Japan seeks 'win-win' solution with US on tariffs - press secretary
Metro Manila, Philippines - Japanese Foreign Ministry spokesperson and Press Secretary Kitamura Toshihiro said Tokyo is committed to reaching a “win-win” solution with Washington over reciprocal tariffs, amid growing global concern about how United States trade policies could affect the world economy, including key partners like the Philippines.
In a one-on-one interview with NewsWatch Plus, Kitamura said Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba had discussed the matter directly with US President Donald Trump in a recent phone call. Both sides agreed to launch a ministerial-level dialogue to negotiate the issue.
“Minister [Ryosei] Akazawa was designated as the chief negotiator and he is currently in Washington, D.C. to hold the second round of negotiations,” Kitamura said.
“We hope we can find a good solution between the two countries, which is not only good for both Japan and the United States, but also for the world, including the Philippines,” he said.
Kitamura acknowledged that Japanese businesses, particularly those in the Philippines, are concerned about the impact of US tariffs and retaliatory measures by China.
He said the Japanese government consulted with its business community in the Philippines before conveying their concerns to US counterparts.
“We heard the concerns of the Japanese community this morning as well. Based on those opinions, we convey our message to our counterpart in the US,” he said.
Kitamura said Japan is negotiating beyond its interests..
“What we would like to find out is a way which is a win-win for both the US, Japan, and other parts of the world,” he said. “Many Japanese businesses are operating here in the Philippines, and they will also be affected by this US tariff.”
He acknowledged international observations that Japan's negotiations could serve as a test case for the direction of US trade policy under Trump, especially amid concerns that continued protectionist measures might alienate the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.
“As I said, we try to first of all convey our concern to the US administration and try to find a solution — not only for Japan, but one that could apply to every part of the world,” Kitamura said.
The Japanese government reiterated its support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s economic agenda, particularly his goal to elevate the Philippines to upper-middle income status.
Kitamura said Japan is ready to assist Manila in achieving that ambition, noting the long-standing contributions of Japanese businesses in the country.
