Ishiba was tight-lipped Tuesday about imposing retaliatory tariffs on US imports but said he will discuss “details on responsive measures” with his ruling coalition.
For now, aside from opening the 1,000 consultation decks, he said “we will do everything we can” to help small and mid-sized businesses procure funds after the US tariffs are activated.
“Japan is the biggest investor for the United States. With this in mind, we will continue to strongly call for Japan’s exemption,” he told a news conference.
“If it’s deemed necessary for me to pay a visit to the (United States) myself, then I won’t hesitate to do so.”
On Friday, the prime minister said Trump’s views on tariffs were “difficult to understand” after the 25 percent duties on cars and parts were announced.
“What President Trump is saying is that there are both friends and foes and friends can be more difficult. This is very difficult to understand,” Ishiba said during a legislative committee session.
Source: CNA
