韩国将探讨加入CPTPP

Core Viewpoint - The South Korean government under Lee Jae-myung is exploring the possibility of joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) to diversify trade in response to the U.S. tariff policies that have negatively impacted Korean exports [2][4][5]. Group 1: CPTPP Membership Exploration - The South Korean government held a meeting on September 3 to discuss the potential for joining the CPTPP, emphasizing the need for economic alliances among countries with similar positions [4]. - Previous attempts by the Moon Jae-in administration to join the CPTPP were unsuccessful due to deteriorating Japan-South Korea relations and opposition from domestic industries and agricultural groups [4][5]. - The current administration aims to improve Japan-South Korea relations, which is crucial for gaining Japan's support for South Korea's CPTPP membership [5]. Group 2: Economic Context and Cooperation - The backdrop of high tariffs imposed by the Trump administration has fostered a collaborative atmosphere between Japan and South Korea, focusing on shared economic challenges [5]. - The only existing economic cooperation framework involving both countries is the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), highlighting the need for higher-level economic cooperation [5]. - The CPTPP, which includes 12 countries such as Japan and Australia, covers not only tariff reductions but also the liberalization of services and investments, making it a significant trade agreement for South Korea to consider [5]. Group 3: Domestic and International Challenges - A key challenge for South Korea's CPTPP membership is the ongoing import restrictions on certain Japanese seafood products, which were implemented following the Fukushima nuclear disaster [5]. - The ability to lift these import restrictions and unify domestic opinions on the matter will be critical for South Korea's potential accession to the CPTPP [5].