Tariff Effect: Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba warns US President Donald Trump over call. Here’s what he said

The Prime Minister of Japan, Shigeru Ishiba, held a phone call with Donald Trump to discuss recent US tariff policies. Ishiba raised concerns about the impact of the tariffs on Japanese businesses. The call lasted 25 minutes and focused on economic ties and trade relations between the two countries.

Japan Expresses Concern Over Tariffs

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba called the 24% tariff on Japanese goods "extremely unfortunate." He told Trump during the call that the tariffs could hurt Japanese companies that invest in the US. Japan is the largest foreign investor in the US economy. Ishiba said that high tariffs might limit future investments by Japanese firms.

Also Read: Is President Donald Trump’s plan working? EU proposes ‘zero-for-zero’ tariff policy. Here’s what it is

PM Offers to Meet Trump

Earlier in the day, Ishiba addressed Japanese lawmakers. He stated that he was willing to meet Trump in person if the issue continued. He also said that Japan has not taken unfair trade actions and wants to explain that clearly. Ishiba was one of the first foreign leaders to visit Trump after his 2017 inauguration.

Trump Responds on Social Media

After the phone call, Trump posted on Truth Social. He said Ishiba would send a team to the US for negotiations. Trump also claimed Japan has not treated the US well in trade matters. He did not offer any sign that the tariffs would be lifted soon.

Also Read: No Inflation? Markets tumble, $5 trillion erased in two days but President Donald Trump stands firm on tariff plans. Here’s his message to investors

South Korea Prepares for Trade Talks

South Korea’s Trade Minister Cheong In-kyo is also preparing to visit Washington. The trip is scheduled for two days and will focus on US tariffs. Last week, Trump announced a 25% tariff on South Korean goods. Existing tariffs on steel, cars and auto parts remain in place. South Korea's ministry said it would work to reduce the effects on its industries.

FAQs

Why is Japan concerned about US tariffs?
Japan believes the tariffs will reduce its companies’ ability to invest in the US, affecting economic cooperation and trade growth.

What actions is South Korea taking in response to the tariffs?
South Korea is sending its trade minister to Washington for talks to reduce the impact of US tariffs on Korean industries.