Former U.S. President Donald Trump has cast doubt on the likelihood of a trade agreement with Japan, while simultaneously suggesting the potential for increased tariffs on Japanese imports. Trump told reporters he was uncertain about a deal with Japan, stating that it and other nations had benefited unfairly from trade with the U.S. for a significant period. He emphasized that it would be difficult for Japan to reach an agreement. He said that the tariff rate would be determined at a later date.
This situation is developing as the 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs nears expiration. Japan, along with other U.S. trading partners, is hoping to negotiate favorable trade deals. Japanese exports to the U.S. were subject to a 24% levy earlier this year.
Trump’s comments were made in conjunction with a Quad meeting in Washington, attended by Japanese officials and their counterparts from Australia and India. It also followed multiple rounds of trade negotiations led by Japan’s tariff negotiator.
Japan, a significant U.S. ally in East Asia, has experienced strained relations due to Trump’s trade policies. Trump has also declared that he does not plan to extend the pause on tariffs past the specified date.
In his remarks, Trump stated that Japan does not buy American rice, despite evidence to the contrary. He also stated that Japan does not buy American cars, which is also inaccurate.
Japanese officials have confirmed that trade talks will continue with the goal of achieving an agreement that is beneficial to both nations. The primary challenge remains the disagreement over tariffs imposed by the U.S., notably on cars, a critical aspect of the Japanese economy. Previous talks did not lead to a resolution.