IRVINE, Calif., (December 5, 2019) — In response to the announcement of the Japanese Diet’s approval of the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement, Western Growers President and CEO Tom Nassif issued the following statement:
“With Japan’s parliamentary approval of the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement, the final hurdle for the deal to take effect on January 1st of 2020 has been cleared. Western Growers appreciates the prompt action by the Japanese Diet, which will eliminate tariffs on a number of American fruit, vegetable and tree nut products and pave the way for significant export opportunities for our members.
“Western Growers extends its continued support to President Trump for his leadership in pursuing fairer deals for American farmers in Japan and other countries around the world.
“We urge President Trump to follow through on his pledge to engage Prime Minister Abe in further trade talks to address additional barriers to trade. Chief among our remaining concerns are the non-scientific sanitary and phytosanitary measures that will continue to prohibit many American fresh produce items from entering Japan. No trade deal will be complete without these reforms to the Japanese importation system.”
About Western Growers:
Founded in 1926, Western Growers represents local and regional family farmers growing fresh produce in Arizona, California, Colorado and New Mexico. Our members and their workers provide half the nation’s fresh fruits, vegetables and tree nuts, including half of America’s fresh organic produce. For generations we have provided variety and healthy choices to consumers. Connect with and learn more about Western Growers on our Twitter and Facebook.
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