Key Facts
• July 18, 2025: Treasury Secretary Bessent visits Japan, posts on X.
• Bessent emphasizes importance of ‘better deals’ over ‘rushed deals.’
• U.S.-Japan reciprocal trade agreement remains possible, per Bessent.
• Tariff agreement may extend beyond August 1, 2025, high-tariff activation date.
• President Trump plans to impose 25% tariffs on Japan starting August 1.
• Bessent expresses gratitude to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Minister Ryosei Akazawa.
• Bessent to attend U.S. National Day at Osaka-Kansai Expo on July 19.
• Minister Akazawa to revisit the U.S. for further negotiations next week.
Summary
During her visit to Japan on July 18, 2025, U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent highlighted the importance of prioritizing quality trade agreements over rushed decisions. Posting on X, she reaffirmed the possibility of a reciprocal trade deal between the U.S. and Japan, despite potential delays in tariff negotiations beyond the August 1 deadline for new high tariffs. President Trump remains committed to imposing a 25% tariff on Japan starting August 1, placing Japan in a challenging position. Bessent expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa for their warm reception. She is in Japan to attend the U.S. National Day at the Osaka-Kansai Expo on July 19. Minister Akazawa is expected to revisit the U.S. next week for further discussions.
