South Korea, China, and Japan Revive Economic Dialogue Amid Rising Trade Tensions

After a five-year hiatus, South Korea, China, and Japan resumed economic dialogue on Sunday, aiming to strengthen regional trade ties as they brace for the impact of new U.S. tariffs.

The high-level meeting, attended by trade ministers from the three economic powerhouses, focused on advancing negotiations for a trilateral free trade agreement (FTA) and enhancing cooperation within the framework of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).

In a joint statement released after the discussions, the trade ministers emphasized the need for “comprehensive and high-level” talks to foster regional and global trade.

South Korean Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun highlighted the importance of implementing RCEP more effectively while pushing forward with Korea-China-Japan FTA negotiations to create a more stable and cooperative trade environment.

The renewed dialogue comes at a critical juncture, as former U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to announce additional tariffs this week, a move he has branded “Liberation Day.”

His administration’s aggressive trade policies have disrupted global supply chains, and the latest decision to impose a 25% import tariff on cars and auto parts is expected to hit Asian automakers particularly hard. South Korea and Japan, two of the largest vehicle exporters to the U.S., stand to be significantly affected.

READ ALSO: Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Rises to 1,644 as Rescue Efforts Intensify

Despite their common economic interests, the three nations have long-standing diplomatic and territorial disputes that have hindered substantial progress in trilateral trade negotiations since talks began in 2012.

Tensions surrounding Japan’s release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant and other historical disagreements have often overshadowed economic cooperation.

However, the latest meeting signals a renewed commitment to overcoming these challenges. With RCEP—an expansive trade agreement involving 15 Asia-Pacific nations—now in effect since 2022, South Korea, China, and Japan are looking to leverage this platform to further integrate their economies and reduce trade barriers.

As the three nations navigate both geopolitical and economic uncertainties, their commitment to strengthening trade ties could serve as a counterbalance to escalating global protectionism. The ministers agreed to reconvene in Japan for the next round of discussions, underscoring their intent to sustain momentum toward a more integrated regional economy.