join is also discussed It is expected that this will be done.

Prior to the commencement of bilateral trade talks with the United States, which strengthen protectionist movements, the Japanese government, in addition to Japan and the EU EPA = Economic Partnership Agreement signed on 17th, TPP It is a policy to strengthen cooperation with each country that increases freedom towards the early entry into force of the agreement and emphasizes free trade.