WASHINGTON, D.C., May 6, 1995 -- The Administration walked away today from a trade agreement with Japan instead choosing the dangerous and irresponsible path to a trade crisis. For the Administration to attempt to put responsibility on Japan by demanding forced sales and "voluntary" purchasing quotas is extraordinary, the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) said.

"Today the protectionists are celebrating, but tomorrow American consumers will suffer," William C. Duncan, General Director, JAMA, Washington said.

"The Administration’s unacceptable demand for auto parts purchasing quotas is the only reason the Vancouver negotiations broke down. The Big Three automakers and a favored few of their suppliers are trying to increase their business by getting the U.S. government to intervene in the private marketplace," Duncan added.

"JAMA members support the Framework goal--increased sales opportunities. We oppose forced sales under threat of retaliation. Retaliation will negatively impact the successful industry-to-industry relationships that took a decade to build and are the only real way to develop business," Duncan said.

"The Administration’s threat of unilateral trade retaliation is a total contradiction of the rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO) that the U.S. spent the last ten years negotiating. Ultimately, it will hurt, not help, U.S. trade objectives," Duncan emphasized.

For more information, contact Charley Powers, (202) 452-1670--JAMA News Bureau