Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has reiterated his government’s commitment to eliminating all tariffs in ongoing trade negotiations with the United States. Speaking on a Fuji Television program, Ishiba emphasized that current import levies, particularly on automobiles, are counterproductive for both economies.
He noted that high tariffs on auto imports increase costs for U.S. consumers and suggested that reducing them would benefit the American economy. Japan currently faces a 25% tariff on automobile exports to the U.S. and a 24% reciprocal tariff on other goods.
Despite Japan’s efforts, the U.S. has refused to grant a full exemption from these tariffs. According to sources, the United States has rejected Japan’s request for an exemption from both the 10% “reciprocal” tariff and the country-specific 24% tariff in recent negotiations.
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Both nations have agreed to intensify talks, aiming to reach a “mutually beneficial deal” as early as June. Officials from both sides are expected to engage in intensive ministerial discussions from mid-May onward to address points of contention and expand bilateral trade and economic security cooperation .
The outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact trade relations between Japan and the United States, particularly in sectors such as automotive and agriculture.
