Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a crucial tour, first to Japan and then to China. But this is more than just a series of high-level meetings. At stake is India’s effort to deepen ties with major global economies, attract fresh investments, and soften the blow from Trump’s steep new tariffs on Indian exports.


PM Modi begins key Asia tour amid tariff tensions

TOTO, the Japanese toilet maker, introduces a new service. It helps people find nearby public restrooms. Users can scan a QR code to see live congestion levels. The system also allows reporting of problems like broken flushes. This multi-lingual service aims to reduce long queues. The Japanese government is also working to ease congestion for women.



Japan Launches QR Code Service to Locate Nearest Washrooms | WION DNA

Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for the warmth of the Indian community in Tokyo and highlighted their role in strengthening cultural ties. He is set to meet business leaders to boost India-Japan trade and investment.

Pm Modi receives warm welcome in Tokyo ahead of SCO summit | India-Japan summit 

Prime Minister Modi is visiting Japan and China to strengthen economic and tech partnerships, attend the SCO Summit, and hold talks with Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin.


PM Modi leaves for Japan: key visit to Japan, China amid tariff tirade 

TOTO, the Japanese toilet maker, introduces a new service. It helps people find nearby public restrooms. Users can scan a QR code to see live congestion levels. The system also allows reporting of problems like broken flushes. This multi-lingual service aims to reduce long queues. The Japanese government is also working to ease congestion for women.


Japan Launches Service to Locate Nearest Washrooms, Their Occupancy in Real-Time

The Japanese government on Tuesday denied promoting immigration from Africa as it scrambles to dispel misinformation stemming from the designation of "Africa Hometown" cities following a Japan-led conference on African development.



Japan refutes reports of mass migration plan; misinformation spread on allowing african migrants

Tokyo is in the grip of a historic heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 35°C or higher for 10 consecutive days — a first since record-keeping began in 1875. The intense heat is straining healthcare systems, disrupting daily life, and raising concerns about climate resilience in one of the world’s most densely populated cities.

Authorities are urging residents to take precautions as Japan faces one of its most extreme summers on record.

Thousands hospitalized in Tokyo heat 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Japan and China from August 29 to September 1 for key diplomatic engagements. In Tokyo, he will hold talks with Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba on Quad cooperation, economic security, and tech partnerships. In China, he will attend the SCO Summit, pushing for a strong stance against cross-border terrorism.

What PM Modi's visit means for India-Japan trade

Tokyo is harnessing AI-generated video technology to simulate the catastrophic effects of a potential Mount Fuji eruption. Authorities aim to prepare the public and emergency services for a worst-case scenario, while experts weigh in on the actual risk to Japan’s capital.

Mount fuji eruption: AI video shows simulation of possible impact 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Japan and China from August 29 to September 1 for key diplomatic engagements. In Tokyo, he will hold talks with Japanese PM Shigeru Ishiba on Quad cooperation, economic security, and tech partnerships. In China, he will attend the SCO Summit, pushing for a strong stance against cross-border terrorism.


India-japan bilateral ties under review: security cooperation upgrade 

India-Japan bilateral ties under review: Security cooperation upgrade | Modi in Japan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged off Maruti Suzuki's first global electric SUV – the e Vitara – from the Hansalpur plant in Gujarat.
This marks a major milestone for India’s electric vehicle journey, as the made-in-India e Vitara will be exported to over 100 countries, including Europe and Japan.

The Hansalpur facility, now a hub for Suzuki’s EV manufacturing, also features a multimodal cargo terminal with direct connectivity to Mundra Port.

Modi flags off 1st made-in-India Maruti E-Vitara EV for global export | EV push from Gujarat

From Japan to Germany, here's a look at the top five countries with most robots for every 10,000 workers. This list also includes South Korea, Singapore and China.

From Japan to Germany, here's a look at the top five countries with most robots for every 10,000 workers. This list also includes South Korea, Singapore and China.

World’s most automated economies: 5 countries with most robot workers — Check which country tops list

A Japanese city will urge all smartphone users to limit screen time to two hours a day outside work or school under a proposed ordinance that includes no penalties.


Japan's Toyoake city proposes to cap smartphone usage to reduce screen addiction

Amid rising global tensions, Japan is reportedly considering building nuclear weapons. The move signals Tokyo’s concerns over security and regional power balance. Watch to know more updates on this!


Trump's America triggers new nuclear race, why Japan wants to build nuclear weapons?  

Leaders attending the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) included Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Kenyan President William Ruto, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.


Japan Hosts African Leaders For Major Yokohama Summit | GRAVITAS

For decades, Japan has been a pacifist nation. But now, they're considering the unthinkable: building their own nuclear arsenal.
We reveal why the world's most anti-nuclear nation is turning its back on its past and how Trump's policies are forcing America's allies to take their security into their own hands.

Unreliable America pushes Japan to nukes

A dashcam in Kumamoto captured a stunning fireball streaking across Japan’s night sky on August 19. Witnesses across Kyushu and Shikoku shared similar footage, while experts confirmed it was a fireball; an exceptionally bright shooting star caused by asteroid fragments burning in the atmosphere.

Massive fireball lights up Japan’s night sky | Rare meteor stuns Kyushu, Shikoku

Russia has showcased its military prowess through large-scale drills, drawing sharp criticism from Japan, which labeled the maneuvers as provocative. The exercises heighten tensions in the region amid ongoing geopolitical frictions.


Russia showcases military prowess, Japan calls Russian maneuvers provocative

On August 6, 1945,&nbsp; the world changed forever. An entire city wiped out from the face of the earth. At around 8.45 am, a blinding beam of light appeared in the sky, along with a deafening sound of an explosion. It marked the arrival of the nuclear age.<h2>The little boy</h2>They called it 'the little boy', a US B-29 bomber also known as the ‘Elona Gay’, dropped a 10 feet long and 4,400 kg bomb from a height of 31,000 feet. The bomb detonated in the air at 1,900 feet above Hiroshima. It released 15,000 tons of TNT; in an instant, 80,000 people were incinerated, some just leaving behind only their shadows. The US dropped another plutonium bomb at Nagasaki on August 9, which it claims was an attempt to finish the war swiftly.<h2>Why Hiroshima? This was not just about ending the war</h2>The United States have iterated again and again that the bomb was necessary to end the bloody invasion of Japan.&nbsp; August 6, 2025, will be the 80th anniversary of the dreadful incident of Hiroshima. Historians have long debated the rationale of the attack."I had urged (the bomb not be used) because Japan was already defeated and that dropping the bomb was not necessary,” said Ralph Bard, Under Secretary of the Navy, in a memo dated June 27, 1945.Japan was already weak; it had already lost the bloodiest clash of the Pacific War, the Battle of Okinawa. The US have captured the Philippines, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. American forces were within striking distance of mainland Japan. Japan's navy and air force were virtually destroyed. The US had complete control of the sky. Japan had absorbed firebombs in 60 different cities, and Tokyo only had a death toll of 100,000. Japan's economy was crumbling, and there was a widespread shortage of food, fuel and raw materials. It was exploring a peace deal and wanted to preserve its Empire. It reached out to the USSR to mediate a peace deal even though the USSR had not declared war on Japan. The Soviet Union was about to enter the war; it officially declared war against Japan on August 8, 1945.Scholars and historians have debated the logic behind using the devastating weapon. Many, like Herbert Feis, have defended the use of the bomb. While others, like American Historian Martin Sherwin, said that the bombing had complex political motivations. Gar Alperovitz, a revisionist American historian and political economist who later challenged Herbert Feis in his book, Atomic Diplomacy: Hiroshima and Potsdam (1965), claiming that the US used the atomic bomb to gain geopolitical leverage over the USSR. The bomb was not necessary; it was a way to display US military might to the USSR, which was an ideological rival of the West, and send a message to Joseph Stalin, even if they were fighting against a common enemy, Nazi Germany.&nbsp;"The Japanese were already defeated and ready to surrender… dropping the bomb was completely unnecessary," said General Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Allied Commander in 1963, recalling his memories. He served as the U.S. President in 1953, succeeding Harry S. Truman.“We knew we were beaten. We had no arms left with which to fight. The peace party was carrying on a very bitter struggle within the government to end the war,” said Prince Konoe Fumimaro, former Japanese Prime Minister, in post-war interrogation.Nonetheless, President Truman went on with his plan. His rationale was that a ground invasion of Japan would be a bloody affair. Japanese leaders were not ready for unconditional surrender as demanded by the Potsdam Declaration of the Allied forces and promptly&nbsp;denied the ultimatum of July 26.“The question is not whether Truman had to use the bomb to end the war quickly, but whether he believed that was the only way or the best way, given the wider context,” wrote J. Samuel Walker, a more balanced historian. Eighty years later, the debate still carries on, whether Hiroshima was the needed price for peace or the beginning of the Cold War.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Uncover the truth behind the US bombing of Hiroshima with ‘Little Boy’. Was it truly to end the War? Discover the untold motivation that led to the nuclear age. 

