Japan, South Korea Officials Engage in Tariff Talks in Washington

Envoys from Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines are traveling to Washington for negotiations with U.S. officials following the Trump administration's recent imposition of broad tariffs on imports. Japan's Economic Revitalization Minister Akazawa Ryosei aims to secure relief from high U.S. tariffs, possibly by offering concessions on vehicle import procedures, while also addressing U.S. demands for increased Japanese imports of autos and agricultural products. South Korean officials, including Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun, are seeking exemptions from reciprocal tariffs and duties targeting their automobile and steel exports. The Philippines is similarly negotiating to retain favorable access to the U.S. market, having thus far avoided retaliation in contrast to countries like China and Canada. Trump’s tariff measures, including a 10% across-the-board tariff and higher reciprocal rates for specific countries, are expected to disrupt global trade flows. The World Trade Organization has downgraded its forecast for global merchandise trade, citing these new tariffs as a major factor.