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Speculation that China and Japan were dumping U.S. Treasuries was challenged on Wednesday after the U.S. Treasury Department reported a 3.4% rise in foreign holdings of Treasuries in February, reaching $8.82 trillion.
Japan, the largest foreign holder, increased its holdings by 4% to $1.13 trillion, while China, the second-largest, raised its stake by 3% to $784.3 billion. This data reveals that both nations were expanding their exposure to U.S. debt even as trade tensions mounted.
Rumors of mass sell-offs intensified in April following President Trump’s announcement of sweeping reciprocal tariffs. China has since retaliated with its own measures, while Japan has taken a more reserved approach and is preparing for direct negotiations with the U.S. on trade and military cost-sharing.
President Trump confirmed Japan’s involvement in tariff talks, stating on Truth Social, “Japan is coming in today to negotiate tariffs, the cost of military support, and TRADE FAIRNESS. I will attend the meeting, along with Treasury & Commerce Secretaries. Hopefully something can be worked out which is good (GREAT!) for Japan and the USA!”
Currently, the U.S. has imposed a 125% reciprocal tariff and an additional 20% fentanyl-related tariff on Chinese goods, with some Section 301 duties pushing total tariffs as high as 245%. Japan faces a 24% reciprocal tariff but remains a strategic economic partner.
The latest treasury holdings data suggests that China and Japan may be signaling goodwill by increasing their U.S. debt investments ahead of critical trade discussions. Their moves indicate a possible desire to stabilize economic relations and maintain leverage amid ongoing geopolitical and tariff-related tensions.
