U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed confidence in reaching a favorable outcome on tariffs ahead of a key meeting with a Japanese delegation in Washington on Wednesday.
“Japan is coming in today to negotiate Tariffs, the cost of military support, and ‘trade fairness’,” Trump said in a statement.
“I will attend the meeting, along with Treasury & Commerce Secretaries. Hopefully something can be worked out which is good (GREAT!) for Japan and the USA,” he added.
According to Japanese public broadcaster NHK, the first round of discussions between the two nations on U.S. tariffs is scheduled to begin April 17 in Washington, D.C. Japan will be represented by Economic Revitalisation Minister Ryosei Akazawa.
Akazawa is expected to emphasize Japan’s longstanding economic contributions to the U.S., arguing that it is unfair to subject the country to the same tariffs as others, despite its major investments and job creation over the past five years.
While the Japanese government is hopeful about the talks, officials told NHK they anticipate a tough negotiation, citing President Trump’s firm stance on tariff policies.
Earlier this month, Trump introduced reciprocal tariffs on imports, setting a baseline rate at 10 percent. Several countries were affected, though some saw temporary relief as the rate was reduced for 90 days to allow room for trade negotiations.
