Trump: U.S. and Japan to Accelerate Trade Talks

A U.S.-Japan trade deal could come “rapidly,” according to President Trump, just back from a trip to Japan.  Trump says he and Japan’s Shinzo Abe will straighten out the imbalance of trade favoring Japan with "an announcement probably in August.”

That would be welcomed news as U.S. Ag continue to deal with trade issues, namely China, USMCA and Japan.  Senate Finance Chair Chuck Grassley whose panel handles trade expects trade talks with Japan, to continue for the time being.

“I assume that at some level, and at this point, below Lighthizer, you’re going to have some negotiations go on.”

Grassley added those talks will move up to Trade Ambassador Robert Lighthizer and President Trump before a final deal is announced.

“I don’t think the U.S. wants any announcement, or any completion of negotiations, before Japan has elections for their upper house of the parliament, which would be in July. And the president, more or less, made that pretty clear.”

President Trump and Lighthizer are aiming to recoup farm tariff cuts, lost when the President pulled the U.S. out of the TPP deal.  A key question remains, whether the U.S. can win the current lower tariff rates from Japan, U.S. competitors now enjoy, and not have to play 'catch-up.'

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