High-Stakes Japan-U.S. Trade Talks Hit Washington
Japan's leading tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, is in Washington negotiating with U.S. leaders including President Donald Trump, aiming to finalize a trade agreement before an August deadline to avoid new tariffs on Japanese imports. Talks involve U.S. officials predicting potential trade deals soon despite Japan's political challenges.

Japan's chief tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, met with U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday, aiming to forge a new trade agreement by August. This follows extended discussions with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
The talks, described by Japanese officials as 'frank,' seek to prevent a 25% tariff on Japanese goods. Concurrently, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed optimism about reaching a resolution promptly, despite Japan's domestic political turbulence.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba plans to visit the U.S. if trade discussions advance. However, Ishiba is contending with internal opposition following an electoral setback, complicating Japan's negotiating stance.
(With inputs from agencies.)