High-Stakes Tariff Talks: Japan Sets Sights on Washington

Japan's chief tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, aims to visit Washington for crucial talks with the U.S. in an attempt to prevent a looming 25% tariff on Japanese imports. Tokyo is working against time to meet the August 1 deadline and secure a favorable trade deal.

In a bid to circumvent a hefty tariff on Japanese imports, Japan's top tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, has set his sights on Washington. Akazawa announced on Saturday that he would visit the U.S. capital next week for further ministerial-level discussions.

The visit comes as Tokyo races against an August 1 deadline, aiming to negotiate a deal to prevent President Donald Trump's proposed tariff of 25% on imports from Japan. The stakes are high as both nations seek to stabilize trade relations amidst growing economic tensions.

As the deadline looms, the outcome of these talks could have significant implications for the future of U.S.-Japan trade, with industries on both sides closely monitoring the situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)