Japanese Prime Minister Urges Trump to Reassess Tariffs Impacting Trade
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba urged President Trump to reconsider new tariffs on Japan during a recent phone call. Tariffs commencing Wednesday include a 24% on exports and a 25% on automobiles. While Trump maintains the need for fair negotiations, both leaders are focused on pursuing cooperative trade strategies to benefit both countries.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba recently urged President Trump to rethink the tariffs imposed on Japan in a phone call focused on trade. During this conversation, Ishiba highlighted that a resolution is not expected to happen quickly, acknowledging the complexity of international negotiation dynamics. He stated the importance of Japan as a significant investor in the U.S., pointing out that tariff policies could be detrimental to Japanese investment capabilities.
Starting Wednesday, Japan faces a 24% tariff on its exports to the U.S., while a 25% tariff on Japanese-made automobiles is already enforced. Trump, during a press interaction, asserted he is not considering pausing the global tariffs implemented the previous week, emphasizing that negotiations with many countries for fair deals are ongoing.
When addressing concerns about conflicting messages from his administration, Trump remarked, “there can be permanent tariffs, and there can also be negotiations because there are things that we need beyond tariffs.” The U.S. Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, along with the U.S. Trade Representative, will spearhead negotiations with Japan, following a constructive dialogue reported on Monday.
Bessent conveyed on social media that both he and the Trade Representative would initiate discussions to realize the President’s vision for global trade in collaboration with Japan. Ishiba expressed his apprehensions regarding tariffs affecting Japanese investment in the U.S. and urged a strategy focused on mutual benefits rather than tariffs. The leaders agreed to maintain open and constructive discussions moving forward, emphasizing a cooperative economic relationship.
In summary, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba appealed to President Trump to reconsider tariffs that could hinder Japanese investment in the U.S. with a notable 24% tariff on exports looming. While Trump remains firm on current global tariffs, both leaders are committed to ongoing negotiations aimed at mutual benefits instead of restrictive policies. The discussions underscore the importance of cooperation in fostering favorable economic ties between Japan and the United States.
Original Source: www.deseret.com
