Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has reaffirmed his commitment to eliminating all tariffs in ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, emphasizing economic benefits for both nations. Speaking on Fuji Television on Sunday, Ishiba called the current 25% tariff on Japanese auto exports to the U.S. a critical hurdle, stating, "For the sake of the American economy as well, shouldn't those tariffs be lowered?"
The leader highlighted the U.S.-U.K. trade agreement, which retains a 10% baseline tariff on British cars, as a partial framework but urged higher ambitions. "We should aim for 0% tariffs," he said, arguing that reduced levies could lower costs for U.S. consumers and strengthen bilateral relations.
U.S. President Donald Trump recently reiterated plans to maintain a 10% baseline tariff post-trade deals, with exemptions for advantageous terms. Japan currently faces a 24% reciprocal tariff on select goods, adding urgency to Tokyo's push for resolution.
Domestically, Ishiba also addressed concerns over potential consumption tax cuts. "If we suddenly lower the consumption tax, what happens to the country's finances?" he cautioned, advocating targeted support for vulnerable groups instead.
