Editorial

14:02 JST, September 16, 2025

The global free trade framework is facing a crisis due to the high tariff measures taken by the United States. It is hoped that the number of member countries of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) will increase to reinforce its function as a breakwater against protectionism.

The South Korean government has announced its policy to consider joining the CPTPP. This is because South Korea judged it necessary to expand overseas sales channels out of concern for a possible decline in its exports due to the high tariff measures of U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.

The CPTPP, in which Japan plays the leading role, currently includes 12 countries, such as Australia, Britain and Vietnam. From now, South Korea intends to proceed with coordinating the interests of relevant parties and submit an........

© The Japan News