Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba aims to advance US tariff talks, eyes outcome at G7 summit

Japanese Prime Minister Aims to Advance Tariff Talks with the US

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has announced that Tokyo is focusing on advancing tariff negotiations with the United States, aiming to reach an agreement during the upcoming Group of Seven summit. This comes after Japan’s top tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, conducted the third round of talks in Washington.

During a press conference in Kyoto, Ishiba highlighted the progress made in the negotiations, particularly in areas of trade expansion, non-tariff measures, and economic security. He mentioned that discussions are ongoing in preparation for the G7 summit.

Furthermore, Ishiba revealed Japan’s willingness to collaborate in shipbuilding, with a particular interest in assisting the US in repairing warships. He emphasized Japan’s expertise in icebreakers, potentially opening avenues for cooperation with the US, especially in Arctic trade routes.

In Tokyo, Akazawa mentioned that the schedule for future Japan-US talks is being arranged, expressing hope to meet with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during his next visit to the US.

Following his return from Washington, Akazawa emphasized that an agreement will only be reached when all elements are settled as a package. Until then, no specific details on progress will be disclosed.