Britain’s May tries to reassure Japanese biz leaders

February 9, 2018

London- British Prime Minister Theresa May tried Thursday to reassure Japanese business leaders by promising to make efforts to minimize the impact of her country's exit from the European Union, or Brexit.

At a meeting, senior officials of Japanese companies operating in Britain asked May to ensure that trade between her country and the EU stays smooth after Brexit.

May stressed that she will try to minimize any tariffs and other trade barriers that Britain may have with the EU after Brexit.

The meeting took place amid increasing concerns that foreign companies may accelerate moves to reduce their British operations and relocate to other countries.

"Companies of any countries, not only Japan, will not be able to stay in business in Britain if they become unprofitable," Japanese Ambassador to Britain Koji Tsuruoka said after the meeting.

The meeting was also attended by three British cabinet members, including Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond.

Japanese participants included senior officials of 18 companies operating in Britain, such as Nissan Motor Co., Hitachi Ltd., Mizuho Bank and Shionogi & Co. Jiji Press