Yes exactly. And to take your specific example, Japanese health regulations with regard to meat are much more strict than US regulation. I've eaten things raw i

Yes exactly. And to take your specific example, Japanese health regulations with regard to meat are much more strict than US regulation. I've eaten things raw in Japan (pork, beef, fish, etc.) that I would never consider doing in the US. Choosing the lowest common denominator for the sake of improved trade will cause problems and get people killed due to culture differences. And as you say, totally ignores the wishes of the local electorate.