Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary: Japan is concerned that the U.S. tariff decision may not comply with WTO agreements
In a press conference, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshifumi Ryo stated that the Japanese government found it extremely regrettable that the United States imposed retaliatory tariffs and expressed concern that this decision might not be in line with bilateral agreements and WTO agreements.
He emphasized: "We are seriously concerned about whether this decision complies with WTO agreements and the Japan-U.S. trade agreement. After issuing this statement, we once again informed the U.S. government of our regret over this move and urged the U.S. government to reconsider this measure."
According to Ryo, Tokyo officials have repeatedly requested the exemption of new Japanese tariffs from Washington at different levels.
He added: "Other large-scale trade restriction measures recently taken by the U.S. government may have significant impacts on the economic relations between the two countries as well as the global economy and the entire multilateral trading system in the end."
U.S. President Trump signed an order imposing a 25% tariff on imported passenger cars, light trucks, and auto parts starting April 3, stating that this move is necessary to protect "national security." Additionally, a 24% tariff will be imposed on Japan under the so-called "reciprocal tariff" framework.
Japan's Prime Minister admitted last week during a hearing of the House of Councillors Budget Committee that the additional tariffs imposed by the United States on imported automobiles will have a "significant impact" on Japan's economy.
Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1828362379351113/
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