Actual Conditions and Issues of EPA Utilization by Companies Headquartered in Ishikawa Prefecture

Abstract

With the entry into force of the RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) in January 2022, the share of Japan’s total trade with FTA (Free Trade Agreement) countries has reached approximately 80%. The question now is how Japanese companies will utilize FTAs. Under these circumstances, it is necessary to target the Asian market, where steady growth can be expected over the medium to long term. And to achieve that target, it is essential to utilize the FTAs concluded with Asia. In such situation, I conducted an interview survey to find out how companies headquartered in Ishikawa Prefecture, where I live, are using FTAs and what kind problems they are facing. This is the first study of an FTA that focuses on Ishikawa Prefecture. What issues can be raised in comparison with national surveys? We considered what kind of government support is expected.