China, South Korea and Japan agree to strengthen free trade

China, South Korea, and Japan agreed to strengthen free trade at their first high-level trade meeting in five years, responding to new tariffs imposed by US President Trump. The three nations, which represent 24% of the global economy, called for accelerated negotiations on a trilateral free-trade agreement days before US tariffs on cars and auto parts take effect. Officials emphasized the need for joint action amid increasing economic fragmentation and protectionism.READ FULL