Japan Press Weekly

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2010 November 10 - 16 [FOREIGN POLICY]

Anti-free trade protest takes place outside APEC meetings

In the rally, participants resolved to oppose the government’s intention to liberalize the import of agricultural products in the name of economic growth which would have a catastrophic impact on local communities and industries.

Representatives of a farmers’ group and a trade union raised their voices, saying, “Farmers, workers, and consumers, no one can benefit from the liberalization of agricultural imports.”

Participating in the rally, economic analyst Uchihashi Katsuto pointed out that with participation in the TPP Japan will give up its tariff autonomy in accordance with U.S. economic strategy objectives.

He went on to say, “Japanese people should be more aware of what they are purchasing and think about the real costs behind cheap imports,” citing the fact that in Mexico, the liberalization of agricultural imports resulted in a drastic decline in corn production, Mexico’s staple food, but on the other hand, the soaring corn price due to the bioethanol boom caused an increase in massive demonstrations.

In front of Yokohama Station, protesters called on passersby to support their signature campaign urging the Kan Cabinet to rescind its decision to start negotiations for the TPP, which would pave the way to the complete liberalization of agricultural imports.
- Akahata, November 16, 2010