Payam Javan: President Donald Trump met with Japanese officials at the White House on April 16 to discuss trade negotiations, joined by Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Trump’s optimistic posts on Truth Social, describing “big progress” and expressing hope for a deal beneficial to both nations, suggested positive outcomes. The talks focused on military support costs and trade fairness, following Trump’s announcement of tariffs, including a 10 percent universal rate and a 25 percent duty on Japanese cars, though higher tariffs on Japan were paused for 90 days, unlike those imposed on China at 145 percent.

The U.S.-Japan discussions are part of broader trade negotiations with over 75 countries, with 15 nations submitting proposals, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba emphasized Japan would not rush into a deal or make significant concessions, despite U.S. tariffs. Trump’s administration aims to address the U.S. trade deficit and bolster national security through these talks, with National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett noting “astonishing” trade offers from over 10 countries, as the U.S. seeks to renegotiate deals to favor American manufacturing.