On August 6, 1945, the world changed forever. An entire city wiped out from the face of the earth. At around 8.45 am, a blinding beam of light appeared in the sky, along with a deafening sound of an explosion. It marked the arrival of the nuclear age. The little boy They called it 'the little boy', a US B-29 bomber also known as the ‘Elona Gay’, dropped a 10 feet long and 4,400 kg bomb from a height of 31,000 feet. The bomb detonated in the air at 1,900 feet above Hiroshima. It released 15,000 tons of TNT; in an instant, 80,000 people were incinerated, some just leaving behind only their shadows. The US dropped another plutonium bomb at Nagasaki on August 9, which it claims was an attempt to finish the war swiftly. Why Hiroshima? This was not just about ending the war The United States have iterated again and again that the bomb was necessary to end the bloody invasion of Japan. August 6, 2025, will be the 80th anniversary of the dreadful incident of Hiroshima. Historians have long debated the rationale of the attack. "I had urged (the bomb not be used) because Japan was already defeated and that dropping the bomb was not necessary,” said Ralph Bard, Under Secretary of the Navy, in a memo dated June 27, 1945. Japan was already weak; it had already lost the bloodiest clash of the Pacific War, the Battle of Okinawa. The US have captured the Philippines, Iwo Jima, and Okinawa. American forces were within striking distance of mainland Japan. Japan's navy and air force were virtually destroyed. The US had complete control of the sky. Japan had absorbed firebombs in 60 different cities, and Tokyo only had a death toll of 100,000. Japan's economy was crumbling, and there was a widespread shortage of food, fuel and raw materials. It was exploring a peace deal and wanted to preserve its Empire. It reached out to the USSR to mediate a peace deal even though the USSR had not declared war on Japan. The Soviet Union was about to enter the war; it officially declared war against Japan on August 8, 1945. Scholars and historians have debated the logic behind using the devastating weapon. Many, like Herbert Feis, have defended the use of the bomb. While others, like American Historian Martin Sherwin, said that the bombing had complex political motivations. Gar Alperovitz, a revisionist American historian and political economist who later challenged Herbert Feis in his book, Atomic Diplomacy: Hiroshima and Potsdam (1965), claiming that the US used the atomic bomb to gain geopolitical leverage over the USSR. The bomb was not necessary; it was a way to display US military might to the USSR, which was an ideological rival of the West, and send a message to Joseph Stalin, even if they were fighting against a common enemy, Nazi Germany. "The Japanese were already defeated and ready to surrender… dropping the bomb was completely unnecessary," said General Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Allied Commander in 1963, recalling his memories. He served as the U.S. President in 1953, succeeding Harry S. Truman. “We knew we were beaten. We had no arms left with which to fight. The peace party was carrying on a very bitter struggle within the government to end the war,” said Prince Konoe Fumimaro, former Japanese Prime Minister, in post-war interrogation. Nonetheless, President Truman went on with his plan. His rationale was that a ground invasion of Japan would be a bloody affair. Japanese leaders were not ready for unconditional surrender as demanded by the Potsdam Declaration of the Allied forces and promptly denied the ultimatum of July 26. “The question is not whether Truman had to use the bomb to end the war quickly, but whether he believed that was the only way or the best way, given the wider context,” wrote J. Samuel Walker, a more balanced historian. Eighty years later, the debate still carries on, whether Hiroshima was the needed price for peace or the beginning of the Cold War.

Uncover the truth behind the US bombing of Hiroshima with ‘Little Boy’. Was it truly to end the War? Discover the untold motivation that led to the nuclear age.&nbsp;

The bomb that changed everything: Truth about Hiroshima's 'Little Boy'

In June, Japan’s unemployment rate held steady at 2.5 per cent, unchanged from the previous month, according to official data released on Friday. While the headline figure met economists’ expectations, there are early signs that the country’s once-tight labour market may be starting to ease. As per government figures cited by Reuters, the jobs-to-applicants ratio, a key measure of labour demand, slipped to 1.22 in June, down from 1.24 in May. This means that there were 122 job openings for every 100 job seekers, a modest decline that suggests companies may be turning more cautious about hiring. Economists surveyed by Reuters had expected a slightly stronger reading of 1.25, indicating that the dip came in weaker than forecast.<h2>Labour market holding, but momentum slowing</h2>While Japan’s unemployment rate remains one of the lowest among major economies. This drop in job openings could also reportedly be a subtle warning sign of broader economic softening. “Labour conditions remain stable, but the fall in the job openings ratio hints at a gradual cooling in hiring appetite,” economists told Reuters, noting that corporate sentiment may be affected by sluggish global demand and uncertainty around US tariffs.&nbsp;Japan’s export-reliant economy has been reportedly navigating external headwinds, from softer Chinese demand to trade frictions sparked by US tariff policies under President Donald Trump.<h2>What’s next?</h2>The Bank of Japan and policymakers in Tokyo will be closely watching job market trends as they weigh future economic stimulus or rate decisions. A weakening labour market could reportedly pressure the central bank to slow its bond tapering or even pause rate hikes if broader growth risks emerge.&nbsp;For now, the jobless rate is holding firm. But with job offers slipping, economists warn that Japan’s post-pandemic labour resilience may be peaking.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies)&nbsp;

This drop signals potential cautiousness in hiring, prompting economists to caution about economic softening amid external pressures. The Bank of Japan is monitoring these trends closely.

In June, Japan’s unemployment rate held steady at 2.5 per cent, unchanged from the previous month, according to official data released on Friday. While the headline figure met economists’ expectations, there are early signs that the country’s once-tight labour market may be starting to ease. As per government figures cited by Reuters, the jobs-to-applicants ratio, a key measure of labour demand, slipped to 1.22 in June, down from 1.24 in May. This means that there were 122 job openings for every 100 job seekers, a modest decline that suggests companies may be turning more cautious about hiring. Economists surveyed by Reuters had expected a slightly stronger reading of 1.25, indicating that the dip came in weaker than forecast. Labour market holding, but momentum slowing While Japan’s unemployment rate remains one of the lowest among major economies. This drop in job openings could also reportedly be a subtle warning sign of broader economic softening. “Labour conditions remain stable, but the fall in the job openings ratio hints at a gradual cooling in hiring appetite,” economists told Reuters, noting that corporate sentiment may be affected by sluggish global demand and uncertainty around US tariffs. Japan’s export-reliant economy has been reportedly navigating external headwinds, from softer Chinese demand to trade frictions sparked by US tariff policies under President Donald Trump. What’s next? The Bank of Japan and policymakers in Tokyo will be closely watching job market trends as they weigh future economic stimulus or rate decisions. A weakening labour market could reportedly pressure the central bank to slow its bond tapering or even pause rate hikes if broader growth risks emerge. For now, the jobless rate is holding firm. But with job offers slipping, economists warn that Japan’s post-pandemic labour resilience may be peaking. (With inputs from the agencies)

Japan's unemployment rate remained steady at 2.5% in June, with a slight decline in the jobs-to-applicants ratio to 1.22.

