Japan stands firm as tariff talks with US set to begin this week
Japan and the United States are gearing up for critical negotiations over tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, with high-level talks expected to begin this week, according to Japanese and US officials.
File Source: Bloomberg
Japan and the United States are gearing up for critical negotiations over tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, with high-level talks expected to begin this week, according to Japanese and US officials.
Japanese Economic Revitalization Minister Akazawa Ryosei will travel to Washington starting Wednesday to begin discussions, Japanese broadcaster NHK reported on Tuesday. The visit comes amid growing economic tensions triggered by sweeping tariffs that have rattled international trade relationships.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed in an interview with Bloomberg TV that “Washington and Tokyo will hold talks Wednesday,” and added that similar discussions will follow with South Korea next week.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has taken a firm stance ahead of the negotiations, saying on Monday that his country “won’t compromise” in order to rush a deal. His statement reflects Tokyo’s determination to defend key industries, including its automotive and metal sectors, which have been hit hard by the new trade policies.
Under the Trump administration’s aggressive tariff agenda, Japanese exports face a 24% tariff—particularly targeting cars, steel, and aluminum. Despite a 90-day reprieve granted to most nations excluding China, Japan has repeatedly lobbied Washington for full exemption.
Trump’s broader tariff structure includes a baseline 10% levy on imports from all countries, while imports from China are subject to a staggering 145% tariff. As Tokyo prepares to make its case, it remains to be seen whether the US will soften its stance or escalate the economic standoff.
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