In Washington, top commerce and industry officials from Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the United States convened to enhance economic security and foster cooperation in critical and emerging technologies.
Historic Trilateral Meeting
On June 23, 2024, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry Saito Ken, and Republic of Korea Minister of Trade, Industry, and Energy Ahn Duk-geun met for the inaugural Commerce and Industry Ministerial Meeting.
This historic meeting followed the vision set at the Trilateral Summit at Camp David in August 2023.
Focus Areas for Cooperation
Economic Security and Supply Chain Resilience
The ministers emphasized the importance of strengthening the resilience of supply chains, particularly for semiconductors and batteries. They agreed on the Principles on Resilient and Reliable Supply Chains: transparency, diversification, security, sustainability, and trustworthiness.
Advanced Technologies
Cooperation in advanced industrial technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and critical minerals, was a key focus. The meeting highlighted the need for collaborative research and the development of international standards for AI.
Joint Focus Areas
Focus Area |
Main Points |
|---|---|
| Supply Chain Resilience | Semiconductors, batteries, diversification |
| Advanced Technologies | AI, critical minerals, international standards |
| Economic Security | Export controls, private sector partnerships |
Commitment to Clean Energy
The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the global battery supply chain. They discussed the role of clean/zero-emission and low-carbon hydrogen in decarbonizing various sectors and the importance of developing secure and resilient global supply chains for these technologies.
- Strengthening global battery supply chains
- Promoting clean/zero-emission hydrogen technologies
Addressing Critical Minerals
Recognizing the importance of critical minerals in the clean energy transition, the ministers agreed to enhance processing and refining capabilities. They discussed the development of Rare Earth Element (REE) technologies and establishing stable supply chains for REEs and permanent magnets.
Export Controls and AI Safety
The ministers underscored the need for responsible use of critical and emerging technologies while preventing their misuse.
They discussed the progress made through the U.S.-Japan-ROK Disruptive Technology Protection Network (DTPN) and the importance of aligning on export control policies.
Cybersecurity and Technical Standards
Effective cybersecurity is crucial for economic security and protecting critical infrastructure. The ministers commended the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for its Cybersecurity Framework 2.0 and emphasized the importance of international standardization efforts.
Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF)
The ministers welcomed the progress made at the June IPEF Ministerial meeting in Singapore. They reaffirmed their commitment to the IPEF Clean Economy Agreement and the Cooperative Work Programs on hydrogen, clean electricity, and sustainable aviation fuel.
To Sum Up
The inaugural Japan-Republic of Korea-United States Commerce and Industry Ministerial Meeting marked a significant step towards enhanced economic security and technological cooperation.
The ministers pledged to continue their collaboration to benefit their economies, private sectors, workers, and communities. The meeting underscored the critical importance of resilient supply chains, advanced technologies, and clean energy in driving future economic growth and security.
As the global economic landscape evolves, the trilateral cooperation between Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the United States will play a pivotal role in shaping a secure and prosperous future.
This meeting highlights the importance of international collaboration in addressing complex global challenges and advancing shared economic goals.
Sources: THX News & US Department of Commerce.
