asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he will make a statement on the balance of payments on imports and exports with Japan; and the steps he is taking to secure wider access for Irish exports to the Japanese market.
Written Answers. - Import-Export Balance.
35.
In 1986 Irish exports to Japan were valued at £170,628,408. Imports from Japan were worth £328,406,954 leaving a trade deficit of £158 million. There has been a fluctuating deficit between 1980 and 1986.
Córas Tráchtála have an office in Tokyo. They work in both Ireland and Tokyo with Irish companies which wish to sell on the Japanese market. Each year CTT organise a number of trade missions to Japan. These comprise a wide range of Irish exporter companies and their products. I have asked CTT to intensify their efforts in this market.
On another level, I have requested my officials involved in the exchanges in Brussels to urge, and support fully, the Community to seek increased market opening measures by Japan.