Japan’s top economic negotiator stated on Saturday that the broad trade agreement with the United States is “not settled,” citing the absence of expected U.S. presidential orders on critical tariffs. While Washington has issued orders related to general tariffs and those on automobiles and auto parts, it has not yet finalized the orders granting most-favored-nation status for pharmaceuticals and semiconductors.
Ryosei Akazawa, Japan’s minister for economic policy, conveyed this message to reporters upon returning from talks in Washington. He emphasized that Tokyo would continue to press for the issuance of the remaining presidential orders, which are crucial for the agreement to be considered complete.
In response to the developments, Akazawa announced that Japan would commence a comprehensive analysis of the economic impact stemming from the U.S. adjustments to auto tariffs. This analysis will also assess how Japan’s competitive trade conditions compare to those of other nations, ensuring the country’s interests are safeguarded as the agreement finalizes.
