US, Japan Near Agreement Ending Stacked Tariffs Amid Trade Confusion

Japan and the United States are working to finalize and clarify details of their trade agreement under President Donald Trump, amid confusion and concerns from Japanese officials and industries. The deal, which includes a 15% reciprocal tariff rate on Japanese imports, aims to resolve the stacking of tariffs that had imposed higher levies on Japanese goods, particularly automobiles, where tariffs remain at 27.5%. Japanese trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa has been actively engaging with U.S. counterparts to ensure that the agreed tariff rates do not stack on existing duties, a point now reportedly agreed upon but not yet officially confirmed by the White House. Despite this progress, Japanese lawmakers and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba have expressed frustration with the Trump administration's opaque negotiation tactics and the uncertainty surrounding the timing and implementation of tariff adjustments, which complicate business planning and impact key sectors like automotive and agriculture. The situation underscores Japan's anxiety over maintaining balanced trade relations and economic stability amid ongoing tariff negotiations. Both governments are expected to issue a joint statement soon to clarify the terms and alleviate tensions.