Press Conference by the Chief Cabinet Secretary (Excerpt)

Q&As
 
(Abridged)
 
REPORTER: I have a question regarding the consideration of new import tariffs on automobile imports by the United States. President Trump instructed the investigation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act (of 1962), as he had done before for the import tariffs on steel and aluminum products. In the case of automobiles, there is concern that Japanese companies could be impacted. What is the view of the Government?
 
CHIEF CABINET SECRETARY SUGA: Firstly, we are fully aware that the U.S. Government announced the initiation of an investigation. At this point in time, I would like to refrain from making comments based on conjecture regarding the direction and outcomes of the investigation. Having said that, as a country which attaches importance to the multilateral trade system, Japan considers that all trade measures should be consistent with the WTO Agreement. We will continue to closely monitor the developments.
 
(Abridged)