Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba defended his decision not to formalize the recent Japan-U.S. tariff agreement in writing, citing concerns that documentation would delay the implementation of tariff reductions. Speaking during a Budget Committee session, Ishiba emphasized the importance of swift action, noting that the mutually agreed 15 percent tariff rate is the lowest granted to any country with a trade surplus with the U.S.
The debate marked the first major parliamentary clash since the ruling coalition lost its majority in both houses. Opposition leaders questioned the government’s approach and expressed concern over the absence of a written agreement. They warned that the lack of clarity could open the door to further demands from the United States.
Opposition leader Yoshihiko Noda highlighted inconsistencies in statements from both governments, suggesting that ambiguity might compromise Japan’s negotiating position. In response, Ishiba maintained that implementation is more challenging than negotiation and insisted that prioritizing national interest guided his decision.
Yuichiro Tamaki, another opposition figure, called on Ishiba to directly engage with U.S. President Donald Trump to address unresolved issues, especially the timing of tariff changes on automobiles. Ishiba responded by stating the need to move forward decisively.