Japanese top negotiator holds 'in-depth' discussion on tariffs with US commerce secretary

ISTANBUL

Japan's top negotiator, Akazawa Ryosei, on Thursday held an "in-depth" discussion on the US tariffs with US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick via phone.

Both sides "reaffirmed their respective positions on the series of tariff measures by the United States and had an in-depth exchange of views," said a statement from the Japanese Foreign Ministry.

"Japan will continue to vigorously coordinate with the United States," it added.

On July 7, Trump notified several US trading partners of increased country-specific "reciprocal tariff" rates. Japan would now be subject to 25% of the tax, effective from Aug. 1, up from 24% announced in April.

The US already imposed a 25% tariff in April on all automobile imports.