Japan’s tough stance on US tariffs threatens to stall trade deal

Japan’s unwavering stance against US tariffs on automobile exports complicates trade negotiations. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has made it clear that no trade agreement will be accepted without addressing these tariffs, particularly as Japan faces increasing economic pressure.

The urgency of resolving trade discussions intensifies with Japan’s upper house elections set for July 2025. The Japanese economy is under strain, potentially suffering losses of approximately 2 trillion JPY, equating to 13.7 billion USD, due to these tariffs.