Japan’s Kato Pursues Tariff Deal With U.S., Pauses Formal FX Talks

Japan’s Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato said Tokyo is working with Washington to negotiate changes to U.S. tariffs and aims to secure an agreement that benefits both economies. He added that the government continues to assess the economic fallout and expects the U.S. position to shift as talks progress. Kato said the administration will deploy "all possible measures" to support domestic industries hit by the duties, coordinating with other ministries to cushion the impact while discussions continue. On currency matters, Kato acknowledged improved mutual understanding with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent but said there are no immediate plans for formal foreign-exchange talks, although the two sides will maintain close communication.