Japan unemployment holds at 2.5% in June as job offers decline

A man landed in the hospital after he fainted while brushing his teeth. The 50-year-old suffered deep injuries at his home after he lost consciousness in a strange incident. The incident was revealed by doctors at the University of Tokyo Hospital in BMJ Case Reports. After he fainted, the toothbrush scraped the back of his throat so badly that it started trapping air inside. This could have triggered a serious infection, and he was hospitalised for six days to avoid any untoward incident, Gizmodo reported. However, when he visited the doctor initially, he didn't know that he was suffering from a problem caused by his toothbrush. The case report states that the man fainted while brushing his teeth. At the time, he didn't know about his injury. He visited a hospital with a complaint of a sore throat. When the doctor examined his mouth, he noticed a three-millimetre-long abrasion along his soft palate. There was no bleeding, but the man was given a CT scan. It revealed how serious his injury was, and he was found to be suffering from retropharyngeal emphysema. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/man-survives-52-years-with-toothbrush-in-intestine-he-forgot-he-swallowed-as-a-kid-1750763690198">Man spends 52 years with toothbrush he swallowed as a kid stuck in intestine</a>&nbsp;<h2>Man was hospitalised for toothbrush injury</h2>In this condition, free air or gas enters the area behind the throat. Bronchial asthma is the most common cause of it. However, some kind of physical force or coughing can also result in it. The problem is serious since it can let certain bacteria grow in areas of the chest where they normally cannot. This can trigger life-threatening infections like mediastinitis, or the formation of blood clots in the carotid artery, triggering a stroke. The seriousness of the case led the man to be hospitalised for six days. He was given a prophylactic course of antibiotics to prevent bacteria from entering and growing in the area. Doctors released him without him suffering any complications.&nbsp;The authors of the report stated that toothbrush injuries are less common in adults as compared to kids. They asserted that there is a need for doctors to be aware of the problems it can cause, and medical imaging should be ordered to properly assess the extent of the damage. Those found with toothbrush-related retropharyngeal emphysema should be administered preventive antibiotics and kept under observation at the hospital for two to three days. In 2023, another man in Japan got a toothbrush stuck to the back of his throat, and it had to be removed surgically. Thankfully, it did not cause any damage to any of his organs.&nbsp;

A toothbrush injury in Japan led a man to be hospitalised for days, suspecting that life-threatening bacteria growth could start in the chest, or could trigger blood clots in the carotid artery, raising the risk of stroke.

A man landed in the hospital after he fainted while brushing his teeth. The 50-year-old suffered deep injuries at his home after he lost consciousness in a strange incident. The incident was revealed by doctors at the University of Tokyo Hospital in BMJ Case Reports. After he fainted, the toothbrush scraped the back of his throat so badly that it started trapping air inside. This could have triggered a serious infection, and he was hospitalised for six days to avoid any untoward incident, Gizmodo reported. However, when he visited the doctor initially, he didn't know that he was suffering from a problem caused by his toothbrush. The case report states that the man fainted while brushing his teeth. At the time, he didn't know about his injury. He visited a hospital with a complaint of a sore throat. When the doctor examined his mouth, he noticed a three-millimetre-long abrasion along his soft palate. There was no bleeding, but the man was given a CT scan. It revealed how serious his injury was, and he was found to be suffering from retropharyngeal emphysema. Also Read: Man spends 52 years with toothbrush he swallowed as a kid stuck in intestine Man was hospitalised for toothbrush injury In this condition, free air or gas enters the area behind the throat. Bronchial asthma is the most common cause of it. However, some kind of physical force or coughing can also result in it. The problem is serious since it can let certain bacteria grow in areas of the chest where they normally cannot. This can trigger life-threatening infections like mediastinitis, or the formation of blood clots in the carotid artery, triggering a stroke. The seriousness of the case led the man to be hospitalised for six days. He was given a prophylactic course of antibiotics to prevent bacteria from entering and growing in the area. Doctors released him without him suffering any complications. The authors of the report stated that toothbrush injuries are less common in adults as compared to kids. They asserted that there is a need for doctors to be aware of the problems it can cause, and medical imaging should be ordered to properly assess the extent of the damage. Those found with toothbrush-related retropharyngeal emphysema should be administered preventive antibiotics and kept under observation at the hospital for two to three days. In 2023, another man in Japan got a toothbrush stuck to the back of his throat, and it had to be removed surgically. Thankfully, it did not cause any damage to any of his organs.

A toothbrush injury in Japan led a man to be hospitalised for days, suspecting that life-threatening bacteria growth could start in the chest, or could trigger blood clots in the carotid artery, raising the risk of stroke.

New fear unlocked: Toothbrush injury triggers stroke and deadly infection risk in Japanese man

Ryo Tatsuki, Japans Baba Vanga, is in the news for her July 5 earthquake and tsunami prediction for Japan. What other predictions did she make? She dreamt about the death of a celebrity and also saw a disease taking over the world.

Ryo Tatsuki, Japan's Baba Vanga, is in the news for her July 5 earthquake and tsunami prediction for Japan. What other predictions did she make? She dreamt about the death of a celebrity and also saw a disease taking over the world.

List of prophecies by Ryo Tatsuki, Japan's Baba Vanga: A famous death, a virus and more

After the trade deal with the US, Tokyo has made a big clarification on $550 billion fund. As per Bloomberg, Japan has revealed that just 1–2 per cent of the recently announced $550 billion US–Japan investment framework will be in the form of actual investment, with the overwhelming majority structured as loans and loan guarantees. That’s according to Ryosei Akazawa, Japan’s chief negotiator, who addressed the details on NHK over the weekend in an attempt to defuse public criticism of the deal.&nbsp;The fund, a key pillar of Japan’s trade agreement with the Trump administration, was initially seen as a massive financial commitment to the US. However, Akazawa clarified, “It’s not that $550 billion in cash will be sent to the US.” Instead, most of it will be financing through Japanese-backed institutions, which would earn interest and guarantee fees.&nbsp;According to Akazawa, actual investments in the US will total just $5.5 billion to $11 billion, with Tokyo and Washington agreeing to a 90-10 profit split, heavily favouring the US. Japan had reportedly proposed a 50-50 ratio, but compromised in order to secure broader trade concessions. “For that part, Japan’s just making money,” Akazawa said about the loan guarantees, noting that unless a default occurs, Japan simply collects fees, as per Bloomberg.<h2>Tariff relief saves Japan ¥10 trillion</h2>Despite the lopsided investment structure, Japan expects to save ¥10 trillion ($68 billion) through lower US tariff rates, especially on automobiles and industrial exports. According to Bloomberg, under the new trade terms, the US will impose 15 per cent universal tariffs on most Japanese goods, including cars, replacing higher and often unpredictable levies. Akazawa said he expects the tariff reduction to take effect as early as August 1, even though a joint implementation document between the two countries has not been signed. Instead, Tokyo is urging the US to issue an executive order to enact the tariff cuts quickly. “If you say something like, ‘Let’s create a joint document,’ they will say, ‘We’ll lower tariffs after the document is created,’” Akazawa noted. “We will demand that they issue an executive order to lower tariffs as soon as possible," as quoted by Bloomberg.&nbsp;According to Bloomberg, the fund isn’t limited to Japan–US cooperation. Akazawa highlighted that non-Japanese firms operating in the US, such as a Taiwanese semiconductor company, could also benefit from the financing. The broader aim, he said, is to support manufacturing and tech capacity building in the US, while still securing gains for Japanese lenders. The US–Japan agreement came just days before Washington announced a similar trade pact with the European Union, which includes a $750 billion LNG purchase plan and $600 billion in European investment into the US. The Trump administration is positioning both deals as templates for global trade reset under its “America First” policy.<h2>Public backlash and Akazawa’s defence</h2>Akazawa’s public remarks appeared to be a pre-emptive response to growing domestic criticism, with opposition figures accusing the government of “selling out” Japan. But the chief negotiator insisted that the actual risk to Japanese taxpayers is limited, given the conservative structure of loans and guarantees.&nbsp;“People are saying various things, such as ‘You sold out Japan,’ but they’re wrong,” he said, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;<h2>What’s next?</h2>Key questions remain unanswered, including when the investment mechanism will launch, how the funds will be allocated, and what sectors will be prioritised. With just months left in President Donald Trump’s second term, Japan hopes to finalise the framework within this political window.&nbsp;Until then, officials from across Asia and Europe are watching closely, trying to assess whether Washington’s new tariff-plus-investment model is a fair deal or a strategic trap.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies)

Ryosei Akazawa, Japan chief negotiator, mentioned that this fund aims for $5.5 billion to $11 billion in real investments, with a 90-10 profit split favoring the US. Japan anticipates saving ¥10 trillion through reduced tariffs, particularly on automobiles. 

