Japan Seeks to Eliminate All U.S. Tariffs
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba confirmed on Sunday that he will seek the elimination of all tariffs in trade negotiations with the United States.
Speaking on Fuji TV’s morning program, Ishiba said that “discussions are gradually converging,” and noted that Tokyo’s relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump is “surprisingly good.”
Regarding the agreement announced Thursday between Washington and London — under which high tariffs on British car exports will be reduced while maintaining a basic 10% tariff — Ishiba said this was “just one model” of trade deals, but added, “we must aim to bring tariffs down to zero percent.”
Ishiba added that Washington’s imposition of high tariffs on car imports would make them more expensive for American consumers. He questioned, “For the sake of the U.S. economy as well, shouldn’t these tariffs be lowered?”
Trump said on Friday that the U.S. will maintain a basic 10% tariff on imports even after trade deals are concluded, adding that exemptions may be granted when countries present substantial trade proposals.
