Japan’s PM and Cabinet Secretary comments seek to dilute market damage

Japan’s top officials signaled growing concern over the potential fallout from U.S. tariffs, with Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi saying Tokyo is monitoring financial markets “with a sense of urgency” and will carefully assess Washington’s claims regarding non-tariff barriers.

Speaking to reporters, Hayashi emphasised that any removal of such barriers must avoid harming Japanese society, underscoring the sensitivity of the ongoing trade discussions.

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba echoed the message, stating that Japan is reviewing the non-tariff issues raised by the U.S., while defending Japan’s trade practices. “Japan has created the biggest investment and jobs in the United States and has never done anything unfair,” Ishiba said.

The coordinated messaging highlights Tokyo’s intent to manage growing economic tensions, as U.S. tariffs are expected to have a significant impact on Japan-U.S. economic relations.

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Japanese stocks have been smashed today:

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.