After the trade deal with the US, Tokyo has made a big clarification on $550 billion fund. As per Bloomberg, Japan has revealed that just 1–2 per cent of the recently announced $550 billion US–Japan investment framework will be in the form of actual investment, with the overwhelming majority structured as loans and loan guarantees. That’s according to Ryosei Akazawa, Japan’s chief negotiator, who addressed the details on NHK over the weekend in an attempt to defuse public criticism of the deal. The fund, a key pillar of Japan’s trade agreement with the Trump administration, was initially seen as a massive financial commitment to the US. However, Akazawa clarified, “It’s not that $550 billion in cash will be sent to the US.” Instead, most of it will be financing through Japanese-backed institutions, which would earn interest and guarantee fees. According to Akazawa, actual investments in the US will total just $5.5 billion to $11 billion, with Tokyo and Washington agreeing to a 90-10 profit split, heavily favouring the US. Japan had reportedly proposed a 50-50 ratio, but compromised in order to secure broader trade concessions. “For that part, Japan’s just making money,” Akazawa said about the loan guarantees, noting that unless a default occurs, Japan simply collects fees, as per Bloomberg. Tariff relief saves Japan ¥10 trillion Despite the lopsided investment structure, Japan expects to save ¥10 trillion ($68 billion) through lower US tariff rates, especially on automobiles and industrial exports. According to Bloomberg, under the new trade terms, the US will impose 15 per cent universal tariffs on most Japanese goods, including cars, replacing higher and often unpredictable levies. Akazawa said he expects the tariff reduction to take effect as early as August 1, even though a joint implementation document between the two countries has not been signed. Instead, Tokyo is urging the US to issue an executive order to enact the tariff cuts quickly. “If you say something like, ‘Let’s create a joint document,’ they will say, ‘We’ll lower tariffs after the document is created,’” Akazawa noted. “We will demand that they issue an executive order to lower tariffs as soon as possible," as quoted by Bloomberg. According to Bloomberg, the fund isn’t limited to Japan–US cooperation. Akazawa highlighted that non-Japanese firms operating in the US, such as a Taiwanese semiconductor company, could also benefit from the financing. The broader aim, he said, is to support manufacturing and tech capacity building in the US, while still securing gains for Japanese lenders. The US–Japan agreement came just days before Washington announced a similar trade pact with the European Union, which includes a $750 billion LNG purchase plan and $600 billion in European investment into the US. The Trump administration is positioning both deals as templates for global trade reset under its “America First” policy. Public backlash and Akazawa’s defence Akazawa’s public remarks appeared to be a pre-emptive response to growing domestic criticism, with opposition figures accusing the government of “selling out” Japan. But the chief negotiator insisted that the actual risk to Japanese taxpayers is limited, given the conservative structure of loans and guarantees. “People are saying various things, such as ‘You sold out Japan,’ but they’re wrong,” he said, as quoted by Reuters. What’s next? Key questions remain unanswered, including when the investment mechanism will launch, how the funds will be allocated, and what sectors will be prioritised. With just months left in President Donald Trump’s second term, Japan hopes to finalise the framework within this political window. Until then, officials from across Asia and Europe are watching closely, trying to assess whether Washington’s new tariff-plus-investment model is a fair deal or a strategic trap. (With inputs from the agencies)

Tokyo clarified that only 1-2% of the $550 billion US-Japan investment framework will consist of actual investments, with most being loans and guarantees.

Japan says only 1–2% of $550 billion US fund is actual investment

Over three decades after the deadly sarin gas attack on Tokyo’s subway system that killed more than a dozen and injured thousands, the widow of a man killed in the incident has warned that the son of the founder of the Aum Shinrikyo, the cult behind the attack, intends to resurrect its operations. Shizue Takahashi also cautioned fading public memory of what happened in 1995 is making it easier for Shoko Asahara’s son to reassert control and rebuild the doomsday religious group.

“Asahara’s second son was born and raised within the Aum Shinrikyo cult and has been indoctrinated during that time by his father’s teachings,” Takahashi told This Week in Asia.&nbsp;“Rather than being encouraged by Asahara’s loyal believers to become the next leader of the cult, I believe he personally desires to seize power and rebuild the organisation,” Takahashi said. “If he becomes as powerful within the cult as his father was, I believe he will try to expand it and create a new version of Aum Shinrikyo.”&nbsp;Earlier this week, Japan’s Public Security Intelligence Agency reported that Asahara’s second son, 31, has emerged as the “second-generation guru” and leader of Aleph, which formed after Aum was forced to disband.&nbsp;<h2>What happened in 1995 attack?</h2>&nbsp;On March 20, 1995, five members of the Aum cult dropped sarin nerve agent bags inside morning commuter trains. They pierced the pouches of the Nazi-developed chemical weapon with sharpened umbrella tips before fleeing. As the trains drove on, the passengers inside were exposed to the deadly fumes. Once the trains stopped, people rushed out of the trains, many vomiting and struggling to breathe, as emergency workers provided care by the side of the road.&nbsp;In the incident, 14 people were killed while more than 5,800 others were injured, many of those who still suffer from vision problems, fatigue and psychological trauma.&nbsp;<h2>What was Aum Shinrikyo?</h2>&nbsp;Aum Shinrikyo, translated as “supreme truth” was founded in the 1980s. The spiritual group was formed after mixing Hindu and Buddhist beliefs, and later elements of apocalyptic Christian prophesies as well. Shoko Asahara, the founder of the cult, declared himself to be both Christ and the first “enlightened one” since Buddha. In 1989, the group gained official status as a religious organisation in Japan. At its peak, it had tens of thousands of members globally. However, it gradually became a paranoid doomsday cult, believing that the world was about to collapse with World War Three breaking out, with only its members surviving.&nbsp;The group became increasingly violent with kidnapping, injuring and killing opponents. It also used chemical and biological agents in other attacks. Following the 1995 attack, it attempted to release hydrogen cyanide in various stations in Japan but failed. While the group went underground following the attack in Tokyo, it did not disappear and renamed itself to Aleph.&nbsp;In 2018, the cult’s wild-haired, nearly blind leader, Shoko Asahara, was executed. Another 12 of his disciples involved in the Tokyo attack and other violent crimes were also executed.

In 2018, the cult’s wild-haired, nearly blind leader, Shoko Asahara, was executed. Another 12 of his disciples involved in the Tokyo attack and other violent crimes were also executed.

Over three decades after the deadly sarin gas attack on Tokyo’s subway system that killed more than a dozen and injured thousands, the widow of a man killed in the incident has warned that the son of the founder of the Aum Shinrikyo, the cult behind the attack, intends to resurrect its operations. Shizue Takahashi also cautioned fading public memory of what happened in 1995 is making it easier for Shoko Asahara’s son to reassert control and rebuild the doomsday religious group.

In 2018, the cult’s wild-haired, nearly blind leader, Shoko Asahara, was executed. Another 12 of his disciples involved in the Tokyo attack and other violent crimes were also executed.

