The European Parliament approved the agreement with Japan

The European Parliament has approved the Economic Partnership and Free Trade Agreement between the EU and Japan. This agreement will eliminate almost all tariffs, representing an annual sum of around EUR 1 billion for EU companies.

 

 

 

It will open up the Japanese market to the EU's main agricultural products and also guarantee the protection in Japan of 205 European products with protected geographical indications (PGIs).

 

 

 

Japan has already ratified the agreement. Following approval by the European Parliament, the Council is expected to give its final green light on 21 December, which will allow the agreement to enter into force on 1 February 2019. All Member States will have to ratify the agreement first, to enters into force.