Overview

• Trade ministers from China, South Korea, and Japan met in Seoul for the first economic dialogue in five years, focusing on strengthening regional trade ties.
• The three countries agreed to expedite negotiations for a trilateral free trade agreement and to create a stable trade and investment environment.
• Discussions emphasized the importance of implementing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) to enhance economic cooperation.
• The meeting was partly driven by the disruptive impact of U.S. tariffs, including a 25% import tax on cars and auto parts, on their economies.
• The ministers committed to holding their next trilateral meeting in Japan to continue advancing trade initiatives.