Japan, US Seek Tariff Deal Amid Deadline Talks

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba met with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent in Tokyo to discuss ongoing tariff negotiations amid looming trade tensions. Bessent expressed confidence that the U.S. and Japan could reach a "good deal," though no specific details, including the threatened 25% tariff on Japanese goods starting August 1, were discussed during the meeting. Both sides agreed to maintain active and constructive dialogue, with Japan's chief tariff negotiator Ryosei Akazawa planning further talks in the United States. The negotiations come as Ishiba's minority coalition faces political challenges that could affect market stability and complicate trade discussions. The talks occurred just before Bessent's scheduled appearance at a U.S. national day event at the World Expo 2025 in Osaka, but the White House has yet to comment on the discussions or the tariff threat. Overall, there is cautious optimism about achieving a mutually beneficial trade agreement between the two countries.