Fear in Japan grows over revival of Aum Shinrikyo. Know all about doomsday cult behind 1995 Tokyo sarin gas attack

A close encounter over the East China Sea unfolded on Wednesday and Thursday as a Chinese JH-7 fighter-bomber flew as close as 30 meters of a Japanese YS-11EB in a manoeuvre that sparked outrage in Tokyo. This close encounter in the international airspace reveals the tension between Japan and China as they look for regional dominance.&nbsp;Japan's Defence Minister called the move reckless, even though no damage or injury was reported. The incidents are part of the growing aggressive assertion of China. It claimed that these incidents occurred on subsequent dates on Wednesday and Thursday for 10 minutes and 15 minutes, respectively. Each time coming as close as 30 meters both horizontally and vertically. This type of movement is known as ‘buzzing’ and is used for the intimidation and disruption of surveillance missions.The Defence Minister of Japan said that this was outside the airspace of Japan. Previously, in May and June, both Japan and China had accused each other of violating the airspace around the Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands.&nbsp;The Chinese JH-7 is a twin-engine fighter aircraft developed by Xi’an Aircraft Industrial Corporation, which has a combat radius of about 900 miles. It is an old model but carries a potential maritime advantage with anti-ship missiles like the YJ-83, which has a range of 110 miles and a 360-pound warhead. With a speed of 1.75 Mach, this has the potential to carry up to 20,000 pounds of ordnance.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">According to Japan&#39;s Defense Ministry, on July 9th and 10th, 2025, Chinese JH-7 fighter-bombers made unusually close approaches towards Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) YS-11EB electronic intelligence aircraft over the East China Sea The Chinese jets came within 30 meters… <a href="https://t.co/XSSuKHmMRP">pic.twitter.com/XSSuKHmMRP</a>&mdash; Nucleus (@NewsNucleus) <a href="https://twitter.com/NewsNucleus/status/1943384618172059819?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Japanese YS-11EB is an electronic intelligence platform operated by the Japan Air Self-Defence Force. With a speed of 290 miles per hour, this twin turboprop aircraft is vulnerable to the close approaches of interceptors like the JH-7. Its primary role is signal intelligence; its side-looking radar and electronic countermeasures feed important data about the Chinese naval movements, such as the Liaoning and Shandong aircraft carriers, which recently carried out exercises in the volatile Pacific.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">まだお読みになっていない方はぜひ。 👉中国軍の戦闘爆撃機、2日連続で空自機に異常接近　意図的でアンプロフェッショナルな危険極まりない行動 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E3%82%A8%E3%82%AD%E3%82%B9%E3%83%91%E3%83%BC%E3%83%88%E3%83%88%E3%83%94?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#エキスパートトピ</a>(高橋浩祐)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Yahoo%E3%83%8B%E3%83%A5%E3%83%BC%E3%82%B9?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Yahooニュース</a><a href="https://t.co/TtYlVgt1Yl">https://t.co/TtYlVgt1Yl</a>&mdash; 高橋浩祐（たかはし こうすけ）Takahashi Kosuke🐺 (@KosukeGoto2013) <a href="https://twitter.com/KosukeGoto2013/status/1943498523527299214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

China routinely sends out its coast guard vessels and aircraft into waters and airspace surrounding the islands, which it calls Diaoyu, to harass Japanese vessels in the area and scramble Japanese jets. Tokoyo has previously protested to the Chinese Embassy in Tokoyo. China previously has accused Japan of flying close to its aircraft and spying on China's ordinary military activity, and demanded that Japan stop its actions. However, this time, China did not comment on the accusations. These actions by both sides test each other's response time in a hotly contested Sino-Japanese focal point of the East China Sea.

The Japanese Defence Minister has accused the Chinese JH-7 jet of flying close to Japan’s YS-11EB spy plane, in an attempt to intimidate and disrupt surveillance missions in the East China Sea. 

A close encounter over the East China Sea unfolded on Wednesday and Thursday as a Chinese JH-7 fighter-bomber flew as close as 30 meters of a Japanese YS-11EB in a manoeuvre that sparked outrage in Tokyo. This close encounter in the international airspace reveals the tension between Japan and China as they look for regional dominance. Japan's Defence Minister called the move reckless, even though no damage or injury was reported. The incidents are part of the growing aggressive assertion of China. It claimed that these incidents occurred on subsequent dates on Wednesday and Thursday for 10 minutes and 15 minutes, respectively. Each time coming as close as 30 meters both horizontally and vertically. This type of movement is known as ‘buzzing’ and is used for the intimidation and disruption of surveillance missions. The Defence Minister of Japan said that this was outside the airspace of Japan. Previously, in May and June, both Japan and China had accused each other of violating the airspace around the Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands. The Chinese JH-7 is a twin-engine fighter aircraft developed by Xi’an Aircraft Industrial Corporation, which has a combat radius of about 900 miles. It is an old model but carries a potential maritime advantage with anti-ship missiles like the YJ-83, which has a range of 110 miles and a 360-pound warhead. With a speed of 1.75 Mach, this has the potential to carry up to 20,000 pounds of ordnance.

The Japanese Defence Minister has accused the Chinese JH-7 jet of flying close to Japan’s YS-11EB spy plane, in an attempt to intimidate and disrupt surveillance missions in the East China Sea.&nbsp;

Close encounters: Chinese JH-7 jet buzzes Japan’s YS-11EB in East China's flyby, outrages Tokyo

Japan has become the first country to cover every inch of the faultlines that trigger earthquakes in the country with sensors and cables connecting to hundreds of observatories to ring the alarm long before the first tremors hit. This ocean-floor "Nervous System" will detect the minutest signs of an earthquake and a tsunami. Scientists say that it will send out a warning about an earthquake 20 seconds before it occurs, and 20 minutes before a tsunami. This warning system will leave emergency teams with more time to send alerts and evacuate people before disaster strikes. Steps could be taken to prepare the infrastructure to brace for the impact. Japan is now the first country that can directly monitor entire subduction zones in real-time. Seismologist Harold Tobin, director of the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network, says the network is more than just an advanced warning system, Scientific American reported.&nbsp;Japan started expanding its earthquake-detection system to cover the ocean floor after the 2011 earthquake that killed nearly 20,000 people. The magnitude 9.0 “megathrust” earthquake was the worst temblor in the history of Japan. It rattled the region for six minutes and triggered a 130-foot tsunami travelling at speeds of 700km/hr. The alerts were delayed, and the tsunami warning failed to gauge the real havoc it could cause. People had as little as 10 minutes to evacuate. The Great East Japan Earthquake started in the ocean 72 kilometres off the shore. Land sensors picked up the seismic waves but had no idea how huge it was and how massive the tsunami waves could be. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/nankai-trough-megaquake-could-kill-300000-people-japan-govt-acknowledges-risk-ramps-up-measures-1751684163613">Nankai Trough 'megaquake' could kill 300,000 people: Japan acknowledges risk, ramps up measures</a>&nbsp;<h2>Japan has wired offshore fault zone</h2>Japan realised it had a blind spot - the ocean. So it decided to expand its earthquake detection system to the ocean. Tobin says, "By wiring up the offshore fault zone, we’re constantly able to listen to it. That means we can detect all sorts of subtle signals that tell us how faults work, such as the storage of stress and how it starts to be released at the beginning of an earthquake." The system has been completed in parts, with the first one finishing in 2017. The S-net (Seafloor Observation Network for Earthquakes and Tsunamis) wired the nation’s earthquake-detection network to the Japan Trench, the point where the 2011 quake began. It comprises 5,700 kilometres of cables covering 116,000 square miles of ocean, connecting to 150 observatories on the ocean floor. Seismometers, accelerometers, and pressure gauges measure the waves. In 2018, a magnitude 6 quake struck Japan, and alerts reached the city 20 seconds before the seismometers on land detected it. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/is-an-underwater-volcano-getting-ready-to-erupt-in-andaman-warning-issued-as-earthquakes-rock-thailand-myanmar-and-nicobar-1751628746437">Is an underwater volcano getting ready to erupt in Andaman? Warning issued as dozens of earthquakes rock Thailand, Myanmar and Nicobar</a>&nbsp;<h2>Nankai Trough earthquake warning</h2>In 2019, Japan started N-net (Nankai Trough Seafloor Observation Network for Earthquakes and Tsunamis), which is now complete. It covers a crucial subduction zone where the last major quake happened in 1946. A report has warned that a megaquake could hit the region in the next 30 years and kill up to 300,000 people, and result in damages worth $2 trillion. The Nankai Trough is a roughly &nbsp;800 km undersea trench and a subduction zone where the Philippine Sea Plate is being pushed beneath Japan. The Nankai Trough was recently in the news because of a 1999 manga comic that predicted a devastating earthquake and tsunami even worse than the 2011 event on July 5.&nbsp;

Japan is highly prone to devastating earthquakes, and the country has readily taken steps to avert the threat posed to its people. It has now covered a project to cover all the faultlines in the ocean with a warning system that will send alerts long before the first tremors jolt the land.

