PEEA consisted of Communists and noncommunist progressives. The communist-controlled Ministry of Information refused broadcasting time to noncommunist officials. The alliance formed the base of Russia's first noncommunist government. By 1960 Japan accounted for 3.6 percent of all exports of noncommunist countries. Token noncommunist participation serves to lend an element of credibility. Among noncommunist countries, an important trade partner was West Germany (fifth in rank). Restraints on imports from noncommunist countries reduced inputs for domestic industries.