Comprehensive Response Headquarters for U.S. Tariff Measures

On April 8, 2025, Prime Minister Ishiba held the first meeting of the Comprehensive Response Headquarters for U.S. Tariff Measures at the Prime Minister’s Office.

At the meeting, the participants engaged in discussions on the current situation of and response to U.S. tariff measures.

Following the discussion, the Prime Minister said:

“Extensive trade restriction measures imposed by the U.S. government have a significant impact not only on Japan-U.S. economic relations, but also the global economy and multilateral trade system.

It is extremely regrettable that the U.S. government has imposed tariff measures, despite our efforts to covey Japan’s concerns and make requests not to adopt unilateral tariffs at various levels.

With regard to the tariff measures by the U.S. government, including the recently introduced reciprocal tariffs, we have grave concerns over their consistency with the WTO Agreement (Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the World Trade Organization) and the Japan-United States Trade Agreement.

It goes without saying that the automobile industry is a key industry of Japan, while the steel and aluminum industries provide basic materials for a wide range of products. These industries serve as the backbone of the Japanese economy. In addition, reciprocal tariffs could potentially have a serious impact on a wide range of industries.

Once again, I ask the relevant ministers to keep the following points in mind.

Firstly, please conduct a detailed examination of the U.S. tariff measures, including announcements made by President Trump, and make a thorough analysis on their potential impact on Japan.

Secondly, please continue to push ahead with diplomatic efforts, including strongly urging the United States to reconsider the measures. I myself held a telephone talk with President Trump last night, conveyed Japan’s position, and confirmed that the two countries will continue to have candid and constructive discussions.

Thirdly, please continue to ensure the provision of all essential support, while the Government has already announced that it would take necessary measures, including financing programs, given the impact of tariff measures on domestic industries.

I request all the ministers to take the three instructions above into account, cooperate and collaborate with the relevant ministries and agencies, and make government-wide efforts. That is all from me.”