Japan Pushes for Tariff Relief in High-Stakes U.S. Trade Talks

Japan’s top trade envoy Ryosei Akazawa is set to return to Washington on May 30 for a fourth round of negotiations with the United States, just a week after the current round, according to sources familiar with the matter. The back-to-back meetings underscore Japan’s urgency to resolve key tariff disputes, particularly on steel and autos.

While Akazawa is meeting with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer this weekend, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent—viewed as a crucial decision-maker—will be absent. Bessent reportedly told Akazawa in a private call that he prefers to engage in the next round of talks.

Tokyo continues to press for the full removal of U.S. tariffs on autos and steel, calling them unfair trade barriers. Washington, however, remains hesitant, citing domestic industry protections. "Our position remains unchanged—we strongly demand the elimination of tariffs," Akazawa told reporters ahead of his departure, adding that any deal must be “win-win” and mutually acceptable.

In an effort to break the deadlock, Japan is reportedly offering concessions, including cooperation in shipbuilding, streamlined vehicle import certifications, and increased imports of U.S. corn and soybeans—key exports for the American heartland.

Despite the tense backdrop, Japan is signaling flexibility in pursuit of a breakthrough. Akazawa emphasized the need to fully consider U.S. proposals while striving for common ground.

With tariff issues threatening to derail broader U.S.-Japan economic relations, next week’s talks could prove decisive in shaping the future of bilateral trade policy. Both sides face mounting pressure to reach a deal that balances economic interests and political realities.