On the 7th (local time), Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba had a 25-minute phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss tariff issues, according to Kyodo News.
According to Kyodo News, Prime Minister Ishiba noted that Japan has been the world's largest investor in the United States for five consecutive years. He also conveyed concerns that the U.S. tariff measures could reduce investment capacity for Japanese corporations.
Prime Minister Ishiba said, "We should pursue broad cooperation that benefits both sides, including expanding investment, rather than unilateral tariffs," and he noted that the U.S. and Japan have decided to appoint ministers to continue tariff consultations.
Prime Minister Ishiba explained that he plans to request the U.S. to exempt Japan from tariffs, based on consultations between U.S.-Japan ministers. However, he stated that the Japanese minister in charge of tariff negotiations has not been determined.
Prime Minister Ishiba reported that President Trump expressed a candid recognition of the situation the U.S. currently faces in the international economy.
Prime Minister Ishiba showed his intention to visit the U.S., stating, "I believe it is natural to meet directly with President Trump at the most appropriate time."
It is interpreted that Prime Minister Ishiba, prior to the implementation of a 24% reciprocal tariff on Japan on the 9th (local time), had a phone call with President Trump to demonstrate the political and economic will to resolve issues.
The U.S. announced successive tariffs of 25% on steel and aluminum, 25% on automobiles, and reciprocal tariffs, without granting any exceptions for Japan.
Japan has persistently requested exemptions, emphasizing that its corporations significantly contribute to the U.S. economy, but has not achieved any notable results.