Japan Demands US Scrap Auto Tariffs, Rejects Partial Trade Deal
Following the second round of US-Japan ministerial talks, Prime Minister Ishiba reaffirmed Japan’s demand for a complete removal of all US tariffs, including those on automobiles, steel, and aluminum. Despite a significant gap in positions, Japan will continue pressing for a review of these tariffs, deeming the auto part tariffs particularly regrettable. Minister Akazawa echoed this stance, emphasizing the need for a total rollback of the tariff package for any agreement. Intensive ministerial meetings are scheduled for mid-May, with working-level talks already underway.
John Q. Hosedrinker