Japan Urges ‘Fairness’ in Currency Negotiations with US in Upcoming Trade Talks

With Japan set to negotiate with the United States in decisive talks, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stressed fairness. In reaction to President Donald Trump’s tariff drive, Ishiba defined Japan’s stance on exchange rates and trade negotiations.

With tensions in trade increasing over deficits and tariffs, Japan seeks to lead negotiations in terms of fairness, targeting currency policies and non-tariff measures.

Role of Fairness in Currency Policy

During a recent interview, Shigeru Ishiba discussed US allegations of currency manipulation. President Trump had alleged that Japan is weakening the yen to help exporters. Shigeru Ishiba strongly emphasized that currency policies need to be managed fairly. Japan has always refuted manipulating the yen, and Ishiba’s response is in line with Japan’s willingness to cooperate without compromising its economic integrity. Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent will spearhead talks on currency.

🇺🇸🇯🇵JAPAN TALKS “FAIRNESS” WHILE TRUMP TALKS TARIFFS

Japan said it wants “fair” currency talks with the U.S – after years of keeping the yen low so their stuff sells cheaper and American goods collect dust.

Trump dropped in on trade talks like a boss, called it “big progress,”… https://t.co/kg2ggMEJe9 pic.twitter.com/qrULblh0rj

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) April 20, 2025

Ishiba did not indicate how Japan would react to future US demands, keeping the door open for further negotiations. Japan is determined to keep currency stability while avoiding external pressure to artificially manipulate the yen. Japan’s export-oriented economy relies on this balance.

Japan’s Position on US Tariffs and Auto Regulations

A prominent matter in the current trade negotiations is the Japanese automobile market. The US has been a long-standing critic of Japanese safety standards, arguing they function as non-tariff barriers to American automakers. Ishiba conceded disparities in US and Japanese traffic laws but assured that Japan’s regulations would be reasonable and not excessively prohibitive.

Japan is said to be contemplating the easing of its auto safety regulations in order to enhance US market access. Yet Japan asserts that it will only make such changes on a reciprocal basis, stressing balance in trade talks.

US Energy Imports: Prospects for Greater Investment

Shigeru Ishiba also pointed to the possibility of raising US energy imports in Japan. He suggested increasing imports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) from the United States. Although Australia is now topping the list of supplying LNG to Japan, Ishiba feels that if the US provides a stable and dependable supply, then US can raise exports.

This emphasis on US energy imports broadens the trade talks’ scope. While tariffs and currency concerns get all the attention, energy imports give Japan a chance to make commitments real. Through an investment in American energy, Japan can eliminate trade imbalances and extend bilateral relations.

A Delicate Balancing Act

Japan’s diplomatic talks with America take place amidst a tumultuous international trade environment. Both nations aim to preserve their economic interests, guided by the principle of fairness.

Shigeru Ishiba’s tactic mirrors Japan’s aspiration to maintain its relationship with America stable and cooperative while broaching essential topics such as tariffs, currency, and trade restrictions. By holding itself to the promise of balanced negotiations and pushing for increased American imports of energy, Japan wants to negotiate a fair and win-win trade accord.