The wine industry has emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries of the negotiations, with tariffs falling from 15% down to 0%. Not only will this save €134 million for EU producers, it will also make EU wines more competitive, allowing European wines to expand their market share. However, it is not only tariff reductions that are set to benefit European vineyards, as Japan has also agreed to authorise a number of oenological practices which are common within the EU, reducing administrative costs for exporters.
There is also good news for EU meat farmers, with pork receiving a boost from a change in the Japanese system of tariffs and beef producers receiving a lift through a reduction in duties. The previously complex Japanese gate price system is due to be replaced, increasing the confidence and certainty amongst European exporters whilst providing practically free access to the market.
The tariff reduction for beef products will be more gradual but will ultimately lead to a significant fall of 25.5%. These reductions, making EU imports to Japan considerably more competitive, will open up a new range of opportunities for European producers and will allow the strong reputation of EU agri-food goods to shine through.
Japanese shoppers will also be able to enjoy European cheeses at more competitive prices in future, with tariffs on hard cheese gradually dropping to 0% over a 15-year period and soft cheese enjoying a new duty free quota equivalent to the current quantity of European exports.
Many products benefit twice from the agreement, with the European Union also securing Japanese recognition of over 200 geographical indications (GIs). GI recognition, which protects the traditional know-how of producers, will reassure Japanese consumers that when they buy Camembert de Normandie or a bottle of Chianti they will be receiving the genuine article. It will also extend the protection available to culturally significant local foods, protecting diversity within the EU.
For European agricultural, the EU-Japan EPA represents a notable opportunity. With recognition of EU geographical indications, tariff rate reductions and the removal of a number of technical barriers for trade, the agreement represents a significant breakthrough for European producers and Japanese consumers alike. It Increases the vibrancy and prosperity of Europe's rural areas, whilst expanding the choice available to the Japanese public.
