President Trump complained that Japan is facing rice shortages but is unwilling to import a large amount of rice from the United States, hinting at terminating US-Japan negotiations. In response, the Japanese government stated on Tuesday that in their tariff negotiations with the United States, they will not sacrifice their domestic agriculture as a concession.
Japan’s tariff negotiation representative and Minister of Economic Revitalization, Akazawa Ryo, stated at a press conference, “I have repeatedly stated that agriculture is the foundation of our country.” “In negotiations with the United States, our position remains unchanged: we will not engage in negotiations that harm the interests of the agricultural sector.”
Akazawa emphasized that the government and the ruling coalition have the responsibility of creating a secure farming environment for farmers. He mentioned that they will continue communicating with US representatives as there are still disagreements on some issues, leading to an overall agreement not being reached. Japan hopes to achieve an agreement that benefits both parties while safeguarding Japan’s interests. Akazawa refused to disclose whether the rice issue is included in the negotiation content.
Although the automotive industry is a significant employment and export industry in Japan, the agricultural population has always been an important support group for the ruling party led by Shigeru Shio. With the upcoming elections for the House of Councillors in Japan approaching on July 20th, the Liberal Democratic Party must carefully balance economic development with agricultural interests.
While Trump made comments on rice on social m…
There have been seven rounds of visits to Washington by Akazawa, continuously pushing for progress in the negotiations.
On Monday, Trump posted on “Truth Social” stating that some countries have been “spoiled”. “I have great respect for Japan, but they are not willing to buy our rice, yet they are facing serious rice shortages.” Trump mentioned his plans to send a letter to Japan on July 9 (the deadline for the temporary suspension of reciprocal tariffs), notifying Japan that they will face tariffs of 25%, or even 35%, 50%, 10%, to urge Japan to continue their trade partnership with the United States in the future.
Japan has been working hard to address the situation of doubled rice prices, partly due to poor weather in 2023 leading to decreased rice quality, causing supply shortages last year. In an effort to lower rice prices, the Japanese government has released almost all emergency rice reserves since March this year.