US Criticizes Japan's 700% Rice Tariff Amid Trade Tensions

The U.S. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized Japan's rice import tariff, claiming it reaches 700 percent, during a recent press briefing. Leavitt emphasized President Trump's focus on reciprocal trade practices, hinting that Japan’s tariffs might trigger U.S. retaliatory measures. Japan's Agriculture Minister Eto Taku responded, clarifying that the actual tariff structure includes a mandatory tariff-free import quota, and excess imports incur a levy of 341 yen per kilogram. He expressed concern over the misinterpretation of Japan's tariff policy and stressed the importance of respecting existing trade agreements to maintain trust. The U.S. International Trade Commission has reported that an increase in U.S. rice production could occur if Japan expands its duty-free import quota, while also criticizing Japan's import policies for their lack of transparency.