Japan has made clear that it will not enter into a trade agreement with the United States unless all newly imposed tariffs are comprehensively reviewed. The position was reaffirmed by Ryosei Akazawa, Japan’s top trade negotiator, upon his return from the second round of ministerial-level talks in Washington.
Speaking to reporters after briefing Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Akazawa stated, “We have pressed the United States to reconsider all of the series of tariff measures, and we cannot reach an agreement if that is not properly addressed in a package.” His remarks underscore the current deadlock in trade negotiations, with both countries holding firm on their positions.
While Japan seeks the removal of U.S. tariffs on imports of automobiles, steel, and aluminum, the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump has shown little willingness to lift these duties. The Japanese government is especially concerned about the 25% tariffs targeting its automotive industry, which represented nearly 30% of Japan’s total exports to the U.S. by value last year.
President Trump, who has frequently criticized trade deficits and argued that the U.S. has been disadvantaged in global trade, has imposed sweeping tariffs — including 25% on all imported steel, aluminum, and vehicles manufactured outside the U.S. He also introduced reciprocal tariffs, currently amounting to 24% for Japan, though the additional portion remains on hold during ongoing negotiations.
In a further setback for Japan, a new 25% tariff on certain auto parts came into effect on Saturday. Prime Minister Ishiba expressed strong disappointment, stating that Japan will continue to press for reconsideration of U.S. tariff policies. He confirmed that Japan is negotiating over all U.S. tariffs, with no exclusions.
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