TOKYO – Japan’s commerce minister stated Tuesday that he has did not win assurances from U.S. officers that the important thing U.S. ally will probably be exempt from tariffs, a few of which impact on Wednesday.
Yoji Muto was in Washington for final ditch negotiations over the tariffs on a variety of Japanese exports together with automobiles, metal and aluminum.
Muto stated Tuesday that Japan, which contributes to the U.S. financial system by closely investing and creating jobs in america, “shouldn’t be topic to” 25% tariffs on metal, aluminum and auto exports to America.
His conferences with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, U.S. Commerce Consultant Jamieson Greer and White Home financial advisor Kevin Hassett on Monday got here simply two days earlier than the metal and aluminum tariffs are on account of take impact. President Donald Trump has additionally stated a potential 25% tariff on imported overseas autos may take impact in early April.
Muto stated the U.S. officers acknowledged Japanese contributions and agreed to proceed talks, however didn’t approve his request for Japan’s exemption from the steep import duties.
“We didn’t obtain a response that Japan will probably be exempt,” Muto informed reporters. “We should proceed to say our place.”
Japan relies upon closely on exports and the auto tariffs would harm, as a result of autos are its greatest export and america is their prime vacation spot.
Trump additionally has criticized Japan’s contributions to the 2 nations’ mutual protection preparations, including to tensions with Tokyo.
Muto stated the 2 sides agreed to maintain discussing to search out methods to ascertain a “win-win” relationship that will serve nationwide pursuits of each nations.
The 2 sides additionally mentioned vitality cooperation, together with joint growth of the liquefied pure fuel in Alaska, which Trump and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba agreed on throughout Ishiba’s go to to the White Home in February.
Copyright 2025 The Related Press. All rights reserved. This materials might not be printed, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed with out permission.