High-Stakes Tariff Talks: Japan's Ryosei Akazawa Heads to Washington

Japan's chief tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, announced plans to visit Washington next week for high-level discussions with the United States. The talks aim to strike a deal that prevents a looming 25% tariff on Japanese imports.

Facing an August 1 deadline, Tokyo is keen to reach a beneficial agreement. Akazawa emphasized the importance of safeguarding Japan's national interests while negotiating with U.S. officials.

Akazawa was in Osaka hosting a U.S. delegation at the World Expo 2025 but did not engage in tariff discussions with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent during the visit.

(With inputs from agencies.)