Beijing, Tokyo Reach a Compromise on Farm Exports

摘要

An agreement between China and Japan to end a protracted trade dispute over farm goods removes a cloud from one of Asia's most important economic relationships, but is unlikely to prevent future frictions as the two nations pursue an uncomfortable economic integration. Under the deal reached Dec. 21 in Beijing by the Japanese and Chinese trade ministers, Tokyo agreed not to seek permanent restrictions on imports of Chinese leeks, mushrooms and rushes used in traditional floor mats. In return, Beijing promised to end 100% retaliatory tariffs on imports of Japanese vehicles, mobile phones and air conditioners. Though both sides called the agreement a compromise, most of the concessions came from Tokyo, which touched off the dispute nine months ago by taking unilateral action against the Chinese imports.