Japan weighs bringing shipbuilding into US tariff talks

Tokyo considers investment and technical support in appeal to industry and security

A shipbuilding facility owned by Imabari Shipbuilding. Tokyo may offer cooperation with U.S. companies, but it is unclear if this will be effective in negotiations. (Photo by Mayuko Suzuki)

RIEKO MIKI

May 8, 2025 05:02 JST

TOKYO -- The Japanese government is exploring the possibility of leveraging shipbuilding in tariff negotiations with the Trump administration.

The plan is to offer U.S. companies technical support and cooperation in new ship construction in exchange for changes to the administration's tariff policies. That strategy would aim to contribute to a revival of industry in the U.S. and underscore Japan's contributions to U.S. national security.