The Sankei Shimbun 
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba responds to questions from the press after receiving a report on Japan-US tariff negotiations from Minister for Economic Revitalization Ryosei Akazawa. April 17, Prime Minister's Office (©Sankei by Ataru Haruna).
Is the Shigeru Ishiba administration so unprepared that President Donald Trump's sudden attendance at the tariff talks could throw it off course? Ishiba must recognize the seriousness of these negotiations over United States tariff measures and respond with greater caution and foresight.
Minister for Economic Revitalization Ryosei Akazawa visited Washington, DC, and held high-level talks with President Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Trump emphasized that talks with Japan are "a priority," and both sides agreed to aim for an early agreement. Akazawa's key task is to press for a revision of the new Trump-era tariffs — a move closely watched by Europe, Southeast Asia, and other US allies concerned about American unilateralism.
Unprepared and Reactive
Despite the stakes, the Ishiba administration appears once again to be responding passively. Just before talks began, Trump announced via social media that he would personally attend, and he raised the issue of US troop costs in Japan. In apparent haste, Prime Minister Ishiba convened a late-night strategy meeting with senior officials.
No Defense Ministry staff accompanied Akazawa to Washington, casting doubt on whether the government had adequately prepared for discussions involving security issues. This contravenes the Prime Minister's earlier commitment to mobilize the full resources of government for the talks.
Key Issues at Stake
Akazawa conveyed Japan's disappointment over the tariffs and requested their review. Discussion topics included Japan's automotive safety standards, agricultural imports, and, potentially, currency issues, although the latter was not addressed in this round.
Another major issue has been Japan's financial burden in hosting US forces. Japan's cost-sharing under the Special Measures Agreement exceeds ¥1 trillion JPY ($6.49 billion USD) over five years from fiscal 2022, far more than other countries. President Trump is no doubt fully aware of this context.
Leadership Vacuum
After the meeting, Trump posted online, calling it "big progress." His surprise participation likely reflects a desire to control the direction and outcome of the talks — and to strengthen his position ahead of future negotiations with other countries.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Ishiba has shown little urgency. After the meeting, he merely said he would visit the US to meet Trump "at the most appropriate time." But will that be in time to sway the President?
The real question now is whether Ishiba has the determination and initiative to lead Japan through these crucial negotiations.
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(Read the article in Japanese.)
Author: The Sankei Shimbun
