Japan Seeks Tariff Talks with U.S. Treasury Chief Ahead of Osaka Expo

Japan is pushing to hold tariff negotiations with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during his upcoming visit to Osaka for the World Expo 2025, according to a Yomiuri report citing government sources. Tokyo aims to schedule both a preliminary phone call and an in-person meeting between Bessent and Japan’s top trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, as part of efforts to resolve growing trade tensions.

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to continuing discussions with the U.S., especially after President Donald Trump raised tariffs on Japanese imports to 25%, effective August 1. The new tariff rate has heightened the urgency for both nations to strike a mutually beneficial agreement.

Japan is hoping to host the first ministerial-level tariff meeting on its own soil before the August 1 deadline. Until now, the two countries have held seven such sessions in Washington. Bessent is expected to attend the U.S. National Day at the World Expo on July 19 as part of a high-level American delegation, making his visit a critical window for bilateral dialogue.

Despite Japan's upper house election campaign peaking on July 20, Prime Minister Ishiba has instructed Akazawa to prioritize trade negotiations. Tokyo may also push for a direct meeting between Ishiba and Bessent during the latter’s visit.

With escalating tariffs threatening trade relations, Japan views Bessent’s visit as a key opportunity to de-escalate tensions and revive economic cooperation. The push for talks signals Japan's strategic effort to address trade friction with the U.S. while maintaining political stability at home.