Japan Urges US to Reconsider 24% Tariff Amid Trade Concerns

Japan has expressed strong opposition to the recent announcement by the Trump administration of a 24% tariff on Japanese imports, labeling the decision as 'extremely regrettable.' Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi articulated concerns about the tariffs' potential inconsistency with World Trade Organization rules and existing bilateral trade agreements. Japan's Trade Minister, Yoji Muto, has also communicated directly with U.S. officials, emphasizing that these unilateral measures could harm both economies and undermine Japanese investment in the U.S. Muto raised the alarm about the broader negative impact on the global economy and reiterated Japan's call for the U.S. to reconsider its decision. Despite the tension, Muto expressed a willingness to seek diplomatic solutions. Overall, Japan is actively seeking exemptions and support to mitigate the tariffs' effects on its domestic industries.