Office of Japan, Korea, & APEC Affairs

USTR’s Office of Japan, Korea, and APEC Affairs develops and implements trade and trade-related policy toward Japan and Korea and within the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum (APEC).

Japan: The office leads trade negotiations and related initiatives to further open the world’s third largest economy to U.S. goods and services. The office also addresses specific bilateral trade issues with Japan, monitors Japan’s compliance with its bilateral and international trade agreements, and coordinates with Japan on regional and global trade issues of mutual concern and interest.

Korea: The office monitors Korea’s implementation of its obligations under the U.S.-Korea (KORUS) Free Trade Agreement, including coordinating the work of the 20 committees and working groups established under the agreement.  The office also addresses specific emerging bilateral trade issues with Korea, monitors Korea’s compliance with other multilateral and bilateral trade agreements, and coordinates with Korea on regional and global trade issues of mutual concern and interest.APEC: The office advances U.S. trade policy through the APEC forum, comprised of 21 member economies. The office is responsible for the development and implementation of U.S. priorities and initiatives in APEC with respect to trade and investment.