FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 15^th, 2013 

Paulsen Statement on Japan’s Interest in Joining TPP Talks 

Encouraging Step Forward for Important Trans-Pacific Trade Agreement

Washington, D.C. – Representative Erik Paulsen (MN-03) released the following statement following Japan's announcement of its interest in joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).

“Welcoming Minnesota’s third largest export market to the TPP table would be excellent news for our state’s job creators, workers, and farmers. However, there is work to be done before Japan joins the agreement. The United States and its partners have worked hard to craft an ambitious and forward looking trade agreement, and Japan must be willing to adhere to the high standards and aggressive timeframe for the conclusion of TPP by October. Japan must also commit itself to the full resolution of any outstanding bilateral trade barriers between our two nations.”

Paulsen, a champion of small business and advocate of free enterprise, entrepreneurship, and innovation, serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, the bicameral Joint Economic Committee, and is co-chair of the Congressional Medical Technology Caucus.

For more information on Rep. Paulsen’s work in Congress visit www.paulsen.house.gov.

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