Japan has become the first country to cover every inch of the faultlines that trigger earthquakes in the country with sensors and cables connecting to hundreds of observatories to ring the alarm long before the first tremors hit. This ocean-floor "Nervous System" will detect the minutest signs of an earthquake and a tsunami. Scientists say that it will send out a warning about an earthquake 20 seconds before it occurs, and 20 minutes before a tsunami. This warning system will leave emergency teams with more time to send alerts and evacuate people before disaster strikes. Steps could be taken to prepare the infrastructure to brace for the impact. Japan is now the first country that can directly monitor entire subduction zones in real-time. Seismologist Harold Tobin, director of the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network, says the network is more than just an advanced warning system, Scientific American reported. Japan started expanding its earthquake-detection system to cover the ocean floor after the 2011 earthquake that killed nearly 20,000 people. The magnitude 9.0 “megathrust” earthquake was the worst temblor in the history of Japan. It rattled the region for six minutes and triggered a 130-foot tsunami travelling at speeds of 700km/hr. The alerts were delayed, and the tsunami warning failed to gauge the real havoc it could cause. People had as little as 10 minutes to evacuate. The Great East Japan Earthquake started in the ocean 72 kilometres off the shore. Land sensors picked up the seismic waves but had no idea how huge it was and how massive the tsunami waves could be. Also Read: Nankai Trough 'megaquake' could kill 300,000 people: Japan acknowledges risk, ramps up measures Japan has wired offshore fault zone Japan realised it had a blind spot - the ocean. So it decided to expand its earthquake detection system to the ocean. Tobin says, "By wiring up the offshore fault zone, we’re constantly able to listen to it. That means we can detect all sorts of subtle signals that tell us how faults work, such as the storage of stress and how it starts to be released at the beginning of an earthquake." The system has been completed in parts, with the first one finishing in 2017. The S-net (Seafloor Observation Network for Earthquakes and Tsunamis) wired the nation’s earthquake-detection network to the Japan Trench, the point where the 2011 quake began. It comprises 5,700 kilometres of cables covering 116,000 square miles of ocean, connecting to 150 observatories on the ocean floor. Seismometers, accelerometers, and pressure gauges measure the waves. In 2018, a magnitude 6 quake struck Japan, and alerts reached the city 20 seconds before the seismometers on land detected it. Also Read: Is an underwater volcano getting ready to erupt in Andaman? Warning issued as dozens of earthquakes rock Thailand, Myanmar and Nicobar Nankai Trough earthquake warning In 2019, Japan started N-net (Nankai Trough Seafloor Observation Network for Earthquakes and Tsunamis), which is now complete. It covers a crucial subduction zone where the last major quake happened in 1946. A report has warned that a megaquake could hit the region in the next 30 years and kill up to 300,000 people, and result in damages worth $2 trillion. The Nankai Trough is a roughly 800 km undersea trench and a subduction zone where the Philippine Sea Plate is being pushed beneath Japan. The Nankai Trough was recently in the news because of a 1999 manga comic that predicted a devastating earthquake and tsunami even worse than the 2011 event on July 5.

Japan is highly prone to devastating earthquakes, and the country has readily taken steps to avert the threat posed to its people. It has now covered a project to cover all the faultlines in the ocean with a warning system that will send alerts long before the first tremors jolt the land.

Japan can now detect earthquakes 20 seconds before they hit land. Thanks to an undersea 'nervous system'

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has pledged to continue negotiations with the United States to secure a mutually beneficial trade agreement, after President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 25 per cent tariff on Japanese goods starting 1 August.<h2>Trump’s tariff threat escalates trade tensions</h2>President Trump on Monday formally announced the new 25 per cent tariff on imports from Japan, sharing letters addressed to Prime Minister Ishiba and other leaders on his social media platform. As per Reuters, the letters informed major trade partners, from suppliers like Japan and South Korea to smaller players, of steep new US tariffs.&nbsp;While the tariffs are set to begin on 1 August, Trump suggested he was willing to consider delaying implementation if countries submitted acceptable proposals. According to Reuters, Trump told reporters the deadline was “firm, but not 100% firm,” leaving open the possibility of a negotiated settlement.<h2>Japan seeks balanced deal while avoiding higher tariffs</h2>Prime Minister Ishiba acknowledged that talks so far had helped Tokyo avoid even steeper tariff levels previously floated by Washington. As per Reuters, Trump had at one point signalled tariffs in the range of 30 to 35 per cent.&nbsp;Speaking at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Ishiba said: “We have received a proposal from the United States to swiftly proceed with negotiations towards the newly set August 1 deadline, and that depending on Japan’s response, the content of the letter could be revised.”Ishiba added that Japan would “actively seek the chance of an agreement that benefits both countries, while protecting Japan’s national interest.” He also directed cabinet ministers to prepare measures to mitigate the potential impact of tariffs on industries and jobs, as per Reuters.&nbsp;<h2>Trade talks complicated by automotive tariffs</h2>According to Reuters, Japan and the United States failed to reach a deal before the 9 July expiry of a temporary pause on reciprocal tariffs. Talks have been especially fraught over automobiles, which are central to Japan’s export-driven economy. Tokyo has prioritised eliminating the existing 25 per cent US tariff on cars, a demand Washington has resisted.&nbsp;Ishiba’s government is under pressure to avoid damaging concessions ahead of Japan’s upper house election on 20 July. As per Reuters, Ishiba has repeatedly insisted Japan will not make “easy concessions” just for the sake of a quick deal.<h2>Political risks for Ishiba’s government</h2>Analysts warn that the upcoming election complicates Tokyo’s negotiating position. Recent media polls cited by Reuters suggest Ishiba’s ruling coalition could struggle to maintain its majority in the upper chamber, potentially weakening the prime minister’s domestic standing and leverage in talks with Washington.<h2>Economic headwinds add urgency</h2>Japan’s economy faces wider challenges that make avoiding new tariffs all the more urgent. According to Bloomberg, the Japanese government this week delivered its bleakest assessment of the economy in nearly five years, citing weak consumption and manufacturing.&nbsp;Official data show Japan’s economy shrank in the first quarter, with real wages in May falling at their fastest pace in nearly two years. As per Reuters, the threat of US tariffs has also weighed on currency markets, driving the dollar to a two-week high of 146.24 yen and raising already rising import costs.<h2>Impact on exporters and wages</h2>Economists warn that even with the avoided worst-case scenario of 35 per cent tariffs, the planned 25 per cent duty would still be painful for Japan’s manufacturers. Kazuki Fujimoto, an analyst at Japan Research Institute, told Reuters: “While Japan likely averted the worst-case scenario, 25% tariffs would still hurt exporters’ profits by up to 25%.”&nbsp;Fujimoto added that weakening corporate profits could make it “hard to avoid companies from toning down on efforts to hike wages,” compounding risks to domestic demand.<h2>Hope for deal remains despite tough negotiations</h2>Despite the sharp rhetoric and the fast-approaching deadline, both sides continue to hold out hope for a deal. According to Reuters, Ishiba stressed Japan’s commitment to finding a “mutually beneficial” solution that preserves the country’s national interest while meeting US demands.&nbsp;As the 1 August deadline nears, the coming weeks will test Ishiba’s diplomatic skill and determine whether Japan can protect its vital industries without compromising its negotiating principles, while preserving a stable relationship with its most important security ally.

