Japan steps up lobbying in Washington, hedging for Trump's return

Embassy retains an army of advisers, but weak currency causes headaches

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump at a campaign rally at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, South Carolina, on Feb. 10. © Reuters

KEN MORIYASU, Nikkei Asia diplomatic correspondent

February 18, 2024 00:27 JST

WASHINGTON -- The Japanese government is bolstering lobbying efforts in the U.S., signing up new firms and casting a wider net of advisers to navigate the political landscape, with an eye on the possible return of the unpredictable Donald Trump to the White House.