S. Korea to deal with U.S.-proposed rechargeable battery transport rules

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SEOUL, Jan. 20 (Yonhap) -- South Korea seeks cooperation with Japan to deal with
a move by the United States to limit air-transport of rechargeable lithium
batteries, a government official said Wednesday.

The source at the Ministry of Knowledge Economy said Washington has asked Seoul
to submit its view on ways to enhance safety related to the transport of
rechargeable batteries by planes before the end of February.
The United States announced on Dec. 30 that it will limit the overall size of
batteries that can be transported by planes and called for special packaging to
prevent possible explosions.
The U.S. government has requested countries including South Korea to submit
opinions on its decision by late February this year.
There has been some minor incidents involving lithium batteries exploding on planes.
"Ordinary lithium batteries can cause small-scale explosions, but it is our view
that rechargeable lithium batteries are safe and pose no risks," the official
said.
He added that if the U.S. enforces new rules it could have a negative effect on
South Korean electronics companies that export most of its mobile phones and
computers that have built-in rechargeable batteries. Such products are airlifted
and if the new rules are enforced it can raise overall costs of products.
"Since the issue involves both South Korea and Japan, our stance is to work with
Tokyo to better emphasize our joint views on this matter," he said, adding that
the goal is to prove that rechargeable lithium batteries are safe and are not a
risk to aircraft safety.
The government held consultation with representatives of the local industry
early this month to make an alliance with Japan and is in talks with the Battery
Association of Japan on the issue, according to the official.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
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