Facing 25% US tariffs and mounting political and economic pressure, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba vows to pursue a balanced trade deal with Washington, as auto sector tensions and upcoming elections complicate talks.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has pledged to continue negotiations with the United States to secure a mutually beneficial trade agreement, after President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 25 per cent tariff on Japanese goods starting 1 August. Trump’s tariff threat escalates trade tensions President Trump on Monday formally announced the new 25 per cent tariff on imports from Japan, sharing letters addressed to Prime Minister Ishiba and other leaders on his social media platform. As per Reuters, the letters informed major trade partners, from suppliers like Japan and South Korea to smaller players, of steep new US tariffs. While the tariffs are set to begin on 1 August, Trump suggested he was willing to consider delaying implementation if countries submitted acceptable proposals. According to Reuters, Trump told reporters the deadline was “firm, but not 100% firm,” leaving open the possibility of a negotiated settlement. Japan seeks balanced deal while avoiding higher tariffs Prime Minister Ishiba acknowledged that talks so far had helped Tokyo avoid even steeper tariff levels previously floated by Washington. As per Reuters, Trump had at one point signalled tariffs in the range of 30 to 35 per cent. Speaking at a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Ishiba said: “We have received a proposal from the United States to swiftly proceed with negotiations towards the newly set August 1 deadline, and that depending on Japan’s response, the content of the letter could be revised.” Ishiba added that Japan would “actively seek the chance of an agreement that benefits both countries, while protecting Japan’s national interest.” He also directed cabinet ministers to prepare measures to mitigate the potential impact of tariffs on industries and jobs, as per Reuters. Trade talks complicated by automotive tariffs According to Reuters, Japan and the United States failed to reach a deal before the 9 July expiry of a temporary pause on reciprocal tariffs. Talks have been especially fraught over automobiles, which are central to Japan’s export-driven economy. Tokyo has prioritised eliminating the existing 25 per cent US tariff on cars, a demand Washington has resisted. Ishiba’s government is under pressure to avoid damaging concessions ahead of Japan’s upper house election on 20 July. As per Reuters, Ishiba has repeatedly insisted Japan will not make “easy concessions” just for the sake of a quick deal. Political risks for Ishiba’s government Analysts warn that the upcoming election complicates Tokyo’s negotiating position. Recent media polls cited by Reuters suggest Ishiba’s ruling coalition could struggle to maintain its majority in the upper chamber, potentially weakening the prime minister’s domestic standing and leverage in talks with Washington. Economic headwinds add urgency Japan’s economy faces wider challenges that make avoiding new tariffs all the more urgent. According to Bloomberg, the Japanese government this week delivered its bleakest assessment of the economy in nearly five years, citing weak consumption and manufacturing. Official data show Japan’s economy shrank in the first quarter, with real wages in May falling at their fastest pace in nearly two years. As per Reuters, the threat of US tariffs has also weighed on currency markets, driving the dollar to a two-week high of 146.24 yen and raising already rising import costs. Impact on exporters and wages Economists warn that even with the avoided worst-case scenario of 35 per cent tariffs, the planned 25 per cent duty would still be painful for Japan’s manufacturers. Kazuki Fujimoto, an analyst at Japan Research Institute, told Reuters: “While Japan likely averted the worst-case scenario, 25% tariffs would still hurt exporters’ profits by up to 25%.” Fujimoto added that weakening corporate profits could make it “hard to avoid companies from toning down on efforts to hike wages,” compounding risks to domestic demand. Hope for deal remains despite tough negotiations Despite the sharp rhetoric and the fast-approaching deadline, both sides continue to hold out hope for a deal. According to Reuters, Ishiba stressed Japan’s commitment to finding a “mutually beneficial” solution that preserves the country’s national interest while meeting US demands. As the 1 August deadline nears, the coming weeks will test Ishiba’s diplomatic skill and determine whether Japan can protect its vital industries without compromising its negotiating principles, while preserving a stable relationship with its most important security ally.

Japan is pushing to secure a trade deal with the US before Trump’s 1 August tariff deadline, aiming to shield its key industries while avoiding damaging concessions.

Japan vows to pursue US trade deal as Trump’s tariff deadline looms

US President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on all imports from Japan and South Korea, accusing both nations of unfair trade practices. In official letters sent to Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Trump said the new tariffs will take effect from 1 August. This marks the start of a fresh trade push. Earlier, Trump said that he plans to send “12, maybe 15” letters to major trading partners announcing new tariffs.&nbsp;Later, Trump announced 25% tariffs on Malaysia and Kazakhstan, 30% on South Africa, and 40% on Laos and Myanmar.White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Trump would sign an executive order on Monday formally delaying the original July 9 deadline to August 1."There will be additional letters in the coming days," Leavitt said, adding, "we are close" on some deals.The US has reached only two agreements so far, with Britain and Vietnam. &nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-it-s-no-one-s-been-arrested-o-clock-elon-musk-slams-trump-s-fbi-and-doj-over-epstein-memo-1751899376879">‘It’s no-one’s-been-arrested-o’clock’: Elon Musk slams Trump's FBI and DOJ over Epstein memo</a><h2>Letters accuse both countries of unfair trade deals</h2>Trump’s letters to the leaders of Japan and South Korea are nearly identical, blaming both nations for long-term trade imbalances with the US. He posted the full text of his message to Japan and South Korea on Truth Social.Here are excerpts from his letter to Japan<blockquote>“We have had years to discuss our Trading Relationship with Japan,” Trump wrote to Prime Minister Shigeru, “and have concluded that we must move away from these longterm, and very persistent, Trade Deficits engendered by Japan’s Tariff, and Non Tariff, Policies and Trade Barriers.”“Our relationship has been, unfortunately, far from Reciprocal. Starting on August 1, 2025, we will charge Japan a Tariff of only 25% on any and all Japanese products sent into the United States, separate from all Sectoral Tariffs.”</blockquote><h2>No tariffs if companies move production to the US</h2>In the same letter, Trump urged Japanese firms to manufacture in the United States, promising fast-track approvals.<blockquote>“Goods transshipped to evade a higher Tariff will be subject to that higher Tariff. Please understand that the 25% number is far less than what is needed to eliminate the Trade Deficit disparity we have with your Country,” he wrote.“There will be no Tariff if Japan, or companies within your Country, decide to build or manufacture product within the United States and, in fact, we will do everything possible to get approvals quickly, professionally, and routinely, in other words, in a matter of weeks.”</blockquote><h2>More tariff letters expected soon</h2>The White House is expected to release more letters to other major US trading partners throughout the week, as part of what Trump describes as a new phase in his America First trade policy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leavitt refused to disclose which other countries will receive the tariff letters, and said, "I'll let the president reveal those in very due time. Keep your eyes on Truth Social."&nbsp;

In official letters sent to Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Trump said the new tariffs will take effect from 1 August.

