Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba doubled down on his bold vision for tariff-free trade with the US this weekend, sparking debate among economists and policy watchers. 🌍 Speaking on a Fuji TV morning show, Ishiba called existing auto tariffs a “burden on US consumers” and urged Washington to aim for 0% tariffs—a move that could reshape the $1.6 trillion bilateral trade relationship.
🚨 The stakes are high: Japan currently faces a 25% tariff on car exports to the US, while American products entering Japan get hit with 24% duties. Ishiba argued the current system is “not sustainable,” especially after the US-UK deal kept a 10% baseline tariff. “Why settle for half measures?” he challenged.
💡 The PM also addressed domestic concerns, questioning whether a proposed consumption tax cut would destabilize Japan's finances. “We need smarter solutions to support vulnerable groups,” he said, hinting at targeted economic measures instead.
With US President Trump recently vowing to maintain baseline tariffs despite trade deals, this zero-tariff push sets up a potential clash of visions—and a test of the leaders’ reportedly “surprisingly good” rapport. 📈 Global markets will be watching closely!
