ASEAN, Japan Eye EPA Revision for Supply Chain and Mineral Cooperation

The Philippines and Japan are reportedly planning to revise the ASEAN-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to bolster cooperation in critical minerals and energy supply chains. This move comes as the Philippines assumes the ASEAN chairmanship this year, with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expected to discuss the EPA revisions with Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida during his state visit.

The EPA, which came into effect in 2008, has seen one previous revision in 2019. According to Japanese government officials, the proposed amendments would include provisions for joint procurement and alternative transportation methods in the event of supply chain disruptions. This initiative is seen as a key component of Prime Minister Kishida's "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" strategy.

Beyond supply chain resilience, Japan and ASEAN nations also intend to introduce new digital norms, including regulations for data circulation. This dual focus on corporate environment improvement and supply chain stability reflects a broader strategy to adapt to the evolving global economic landscape. The two countries will also pursue revisions to their bilateral EPA.

President Marcos Jr. arrived in Japan on April 26 for his first state visit since Prime Minister Kishida took office. His itinerary includes meetings with the Imperial family and an address to the Japanese Diet.