Japan’s main commercial negotiator, Ryosi Akazawa, traveled to Washington on Wednesday (16) to start conversations with US authorities about Trump government tariffs. The visit marks the first round of negotiations since the US president announced, on April 2, generalized imports on imports, later suspended for 90 days after turbulence in the markets.
Japan was the first country summoned for the negotiations, becoming, according to diplomats heard by the Financial Timesa “test” of Washington’s commercial strategy. Akazawa has expected meetings with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Representative Jamieson Greer.
Among the main points under discussion are the 25% tariff over Japanese cars, in addition to the 10% global rate applied to most US business partners. Japan also faces overflows on steel and aluminum exports.
Japanese prime minister Shigeru Ishiba has classified the situation as a “national crisis” and told Parliament that his government does not intend to retaliate to avoid additional economic damage. Takeshi Niinami, president of the Japan Corporate Executive Association, said negotiations will serve as a “showcase” of the US approach in commercial disputes.
American requirements include greater Japanese imports of liquefied natural gas, greater access to US agricultural products such as rice and wheat, and changes in automotive safety standards that would make it difficult to sell American vehicles in Japan.
The meeting is also closely observed by other countries affected by Trump’s protectionist measures, which imposed up to 145% tariffs on Chinese products. China has responded with 125% rates on US goods while accusing the US of “blackmail” and pressures for negotiations with “respect and mutual benefit.”