Japan Tariff Negotiations Brings Bad Taste to Global Markets

Japan tariff negotiations is nowhere close and fast to a deal done. It still far apart, and expose confusion in Trump’s administration. 

WartaBerita.Net | TOKYO – The Trump Tariffs saga is far from over, and Japan is no longer staying silent. In a bold and unexpected move, Tokyo has pushed back hard against Washington’s escalating trade pressure—sending shockwaves through global markets.

Despite relentless pressure from former U.S. President Donald Trump to fast-track a new trade agreement, the Japanese government made it crystal clear: They won’t be rushed into a bad deal.

Japan Tariff Negotiations: “We Will Not Be Hasty,” Says Japan’s Lead Negotiator

Speaking at a press conference following a high-stakes visit to Washington, Japan’s Economic Revitalization Minister, Ryosei Akazawa, made a striking statement:

“We will not make any agreement in haste,” said Akazawa, as quoted by Japan Times on Monday (April 21, 2025). “There are still significant differences between both sides, and it is difficult to estimate how long it will take to bridge them.”

Akazawa, who leads Japan’s negotiation team, emphasized that the talks could take much longer than expected—despite Trump’s calls to accelerate the process.

Trump’s Tariffs: A Heavy Blow to Japan

Since March, Trump’s revived tariff policies have slapped heavy duties on major trade partners, with Japan facing some of the steepest penalties:

• 25% tariffs on automobiles and steel
• 10% on most other goods

And starting in May 2025, an additional round targeting auto parts.

To make matters worse, Japan could be hit with a harsh 24% “reciprocal tariff”, which was temporarily enforced in early April and may return if talks stall.

Japan’s Counterplay: Regulatory Reform as a Bargaining Chip

In a strategic twist, Japan may ease regulations in its domestic automotive sector—regulations long criticized by Trump as “non-tariff barriers” to American car sales.

According to Asahi Shimbun, this move is being considered as part of Tokyo’s broader negotiation strategy. However, Akazawa stressed that Japan will always prioritize its national interest in doing Japan tariff negotiations with US.

“I made it clear that the U.S. tariff policy is deeply regrettable,” Akazawa said upon arrival at Haneda Airport, Tokyo. “Japan strongly urges a re-evaluation of this approach.”

PM Ishiba Orders Full Mobilization for Next Round of Talks of Japan Tariff Negotiations With US

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba isn’t holding back either. He has instructed all relevant ministries to accelerate preparations for the next ministerial-level negotiation round, set for the end of April.

More notably, Ishiba hinted at potential financial aid packages and domestic countermeasures in response to Trump’s aggressive tariffs.

“We will consider all options that serve Japan’s best interests,” Ishiba said firmly.

Global Stakes: Could This Spark a Worldwide Slowdown?

Experts warn that the Trump Tariffs don’t just threaten Japan—they risk triggering a domino effect across global trade networks. Disruptions in supply chains and trade tensions could derail the fragile economic recovery still underway around the world.

If the impasse drags on, analysts fear a chilling effect on global growth, especially in key industries like automotive, electronics, and heavy manufacturing.

Bottom Line: Japan is done playing nice. With strong words, strategic reforms, and potential financial countermeasures, Tokyo is showing in this Japan tariff negotiations, it won’t be bullied at the negotiating table. The world is now watching—will this trade war escalate, or will cooler heads prevail? [WB]