U.S.-Japan Trade Talks: Key Issues to Watch

The transcript discusses the ongoing trade negotiations between the US and Japan, highlighting key issues such as agriculture, auto industry standards, and pharmaceutical pricing. The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan is actively involved in driving these talks. The US views Japan as a crucial ally in Asia, especially in the context of trade tensions with China. The potential impact of a US-China trade war on Japan and investor sentiment is also explored. The transcript concludes with hopes for a comprehensive US-Japan trade agreement that incorporates elements from the TPP and recent USMCA improvements.

What previous agreements have laid the groundwork for the current US-Japan trade negotiations?

• RCEP and ASEAN

• TPP and USMC

• CPTPP and TTIP

• NAFTA and the EU-Japan Agreement

Which sector is under pressure and seeking better access to the Japanese market?

• Technology

• Agriculture

• Automobiles

• Pharmaceuticals

What role does the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan play in the trade talks?

• Negotiating directly with the Japanese government

• Facilitating discussions between US and Japanese businesses

• Lobbying for US interests in Japan

• Bringing Japanese CEOs to the US for talks

How is Japan viewed in Washington in terms of trade relations?

• An adversary

• A competitor

• A neutral party

• A strong ally

What is a potential benefit of setting high standards in the US-Japan trade agreement?

• Reducing tariffs on all goods

• Increasing exports to Europe

• Influencing trade standards in the Asia Pacific region

• Improving relations with China

What has been the impact of US-China trade tensions on Japan's exports?

• Increased exports to China

• Decline in machine goods exports

• Stable export levels

• Growth in agricultural exports

What is the expectation for the US-Japan trade agreement in relation to the TPP?

• It will be less comprehensive

• It will incorporate key elements of the TPP

• It will exclude TPP elements

• It will focus solely on digital trade