Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is pushing for the complete elimination of tariffs between Japan and the United States. Speaking on a popular morning show, Ishiba emphasized that reducing tariffs would benefit consumers in both countries.
“Discussions have gradually come together,” Ishiba said, highlighting the “surprisingly good” relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump. He pointed to the recent trade deal between the U.S. and the U.K., which lowered certain tariffs but kept a 10 percent baseline, as a step in the right direction but not enough. “We should aim for 0 percent tariffs,” he insisted.
High tariffs on auto imports not only affect Japanese manufacturers but also American consumers by driving up car prices. “For the sake of the American economy as well, shouldn’t those tariffs be lowered?” Ishiba asked.
Currently, Japanese car exports to the U.S. face a steep 25 percent tariff, a significant barrier for Japan’s crucial automotive industry. In response, Japan imposes a 24 percent tariff on various U.S. goods.
President Trump recently stated that the U.S. would maintain a 10 percent baseline tariff on imports even after new trade deals are made, though exemptions might be possible when trading partners offer significant concessions.
On domestic issues, Ishiba cautioned against a sudden reduction in Japan’s consumption tax, which could harm the nation’s finances. “If we suddenly lower the consumption tax, what happens to the country’s finances?” he questioned. “We have to think if there aren’t other ways that we can help those who are truly in need.”
This push for tariff elimination highlights the ongoing global discussions about fair trade and economic cooperation, topics that resonate with young people worldwide who are increasingly aware of how international policies affect their daily lives.
