Japan PM Says Donald Trump Tariffs Are A 'National Crisis'

Last Updated:April 04, 2025, 09:37 IST

Donald Trump announced a 24-percent levy on imports from Japan even though the country’s firms are the biggest investors into the United States.

US President Donald Trump (Image Credit: Reuters)

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said that tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump’s administration are a “national crisis" as he prepared to hold cross-party talks on mitigating the impact on the country.

Donald Trump announced a 24-percent levy on imports from Japan even though the country’s firms are the biggest investors into the United States.

Shigeru Ishiba said in the parliament that the levies “can be called a national crisis and the government is doing its best with all parties."

Calling for a “calm-headed" approach to negotiations with Trump’s administration, Ishibatold his ministers “to study closely" the tariffs and “to take all measures necessary including financing support" for domestic industries and protecting employment.

“As it is necessary for all parties including the opposition bloc to study and take measures, Prime Minister Ishiba will meet with each of the party leaders and listen to their opinions", his spokesperson said.

Japan’s main Nikkei 225 index dropped over three percent on Friday, following a 2.7 percent decline on Thursday after the S&P 500 in Wall Street experienced its largest single-day drop since 2020.

Tokyo, Japan

News world Japan PM Says Donald Trump Tariffs Are A ' Crisis'