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Japan: Economic Cooperation

Asked by Bobby DeanLiberal DemocratForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 31 March 2025UIN 40888

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether the Government has plans to take steps to help facilitate closer economic cooperation with Japan.

Answered by Catherine West

The Government has already taken action to strengthen UK-Japan economic cooperation. In early March 2025, the Foreign Secretary and Secretary of State for Business and Trade travelled to Japan, meeting their Japanese counterparts for the UK's first 'Economic 2+2'. As likeminded nations, we agreed new areas of collaboration in support of rules-based international trade, economic security, energy security, and engagement with Global South countries. The Government is taking forward work on a new Industrial Strategy Partnership and furthering our economic security partnership with Japan in support of growth, jobs and access to essential goods and services needed for the UK's future prosperity. The Government also plans to work closely with Japan to shape the future of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and ensure it remains a modern, high-standards agreement.

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