Tokyo, June 1 - Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is considering a visit to Washington to meet with President Donald Trump. This meeting is planned before the Group of Seven (G7) summit in mid-June. The goal is to negotiate a trade deal and ease U.S. tariffs.
Japanese officials have observed progress in tariff negotiations following multiple visits by trade negotiator Ryosei Akazawa. The U.S. has reportedly shown interest in Japan's proposals. Economy Minister Akazawa will return to Washington for further discussions this week.
Japan faces a potential 24% tariff from next month without a bilateral agreement. They are also seeking exemptions from 25% auto tariffs. Some officials hope for an agreement by President Trump's birthday on June 14.
Akazawa stated that both sides agreed to accelerate talks before the G7 summit, scheduled for June 15-17 in Canada. He emphasized that a deal requires U.S. concessions on tariffs, including those on automobiles. Negotiations are progressing on trade expansion, non-tariff measures, and economic security.