Japan’s top tariffs negotiator is on his way to Washington for a second round of talks. Economic Revitalization Minister Akazawa Ryosei took off from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport on Wednesday morning.
Akazawa is due to meet US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Thursday, Japan time. The talks are expected to focus on narrowing down topics for detailed discussion.
Speaking to reporters before his departure, Akazawa said: “My ultimate goal is to reach an agreement which benefits both Japan and the United States. I’m determined to move the discussions forward, even if only marginally.”
Akazawa is likely to continue pressing the US side to rethink its tariff measures. He hopes to convince the Trump administration that further investment from Japan will benefit the US economy.
Akazawa will also take up the administration’s demand that Japan increase imports of autos and agricultural products. He will convey Japan’s stance while determining the US negotiating position.
Trump has said that the US is very close to striking a deal with Japan, but Japanese government officials are skeptical. Some question his grounds for asserting that and wonder if it was intended for the domestic audience.
AloJapan.com