International relationsJapan's new smartphone law could exacerbate U.S. trade friction
American group says act hurts Apple and Google, as Trump reciprocal tariffs loom
The new Japanese law aims to let app makers use stores other than those of Apple and Google, which charge fees considered high. (Photo by Masaharu Ban)
TOKYO -- A new Japanese law aimed at boosting competition in smartphone software has been criticized by a U.S. economic group for its potential harm to American companies, a claim that could bring attention from President Donald Trump and his aggressive trade tactics.