Japan chief tariff negotiator holds fresh talks with US ahead of G7 summit

Japan's chief tariff negotiator Akazawa Ryosei has held a fresh round of talks with top US administration officials. Akazawa, who serves as economic revitalization minister, met separately with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in Washington on Friday. They deepened discussions based on previous negotiations, including on trade expansion, non-tariff measures and cooperation in economic security.

Akazawa later told reporters that the timing of the latest talks was important, occurring before the leaders of Japan and the United States are scheduled to meet at the upcoming Group of Seven summit. Akazawa said he sought the possibility of reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.