Japan: Japan and United Kingdom issued joint statement on deepening economic relationship including commitment to promote bilateral technological cooperation

On 20 April 2026, the United Kingdom and Japan reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their economic relationship through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. They also called for reform of the World Trade Organisation. The parties raised concerns regarding economic coercion, non-market practices that may contribute to overcapacity and market distortions, and export restrictions on critical minerals that could affect global supply chains. They further confirmed their intention to continue promoting bilateral scientific and technological cooperation to support economic growth.