In a pivotal moment amid rising global trade tensions, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced plans to speak with U.S. President Donald Trump by phone as early as next week. The call aims to address the recently imposed U.S. tariffs that have triggered concerns over a mounting trade imbalance.
With U.S. officials setting a baseline tariff of 10 percent on imports from all trading partners and a steep 24 percent rate on Japanese goods, Tokyo’s intensive lobbying for an exemption fell short. Ishiba emphasized that his discussion with Trump will focus on the economic benefits Japan brings as one of the largest investors in the United States.
While firmly rejecting any tit-for-tat retaliatory measures, the prime minister signaled that Japan will adopt strategic policies to buffer domestic industries. Initiatives include simplifying access to state-backed loans for small businesses, a vital step amid forecasts that these tariffs could drag down Japan's real GDP by 0.6 percent in 2025, following tepid growth in 2024.
Trade Minister Yoji Muto further reinforced Tokyo’s resolve by setting up a task force to analyze the full impact of the tariffs, aiming to navigate the complex economic landscape ahead. The debate intensified when U.S. figures also spotlighted Japan’s rice market—though Agriculture Minister Taku Eto dismissed claims of a 700 percent tariff as "illogical" and unfounded under existing World Trade Organization guidelines.
As both nations reassess their economic strategies, this high-stakes dialogue is capturing global attention, resonating with young global citizens, tech enthusiasts, and thought leaders eager for fresh perspectives on international trade and economic resilience.
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Japan's PM to discuss tariffs with Trump after failed exemption lobby
cgtn.com
