Japan is reportedly looking into revisiting its car safety standards as it seeks a trade deal with U.S. President Donald Trump. U.S. automakers have long complained about non-tariff barriers that hinder their access to the Japanese market, including strict safety standards.
A report issued by the U.S. Trade Representative last month stated that Japan does not accept U.S. safety standard certification, arguing that U.S. standards cannot provide the same level of protection as Japan’s own standards, and there are unique testing procedures and obstacles in establishing distribution and service networks.
According to reports, the government led by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba believes that there is room to relax some of its own safety standards, such as regulations on crash safety tests.
"We must recognize the differences in traffic conditions," Ishiba said on Sunday.
Reports on Sunday said Japan was also considering increasing rice imports as part of its negotiating strategy.
Japanese trade negotiator wearing a "MAGA" hat gives a thumbs up
Japan’s trade negotiator and Minister of Economic Revitalization Ryomasa Akasawa went to the United States on the 16th to negotiate with the United States on tariff issues.
According to reports, Akasawa received a red "MAGA" (Make America Great Again) hat signed by Trump after the negotiation, and Akasawa gave Trump a gold piggy bank in the shape of the Osaka Expo mascot "Maimai".
Subsequently, the U.S. government released a photo of Akasawa wearing a "MAGA" hat. In the photo, you can also see a golden piggy bank in the shape of "Mai Mai" on the table.