Japan "WTO Export Restriction Panel Established, Deeply Disappointed"

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyung-min] On the 29th (local time), when the World Trade Organization (WTO) confirmed the establishment of a panel regarding Japan's export restrictions imposed on South Korea, the Japanese side expressed strong regret.

The Permanent Mission of Japan in Geneva held a briefing at the WTO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, stating, "Japan's measures are in line with internationally established practices to strengthen export controls on dual-use items," and "We are deeply disappointed by South Korea's request to establish a panel."

They continued, "South Korea is challenging the fundamental premises that form the basis of international efforts for non-proliferation of weapons," and asserted, "Japan has approved exports of the three restricted items when confirmed for civilian use and will continue to approve them in the future."

Additionally, they added, "The South Korean government has repeatedly mentioned outside the forum that there is no direct damage to Korean companies such as production disruptions," and said, "Japan believes that resolving this issue through dialogue rather than the WTO dispute settlement procedure is the best path. Japan is fully prepared to defend the legitimacy of its export restrictions."

The WTO Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) held a regular meeting that day and confirmed the establishment of a panel, which acts as the first instance, regarding Japan's export control measures on three items: photoresists, fluorinated polyimides, and high-purity hydrogen fluoride.

Our government plans to prove through the panel procedure that Japan's measures are arbitrary and discriminatory trade restrictions that do not comply with WTO agreements and to urge their prompt withdrawal.