Japan, USA Begin Tariff Talks
Economy Minister Ryosei Akazawa will meet with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington
Like many allies of the United States, Japan has not been able to avoid the imposition of duties under the Trump administration’s new trade policy. The country was subjected 24% tariffs, which were subsequently suspended for 90 days. At the same time, the universal rate of 10% remains in force.
On April 16, talks between Japan and the USA will begin in Washington. Ryosei Akazawa, Minister of Economic Affairs, will visit the country and hold talks with Scott Bessent and Jamieson Greer, Secretary of the Treasury and US Trade Representative.
Now Tokyo is hoping to save at least the automobile industry: Japanese brands have traditionally held a strong position in the American market and account for more than 28% of Japanese exports to the United States. Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba announced the start of talks back in early April, following a phone call with Trump. However, Ishiba had already then ruled out the possibility of major concessions.
According to Reuters, Akazawa hopes Japan’s commitment to new investment in the US economy can convince Washington that there is mutually beneficial cooperation without duties.
According to Japanese customs data released by ANSA, Japan exported 6-trillion-yen worth of goods to the USA in 2024, with new duties bringing the rate on passenger cars to 27.5%.
