Japan and US agree to hold more rounds of tariff talks before G7 summit

Japan's minister in charge of tariff negotiations with the United States has confirmed progress in trade discussions.

The two sides agreed to meet again before the Group of Seven summit in mid-June with an eye on a deal on the sidelines of the event. Economic Revitalization Minister Akazawa sat with US Treasury Secretary and US Commerce Secretary in Washington for about two hours on Friday.

Akazawa strongly reiterated his request that the US review the tariff measures imposed on Japan. He confirmed that the US and Japanese sides are both sufficiently aware of their respective stances following his fourth visit to the country, and that there has been progress in efforts to reach an agreement. They also have in mind an agreement between Prime Minister Shigeru and President Trump in a meeting on the sidelines of the summit.