Japanese Minister Akazawa Holds Seventh U.S. Tariff Talks June 26-29 With Commerce Secretary Lutnick, No Agreement Reached

Japanese Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa visited the United States from June 26 to June 29, 2025, to engage in the seventh round of high-level tariff negotiations with the U.S. government. The talks focused on the Trump administration's tariff measures, particularly the suspension and potential extension of the additional mutual tariffs, with a key deadline set for July 9, 2025. During his visit, Akazawa held discussions with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, reaffirming their respective positions and agreeing to continue working toward an agreement. Despite intensive negotiations, no major breakthrough or agreement was reached by the end of the visit. Akazawa also sought a meeting with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, which did not materialize. He conducted multiple phone calls with Lutnick after the in-person talks, describing the discussions as "fruitful" and expressing his commitment to continue vigorous negotiations. The Japanese government aims to make progress before the July 9 deadline, which marks the expiration of the temporary suspension of the additional tariffs imposed under the Trump administration. Akazawa returned to Japan on June 30, 2025, stating his intention to maintain discussions with the three U.S. cabinet members involved in the negotiations.