Japan’s Prime Minister Calls for Full Tariff Elimination with the U.S.

A Principled Battle Over the Future of Global Trade

Amid intensifying tensions between the world’s leading economies, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba issued a renewed public call on Sunday for the complete removal of tariffs in ongoing trade negotiations with the United States. Speaking during a national television interview, Ishiba emphasized that despite strategic differences, his personal relationship with President Donald Trump remained “surprisingly positive,” noting that “talks are gradually converging”—but partial outcomes would not suffice.

Response to U.S.–UK Deal: Partial Cuts Aren’t Enough

Ishiba directly addressed the recent trade deal between the U.S. and the UK, which lowered select tariffs on automobiles while retaining a 10% base import duty. “That’s one possibility,” Ishiba said, “but we should aim for zero percent tariffs.” His statement drew a clear ideological line, rejecting compromises and reinforcing Japan’s vision of open trade.

Japan’s Vision: Free Markets Versus Economic Protectionism

Ishiba voiced sharp opposition to rising protectionist sentiments in Washington. He warned that maintaining high tariffs—particularly on imported vehicles—ultimately harms U.S. consumers. “Keeping prices artificially high is not in the best interest of the American economy,” he added. “Perhaps it’s time to cut tariffs.”

His remarks echo ongoing internal debates within the Trump administration over whether to maintain baseline tariffs even after signing new trade agreements. Trump recently reaffirmed that the U.S. will continue to levy a 10% tariff on most imports, though exceptions could be granted for countries offering “substantial reciprocal deals.”

A Burdensome Status Quo: Japan Still Faces Steep Tariffs

Japan currently faces a 25% tariff on vehicle exports to the United States—an especially heavy blow to one of its key export sectors. In addition, 24% mutual tariffs remain in place on other goods traded between the two nations. These measures, originally introduced under Trump’s protectionist trade agenda, have yet to be lifted despite subsequent bilateral negotiations.

Ishiba’s call for tariff elimination is thus not only a plea for economic relief, but also a strategic stance—rejecting tariff-based economics even when cloaked in diplomatic language.

Domestic Pressures: Debates on Japan’s Consumption Tax

While addressing global trade policy, Ishiba is also navigating domestic challenges. One of the most pressing internal issues is the potential reduction of Japan’s 10% consumption tax, which enjoys broad public support but raises fiscal concerns.

Ishiba clarified his position, stating: “If we suddenly lower the consumption tax, what will be the impact on the national budget?” Instead, he advocated for targeted support for vulnerable populations, rather than sweeping reforms that could undermine Japan’s fiscal stability.

Strategic Divergence: Japan’s Global Vision Clashes with U.S. Tactics

The ideological divide between Japan’s commitment to open markets and the Trump administration’s protectionist orientation is not new—but Ishiba’s explicit call for zero tariffs marks a bold and unusually candid move. It underscores Japan’s belief in a multilateral, rule-based trade system characterized by mutual openness and clarity.

In contrast, the U.S. continues to embrace a model that consolidates power in the hands of the stronger nation—leveraging tariffs, regulation, and strategic differentiation between trade partners. While Ishiba refrained from direct criticism of Trump, his remarks strongly suggest a growing unease within the bilateral relationship.

Outlook: Is a Zero-Tariff Agreement Realistic?

It remains uncertain whether Ishiba’s appeal will be met with a receptive ear in Washington, especially as the current U.S. administration views tariffs as a political statement as much as an economic tool. Still, rising pressure from American manufacturers, importers, and consumers could eventually open new avenues for compromise.

For now, global markets are watching closely. The next rounds of negotiations between Tokyo and Washington could influence other international partners—particularly in Europe and East Asia—who are seeking clarity on whether the era of aggressive tariffs is coming to a close, or if this is merely the next chapter in a prolonged geopolitical-economic standoff.