Japan Initiates Second WTO Dispute Complaint on Korean Support for Shipbuilders

Japan has requested WTO dispute consultations with Korea regarding alleged subsidies provided by the Korean government to its shipbuilding industry. Japan’s request was circulated to WTO members on 10 February.

The request is the second filed by Japan concerning support measures for Korea's shipbuilders. Japan initiated its first WTO complaint in November 2018 (DS571).

Japan claims the challenged measures, which include funds, loans, guarantees, insurance and other financing, are inconsistent with the WTO's Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM Agreement) and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1994.