Reference News Network July 2 report: According to the website of the "Nikkei Shimbun," U.S. President Trump posted on social media on June 30, criticizing: "Japan is facing a serious rice shortage but is unwilling to accept our rice." In the context of the deadlock in the U.S.-Japan tariff negotiations, this move by Trump is seen as an attempt to pressure Japan, which protects its domestic rice production.
When listing "countries that have been spoiled by the U.S.," Trump specifically mentioned Japan in his post. Trump said he has a high respect for Japan, but questioned Japan's attitude of not accepting American rice even though it is facing a severe rice shortage.
The Trump administration had criticized Japan in March this year, pointing out that Japan imposes import tariffs on rice as high as 700%.
Trump previously stated that if tariff negotiations with countries such as Japan were not resolved before the July 9 deadline, he would send "letters" indicating new tariff rates to each country.
This time, Trump sent a message on social media, warning that for Japan, which refuses to accept American rice, "only letters can be sent," in an attempt to force Japan to make concessions soon.
In a program broadcast on Fox News Channel on June 29, Trump used Japan as an example, stating, "We can also send letters saying 'Dear Japan, your cars will be subject to a 25% tariff'."
The Trump administration is pushing forward trade negotiations with various countries, but so far has not achieved significant results. The only concrete achievements are two agreements: one to expand trade with the UK, and another aimed at easing trade tensions with China.
White House Press Secretary Levitt stated at a press conference on June 30 that an agreement with India will also be finalized soon. (Translated by Ma Xiaoyun)
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