Trump presses Japan's PM Ishiba on trade deficit, threatens tariffs

During a recent meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba discussed U.S.-Japan trade relations, with Trump emphasizing his desire to reduce the $68 billion trade deficit. Trump warned that he might consider imposing tariffs on Japan if trade imbalances persist, although he suggested that a resolution could be achieved without punitive measures. Ishiba, who is keen to strengthen ties with Trump, reassured him of Japan's commitment to invest more in the U.S. economy. The meeting also involved discussions about Nippon Steel's recent decision to drop its $14.1 billion acquisition bid for U.S. Steel, opting instead for a different investment approach. Trump expressed his ongoing opposition to the foreign purchase of U.S. Steel, which was blocked by President Biden due to national security concerns. Both leaders underscored their shared interest in countering China's influence while maintaining a strong economic partnership.