As Trump eyes reciprocal tariffs, Japan's red tape draws fire

American Chamber of Commerce faults nontariff barriers in tech, autos and pharma

20250318N Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick are planning broad reciprocal tariffs that will take into account trading partners' taxes, regulations and subsidies. © Reuters

RYOHEI YASOSHIMA

WASHINGTON -- American businesses have flagged Japanese digital regulations and other nontariff barriers as key hurdles to trade as U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to announce reciprocal tariffs on imports April 2.

In addition to the target countries' tariffs, the Trump administration is expected to consider nontariff barriers, tax rates and other policies when determining reciprocal tariff rates. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative had invited public comment on "unfair" foreign trade practices until March 11.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored ContentThis content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.