Japan Eyes U.S. Trade Deal as PM Ishiba Considers Washington Visit Before G7

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is weighing a visit to Washington to meet U.S. President Donald Trump ahead of the G7 summit in Canada from June 15 to 17, according to Japan’s Yomiuri newspaper. The potential meeting aims to finalize a bilateral trade agreement and avoid looming tariffs that could significantly impact Japan’s economy.

Tokyo officials are encouraged by signs of progress in ongoing trade talks, especially after multiple trips to Washington by Economy Minister Ryosei Akazawa. Japanese sources cited in the report say the U.S. has shown strong interest in Japan’s latest proposals, sparking optimism for a breakthrough.

Akazawa, after meeting with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, confirmed both sides agreed to accelerate talks with another round scheduled before the G7 summit. He emphasized that a deal remains contingent on U.S. tariff concessions, particularly the 25% tariffs on Japanese autos set to take effect next month. Japan faces a 24% general tariff if negotiations fail.

The Japanese government is exploring several concessions, including increased purchases of U.S. military equipment, liquefied natural gas, and enhanced cooperation in shipbuilding and U.S. naval repairs in Japan. Some officials reportedly hope to time a trade deal announcement with President Trump’s birthday on June 14 to help sweeten negotiations.

While neither the White House nor the Japanese Prime Minister’s Office has officially commented, a decision on Ishiba’s visit is expected following Akazawa’s upcoming return trip to Washington.

A successful agreement would ease trade tensions, protect Japan’s automotive industry, and solidify economic ties between the two allies amid rising global protectionism.