The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries is set to gather with fishermen to discuss the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The government plans to listen to the concerns of fishermen and devise responsive measures.
On September 29, the ministry will hold a meeting with fishermen regarding the government's review of joining the CPTPP. The meeting will address potential impacts on the fishing industry and concerns from the field.
The CPTPP is a multilateral free trade agreement involving 12 countries, including Japan, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The average market opening rate for fishery products among existing member countries is approximately 99.4%, while South Korea's average market opening rate under previously signed FTAs is 87.8%.
During the 273rd External Economic Ministers' Meeting held on August 27, the government decided not to reach a conclusion on joining the CPTPP and instead opted for social discussions. Consequently, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy held an advisory meeting with agricultural and fisheries experts on September 4 to discuss response measures for the sectors expected to be affected.
The upcoming fisheries meeting, organized by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, will include representatives from major fishing organizations, such as the National Federation of Fisheries Cooperatives and the Korean Federation of Fisheries Business Associations.
Key issues to be discussed include the potential market opening impacts from the elimination of tariffs on fishery products, possible restrictions on fishing subsidies like tax-exempt fuel, and concerns regarding the import of fishery products from Fukushima, Japan, which have been raised by fishermen.
The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries plans to continue communication across major regions and sectors in South Korea based on the feedback gathered during this meeting. They aim to ensure that the voices of on-site fishermen are adequately reflected in the future review process for joining the CPTPP.
Nam Jae-heon, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, stated, "While the CPTPP is crucial for expanding export markets and stabilizing supply chains, we must also fully consider its impact on the fishing industry and the burdens on fishermen. We will listen carefully to their concerns and work together to find a way forward, adhering to the government's principle of not pre-determining a conclusion on membership."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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