Instructions to the Relevant Minister, State Minister, and Parliamentary Vice-Minister regarding U.S. Tariff Measures

On April 11, 2025, Prime Minister Ishiba gave the following instructions regarding U.S. tariff measures to Minister in charge of Economic Revitalization Akazawa Ryosei, State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Ogushi Masaki, and Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Kunisada Isato at the Prime Minister’s Office.

“Good morning. Thank you for coming early in the morning.

Despite a series of requests that Japan has made thus far, the United States imposed uniform 10% reciprocal tariffs two days ago, on the afternoon of the 9th, following additional tariffs on automobiles, automobile parts, and steel and aluminum. This measure could have a serious impact on a wide range of industries.

Although the imposition of extra duties has been temporarily suspended for 90 days, the situation does not allow for optimism.

In this situation, which one could call a national crisis, I request that Minister Akazawa closely collaborate with the Chief Cabinet Secretary and other relevant ministers and work hard on negotiations with the U.S. side in the aim of exploring a wide range of potential cooperation that will benefit both Japan and the United States.

I also ask for steady implementation of general coordination over necessary support, such as financing support programs that account for the impact of the tariff measures on domestic industries.

Government-wide response is indispensable in implementing the above. We have decided to launch a Comprehensive Response Taskforce regarding U.S. Tariff Measures, and we encourage close cooperation and collaboration with the relevant ministries and agencies.

I ask that State Minister Ogushi and Parliamentary Vice-Minister Kunisada provide Minister Akazawa with the proper support. That is all from me.”