Japan’s leader meets Trump at G7 to discuss trade

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba met U.S. President Donald Trump on June 16 at the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Kananaskis, Canada, hoping to secure a trade agreement. The 30-minute meeting focused on reducing U.S. tariffs, especially the 25% tax on Japanese cars and 50% on steel and aluminum, which are hurting Japan’s economy.

Despite their efforts, no deal was reached. Ishiba told reporters in Calgary that both sides still have differences but agreed to keep talking. Japan’s auto industry, a major employer and contributor to the country’s economy, is at risk, with potential losses of $17 billion due to these tariffs. Ishiba is under pressure as Japan faces a possible recession and an important election next month.

A trade deal could boost his approval ratings, which recently rose to 38% after efforts to tackle rising rice prices. Before the summit, Japan’s negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, held six rounds of talks with U.S. officials, but no major progress was made. Ishiba emphasized protecting Japan’s interests while seeking a fair deal.

The leaders will meet again at the NATO summit in The Hague on June 24, offering another chance to address trade issues. Japan, a major investor in the U.S., hopes to use this leverage to ease tariff burdens and strengthen economic ties.