US President Donald Trump has announced a 25% tariff on all imports from Japan and South Korea, accusing both nations of unfair trade practices. In official letters sent to Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Trump said the new tariffs will take effect from 1 August. This marks the start of a fresh trade push. Earlier, Trump said that he plans to send “12, maybe 15” letters to major trading partners announcing new tariffs. Later, Trump announced 25% tariffs on Malaysia and Kazakhstan, 30% on South Africa, and 40% on Laos and Myanmar. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said Trump would sign an executive order on Monday formally delaying the original July 9 deadline to August 1. "There will be additional letters in the coming days," Leavitt said, adding, "we are close" on some deals. The US has reached only two agreements so far, with Britain and Vietnam. Also read: ‘It’s no-one’s-been-arrested-o’clock’: Elon Musk slams Trump's FBI and DOJ over Epstein memo Letters accuse both countries of unfair trade deals Trump’s letters to the leaders of Japan and South Korea are nearly identical, blaming both nations for long-term trade imbalances with the US. He posted the full text of his message to Japan and South Korea on Truth Social. Here are excerpts from his letter to Japan “We have had years to discuss our Trading Relationship with Japan,” Trump wrote to Prime Minister Shigeru, “and have concluded that we must move away from these longterm, and very persistent, Trade Deficits engendered by Japan’s Tariff, and Non Tariff, Policies and Trade Barriers.” “Our relationship has been, unfortunately, far from Reciprocal. Starting on August 1, 2025, we will charge Japan a Tariff of only 25% on any and all Japanese products sent into the United States, separate from all Sectoral Tariffs.” No tariffs if companies move production to the US In the same letter, Trump urged Japanese firms to manufacture in the United States, promising fast-track approvals. “Goods transshipped to evade a higher Tariff will be subject to that higher Tariff. Please understand that the 25% number is far less than what is needed to eliminate the Trade Deficit disparity we have with your Country,” he wrote. “There will be no Tariff if Japan, or companies within your Country, decide to build or manufacture product within the United States and, in fact, we will do everything possible to get approvals quickly, professionally, and routinely, in other words, in a matter of weeks.” More tariff letters expected soon The White House is expected to release more letters to other major US trading partners throughout the week, as part of what Trump describes as a new phase in his America First trade policy. Leavitt refused to disclose which other countries will receive the tariff letters, and said, "I'll let the president reveal those in very due time. Keep your eyes on Truth Social."

In official letters sent to Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, Trump said the new tariffs will take effect from 1 August.

Trump kicks off new trade war with high tariffs on Japan, South Korea and five other countries

Japan is scrambling to head off steep new US tariffs, as last-ditch negotiations with President Donald Trump’s administration show few signs of progress. With a crucial tariff pause set to expire on July 9, Tokyo is warning of significant risks to its vital manufacturing sector if a deal cannot be reached.&nbsp;According to Reuters, Japan’s chief tariff negotiator Ryosei Akazawa held “in-depth exchanges” over the phone with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Thursday and Saturday. The Japanese government said in a statement that it would “continue actively coordinating with the US side” in an effort to prevent the higher tariffs from taking effect.&nbsp;Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, speaking on Wednesday, vowed to defend Japan’s national interests, noting that Japan is the largest foreign investor in the United States. As per Reuters, Ishiba’s comments reflect Tokyo’s growing frustration with what it sees as aggressive US demands and limited willingness to compromise.<h2>Trump threatens even higher tariffs</h2>President Trump has repeatedly threatened to increase tariffs far beyond the current 24 per cent level announced in April. This week, Trump criticised Japan for what he described as its reluctance to buy US-grown rice, accusing Tokyo of maintaining unfair barriers. Yet Reuters reports that Japan has in fact imported historically high volumes of US rice in recent months, as domestic prices have surged.&nbsp;Despite those purchases, Trump has indicated he may bypass further negotiations altogether. According to Reuters, he suggested he could simply send Japan a letter outlining a new tariff rate of 30 or even 35 per cent. The White House declined to comment directly on the possibility of higher duties, referring only to Trump’s public statements. Reuters also noted that Trump said on Friday he had signed letters to 12 countries informing them of new tariff intentions, though he did not identify which nations would receive them.<h2>Japan’s auto industry on the line</h2>Japan’s top priority in these negotiations remains securing an exemption for its automotive sector. As per Reuters, Japanese automakers are already facing a 10 per cent tariff on most exports to the US. On top of that, Washington has threatened an industry-specific tariff of 25 per cent on imported vehicles, a move that would hit Japan’s manufacturers particularly hard.&nbsp;After nearly three months of negotiations without a breakthrough, Tokyo’s options are narrowing. Japan is one of America’s most important trading partners, and its carmakers are major employers in the US. Yet Reuters reports that Trump has so far shown little inclination to compromise, casting doubt on whether Japan can avoid higher tariffs. Prime Minister Ishiba said his government remained determined to find a solution, but acknowledged the difficulties, stressing the need to protect key national interests even as talks drag on.<h2>An uncertain outlook</h2>With the July 9 deadline fast approaching, the risk of escalation is real. As Reuters reports, Trump has questioned whether a deal is even possible and has publicly floated higher tariff rates. For Japan, failure to secure an agreement could have damaging economic consequences, especially for its automakers and exporters.&nbsp;Beyond the economic impact, the standoff also threatens to strain the broader US-Japan alliance. As the two sides edge closer to a potential trade war, Japan’s negotiators are under intense pressure to avert a damaging outcome while managing an increasingly unpredictable White House.&nbsp;(With inputs from the agencies)

With a crucial July 9 deadline nearing, Japan scrambles to secure a tariff exemption from the Trump administration amid rising tensions, aggressive US demands, and fears of economic fallout.

Japan is scrambling to head off steep new US tariffs, as last-ditch negotiations with President Donald Trump’s administration show few signs of progress. With a crucial tariff pause set to expire on July 9, Tokyo is warning of significant risks to its vital manufacturing sector if a deal cannot be reached. According to Reuters, Japan’s chief tariff negotiator Ryosei Akazawa held “in-depth exchanges” over the phone with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Thursday and Saturday. The Japanese government said in a statement that it would “continue actively coordinating with the US side” in an effort to prevent the higher tariffs from taking effect. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, speaking on Wednesday, vowed to defend Japan’s national interests, noting that Japan is the largest foreign investor in the United States. As per Reuters, Ishiba’s comments reflect Tokyo’s growing frustration with what it sees as aggressive US demands and limited willingness to compromise. Trump threatens even higher tariffs President Trump has repeatedly threatened to increase tariffs far beyond the current 24 per cent level announced in April. This week, Trump criticised Japan for what he described as its reluctance to buy US-grown rice, accusing Tokyo of maintaining unfair barriers. Yet Reuters reports that Japan has in fact imported historically high volumes of US rice in recent months, as domestic prices have surged. Despite those purchases, Trump has indicated he may bypass further negotiations altogether. According to Reuters, he suggested he could simply send Japan a letter outlining a new tariff rate of 30 or even 35 per cent. The White House declined to comment directly on the possibility of higher duties, referring only to Trump’s public statements. Reuters also noted that Trump said on Friday he had signed letters to 12 countries informing them of new tariff intentions, though he did not identify which nations would receive them. Japan’s auto industry on the line Japan’s top priority in these negotiations remains securing an exemption for its automotive sector. As per Reuters, Japanese automakers are already facing a 10 per cent tariff on most exports to the US. On top of that, Washington has threatened an industry-specific tariff of 25 per cent on imported vehicles, a move that would hit Japan’s manufacturers particularly hard. After nearly three months of negotiations without a breakthrough, Tokyo’s options are narrowing. Japan is one of America’s most important trading partners, and its carmakers are major employers in the US. Yet Reuters reports that Trump has so far shown little inclination to compromise, casting doubt on whether Japan can avoid higher tariffs. Prime Minister Ishiba said his government remained determined to find a solution, but acknowledged the difficulties, stressing the need to protect key national interests even as talks drag on. An uncertain outlook With the July 9 deadline fast approaching, the risk of escalation is real. As Reuters reports, Trump has questioned whether a deal is even possible and has publicly floated higher tariff rates. For Japan, failure to secure an agreement could have damaging economic consequences, especially for its automakers and exporters. Beyond the economic impact, the standoff also threatens to strain the broader US-Japan alliance. As the two sides edge closer to a potential trade war, Japan’s negotiators are under intense pressure to avert a damaging outcome while managing an increasingly unpredictable White House. (With inputs from the agencies)

Japan faces mounting pressure as last-ditch efforts to avert steep US tariffs risk failure, threatening its key auto sector and trade ties.

Japan confirms ‘in-depth’ talks with US as tariff deadline looms

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