Japan eyes 15% rate for US chip tariff, on par with EU: top negotiator

Interview

Akazawa says quarterly compliance checks not discussed with Trump or cabinet

Ryosei Akazawa, who has headed tariff talks with the U.S., speaks with Nikkei on July 31 ahead of the return of reciprocal tariffs. (Photo by Yutaka Miyaguchi)

TOKYO — Japan should be able to secure a 15% rate for the new sectorial tariff the U.S. is planning to impose on chips, Ryosei Akazawa, Japan’s lead tariff negotiator, told Nikkei in an exclusive interview Thursday.