Japan Top Trade Negotiator Meets US Ahead August 1 Tariff Deadline

Japan’s chief trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa has traveled to Washington for an eighth round of intense trade talks with U.S. officials as a looming August 1 deadline for higher U.S. tariffs approaches. The discussions, which include meetings with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, aim to achieve a mutually beneficial agreement amid tensions over auto and agricultural tariffs. U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent emphasized seeking the best deal for the American people, signaling a firm U.S. stance despite Japan’s efforts to review tariffs on automobiles and increase American imports. Meanwhile, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba faces domestic political pressure after his coalition lost its majority in the upper house election, yet he remains committed to direct talks with President Donald Trump to focus on investment rather than tariffs. Both sides acknowledge the difficulty of negotiations as they seek common ground to avoid the economic impact of the proposed 25 percent reciprocal tariffs that could harm Japan’s key auto sector. Japan continues to push for an agreement that balances national interests and promotes greater U.S.-Japan trade cooperation.