Trump Threatens Japan with Higher Tariffs Over Rice Trade Dispute

President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Japan, threatening to raise tariffs on Japanese imports to the United States, citing Japan’s refusal to buy American-grown rice.In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed, “They won’t take our RICE, and yet they have a massive rice shortage. We’ll be sending them a letter, and we’ve enjoyed having them as a trading partner for many years.”However, data from the US Census Bureau contradicts Trump’s assertion. Japan purchased $298 million worth of American rice last year, with $114 million imported from January to April this year alone.It remains unclear if Japanese officials currently involved in trade talks have indicated any intention to stop buying US rice. Representatives from Japan’s embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment.A 2021 report by the Office of the United States Trade Representative, issued during the Biden administration, highlighted Japan’s complex and opaque rice import system, which restricts US exporters’ access to the Japanese market. A source familiar with Trump’s perspective told CNN this was likely the issue behind his recent comments.Trump has also mentioned plans to notify some foreign countries about potential new tariff rates, following a pause earlier this year on his so-called “reciprocal” tariffs. Japan was specifically named as a candidate to receive such a letter.In a Fox News interview aired Sunday, Trump said, “Dear Mr. Japan, here’s the story: You’re going to pay a 25% tariff on your cars.”The president’s post comes just days before the July 9 deadline when the 90-day suspension of reciprocal tariffs is set to expire. It is still uncertain how tariff rates on many countries will be affected.Prior to the suspension, Japanese exports faced a minimum tariff of 24%. Since the pause, they have been charged a universal 10% rate.White House National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett said