Japan Urges U.S. to Ease Auto and Steel Tariffs Amid Tense Trade Talks

Japan has called on the United States to reconsider its tariffs on automobiles and steel during recent trade negotiations, but U.S. officials have refused to grant special treatment, according to a report by Japanese broadcaster NHK.

Economic Revitalization Minister Akazawa Ryosei, Japan’s lead negotiator, appealed to the U.S. to roll back tariffs that heavily impact key Japanese exports. However, U.S. representatives said they could not make exceptions for Japan while similar trade measures affect other countries.

Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru has voiced strong opposition to the tariffs, especially the 25% duty on Japanese automobile exports, a core component of Japan’s economy. The tariffs, introduced under President Donald Trump’s “reciprocal” trade policy, have strained relations between the two major economies.

Japanese officials fear that instead of reducing tariffs, the U.S. may push Japan to import more American cars and agricultural products to help narrow the trade imbalance. The report also highlighted lingering concerns in Tokyo that Washington may not return to the negotiating table on tariff reductions.

Trump’s administration previously announced a 24% tariff on Japan, which was quickly delayed but remains a looming threat in ongoing trade discussions. Despite U.S. resistance, Japanese negotiators remain firm on their demand to lower tariffs and are expected to continue pressing the issue in future talks.

The standoff underscores growing tensions in Japan-U.S. trade relations, with no immediate resolution in sight. As both sides stick to their positions, the impact of these tariffs could ripple across global markets and affect key sectors, including automotive and steel industries.