US Treasury’s Bessent Says Japan Trade Deal Still Possible

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said on Friday that U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told him the two countries can still secure a "good" bilateral trade agreement. Bessent later confirmed the assessment, saying a deal with Japan remains "in the realm of possibility" and that he looks forward to resuming formal negotiations. The comments, delivered as working-level discussions continue, indicate both governments want to keep talks alive rather than risk further tensions over tariffs and market-access rules. Neither side provided a timetable or details on potential concessions, but the coordinated messaging suggests Washington and Tokyo are seeking common ground after months of inconclusive exchanges.