Japan Plans Tariff Talks to Cut US Trade Deficit Before G7

Japan is actively negotiating with the United States to address the bilateral trade deficit, a key priority for President Donald Trump. Tokyo has presented a detailed plan that includes significant investments in sectors like automobiles, steel, and shipbuilding, alongside proposals to increase imports of U.S. agricultural products, vehicles, and liquefied natural gas. Additionally, Japan has expressed willingness to reform systems that the U.S. views as non-tariff barriers. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba emphasized that while progress before the upcoming G7 summit with President Trump would be welcome, Japan will not rush into any deal that compromises its national interests. The Japanese government aims to continue ministerial talks up until the summit to secure a mutually beneficial agreement. Ishiba's approach highlights a balance between accommodating U.S. demands and protecting Japan's economic sovereignty.