Japan fails to secure US tariff exemption guarantee

Japan’s trade minister said he had failed to secure assurances from US officials that his country would be exempt from tariffs, some of which are set to take effect tomorrow, Euronews reported.

Yoji Muto took part in talks in Washington over tariffs on a range of Japanese exports, including cars, steel and aluminium.

Muto said Japan, which contributes to the US economy through significant investment and job creation in the United States, “should not be subject” to the 25% tariffs.

His meetings with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and White House economic adviser Kevin Gassett came just two days before the steel and aluminium tariffs were due to take effect.

US President Donald Trump also said that a possible 25% tariff on foreign car imports could take effect in early April.

Muto said US officials acknowledged Japan’s contribution and agreed to continue talks, but did not approve his request to exempt Japan from the high tariffs.

Tags: USA, Japan, restrictions