Japan’s chief trade envoy, Ryosei Akazawa, and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick engaged in a 30-minute phone discussion on Saturday, focusing on the possibility of establishing a bilateral trade deal, as reported by Econo Times. According to an official statement from the Japanese government, the exchange was described as ‘very in-depth,’ with both parties exploring opportunities for a mutually advantageous agreement.

The phone discussion came after Akazawa’s meetings in Tokyo with Lutnick and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Friday. Akazawa informed reporters that the meetings signaled progress toward reaching a possible trade agreement.

The talks were strategically scheduled to align with the anticipated meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Canada, which begins Sunday. It was the third round of discussions between the nations.

Japan is working to secure a trade deal before July, the deadline for a looming 24% U.S. tariff on Japanese exports. A major concern for Tokyo is Washington’s proposal to levy a 25% tariff on automobiles—a measure that would significantly affect Japan’s auto sector, a cornerstone of its national economy.

Both sides have shown a strong commitment to reaching an agreement, with Japan aiming to conclude a deal at the summit to sidestep impending tariffs. Tokyo has reaffirmed its dedication to protecting national economic priorities while deepening its trade relationship with Washington.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stated on Sunday that Tokyo seeks to advance tariff talks with the U.S., with the goal of achieving an outcome during the Group of Seven summit next month.

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