269. Letter From the Special Representative for Trade Negotiations (Eberle) to the Japanese Ambassador (Ushiba)1
Dear Mr. Ambassador:
This letter records the substance of the recent discussions between the Government of the United States and the Government of Japan with respect to those measures in the field of trade which Japan proposed be taken by the United States.2
1. Section 402a of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended (“Final List”)
In response to the Japanese request that the Final List be eliminated, the United States stated that the Administration would be prepared to seek legislation to eliminate the Final List, subject to reciprocity within the multilateral framework of the GATT.
2. American Selling Price System of Customs Valuation (ASP)
In response to the Japanese request that the ASP method of customs valuation on certain canned clams and wool knit gloves be eliminated, the United States stated, as agreed in the Kennedy Round of Tariff Negotiations, that it will seek legislative authorization to eliminate ASP on canned clams and wool knit gloves. The United States Government understands that Japan is prepared to carry out its reciprocal commitment.
[Page 687]3. Antidumping
The United States agreed to a Japanese proposal for consultation by a technical group composed of representatives from both countries on questions arising out of the Treasury Department’s administration of the Antidumping Act, 1921.
4. Government Procurement
In response to a Japanese complaint on “Buy American” laws and regulations, the United States stated that it was prepared, in the context of multilateral discussions on government procurement, to participate in an examination of the relevant laws, regulations and practices of all participating countries.
5. Canned Tuna
With regard to the question of the implementation of canned tuna from Japan, the United States Government recognizes that measures are being taken by Japan based on the results of discussions held so far by experts of both countries. The present inspection measures in the United States may be moderated as determined by the effectiveness of the Japanese measures in meeting a U.S. laws and regulations concerning decomposed canned tuna.
The United States Government is prepared to hold consultations with the Japanese Government on any matter concerning the importation of canned tuna from Japan.
6. Discussion of Trade Issues
The United States Government anticipates that discussions of trade issues with the Government of Japan during the year 1972 would be held within the GATT or other multilateral framework or through normal diplomatic channels.
7. Tariffs on Items of Japanese Export Interest
The United States Government notes the requests of the Government of Japan that the United States reduce its tariffs on watches and clocks, projectors, light bulb sets and electric lamps for Christmas trees, portable electric lamps, trucks, and tubes for bicycles.
Sincerely,
- Source: National Archives, RG 364, Office of the Special Representative for Trade Negotiations: Lot 78 B 1, STR Reading: January/February 1972. No classification marking. Another copy of the letter indicates that it was drafted by James A. McNamara of STR. (Ibid.)↩
- These discussions took place from December 1971 to early February 1972, and included a Summit meeting between President Nixon and Prime Minister Sato in San Clemente in early January. The economic questions discussed during these meetings are summarized in a February 23 memorandum for the files by James McNamara. (Ibid.)↩
- Printed from a copy that indicates Eberle signed the original.↩