Washington, DC – In response to Japan’s statement of interest in joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), Ways & Means Chairman Dave Camp (R-MI) and Trade Subcommittee Chairman Kevin Brady (R-TX) released the following statements:

Chairman Camp: “I welcome Japan’s historic announcement of its interest in joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership.  Hopefully Japan’s decision is a sign that it is firmly committed to resolving the outstanding barriers to trade between the United States and Japan, especially as it relates to our auto exports.   We must also address barriers to U.S. agriculture barriers – such as beef and cherries – and barriers to U.S. manufacturing and services exports.  Knocking down these barriers will promote U.S. exports and support good-paying American jobs.  I look forward to consulting closely with Ambassador Kirk and his team as we begin our domestic process to evaluate Japan’s candidacy and determine the appropriate time and circumstances of Japan’s joining the TPP.”

Trade Subcommittee Chairman Brady:  “Japan’s interest in joining the TPP is an important step forward in the U.S.-Japan relationship and reinforces the benefits of the Trans-Pacific Partnership.  This announcement creates an opportunity to address a number of barriers to U.S. exports and investment.  I look forward to working with Ambassador Kirk as we proceed through our domestic process and assess Japan’s candidacy.   At the same time, I hope Ambassador Kirk maintains an ambitious negotiating agenda at the TPP and concludes the agreement as soon as possible.  Like the recently passed trade agreement with Colombia, Panama and South Korea, the TPP presents a cost-free way to create American jobs and strengthen America’s global influence.”