Japan calls US tariffs 'regrettable' amid forced labor claims

Japan has labeled the United States' imposition of new tariffs on numerous trading partners, including itself, as "regrettable." The U.S. claims these tariffs are necessary because these nations lack effective laws to prevent the entry of goods produced with forced labor.

Government spokesperson Minoru Kihara stated that Japan's industry and trade operate in accordance with international norms. He expressed regret that tariffs were imposed on Japan under the guise of lacking measures against forced labor products. Kihara assured that Tokyo and Washington agree the bilateral trade deal reached last year, which included tariff reductions on automobiles, remains unchanged and both sides are committed to its implementation.

The 2025 trade agreement established a 15% U.S. tariff on most Japanese imports, a reduction from the previously threatened 25%. In exchange, Japan committed to investing $550 billion in the United States. The Trump administration recently announced a new package of levies, ranging from 10% to 12.5%, set to replace a temporary 10% global tariff. This move comes amid an ongoing trade war and after courts blocked some previous tariffs.