Japan and the EU sign a major trade agreement

The European Union and Japan have signed a historic agreement that will eliminate almost all tariffs on the products they market.

The ambitious pact signed in Tokyo goes against the measures taken by US President Donald Trump to increase trading partners. It covers one-third of the global economy and the markets of more than 600 million people.

"The EU and Japan have shown unwavering determination to lead the world in free trade for the flag" President of the European Council Donald Tusk and European Commission President Jean -Claude Juncker

Tusk called the agreement "the most important bilateral trade agreement ever signed". was on their mind – highlighting how Europe and Japan were pushed closer by Trump's actions.

The agreement was largely reached at the end of last year. The signing ceremony was delayed compared to the beginning of the month because Abe canceled his departure for Brussels following a disaster in southwestern Japan caused by heavy rains.

The measures will not be taken immediately and will require legislative approval. But they will bring Japanese consumers to lower prices for European wines, pork, handbags and pharmaceuticals.

Japanese machinery parts, tea and fish will become cheaper in Europe

sold to the EU. About 94 percent of tariffs on European exports to Japan will be lifted, reaching 99 percent in the future.

The EU said trade liberalization will help increase European exports of chemicals, clothing, cosmetics and beer to Japan. The Japanese will get cheaper cheeses such as Parmesan, Gouda and Cheddar, as well as chocolate and cookies.

In addition to its agreement with the EU, Japan is working on other trade agreements, including a far-reaching transboundary agreement. The partnership includes Australia, Mexico, Vietnam and other countries, although the United States withdrew.