The USTR’s 2025 report on foreign trade barriers took issue extensively with agricultural trade barriers such as Japan’s rice import system and variable levies on low-priced pork, as well as automotive safety standards.
Japanese trade minister Yoji Muto told a press conference Tuesday that the government will coordinate with the US side regarding “safety standards and electric vehicle infrastructure.”
Tokyo wants to carefully assess Washington’s demands and mull its potential bargaining chips for seeking an exemption from US tariffs. It is still unclear what the US side is seeking.
A Japanese government source said, “I don’t know what will actually be demanded in negotiations.”
Bessent has stated that all options are open as long as the US trade deficit can be lowered. Washington may demand that Japan purchase liquefied natural gas from the United States, help reverse the dollar’s appreciation, which is hurting US exporters, and increase defense spending in upcoming negotiations.
The US government has said it will prioritize tariff talks with Japan. The outcome of the bilateral talks could be a precedent for other countries that will negotiate with the United States.
[Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]
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