Japan’s Prime Minister Ishiba confirms that the country will not negotiate on U.S. tariffs.

Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has confirmed that the country will not engage in negotiations on U.S. tariffs, following recent discussions between Japan’s chief tariff negotiator, Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa, and U.S. officials. The announcement comes amidst ongoing bilateral tariff negotiations between Japan and the United States.

Minister Akazawa met with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in Washington last week, with the latest round of talks focusing on tariff measures implemented by the Trump administration. Despite Japan’s efforts to secure a review of these tariffs, U.S. officials have not guaranteed such a review.

Prime Minister Ishiba received a briefing from Minister Akazawa about the meeting and instructed him to prioritize the negotiations, aiming for an agreement without compromising national interests. However, after the meeting, Minister Akazawa stated that Japan’s economy, particularly the automobile industry, has already suffered significant damage due to the tariffs.

The decision to not negotiate on U.S. tariffs follows President Trump’s recent announcement of a 50% tariff hike on steel and aluminum imports, which was not discussed during the latest round of talks. The U.S. has cited national security as the reason behind the tariff increase, which will come into effect on Wednesday.

Source: Ainvest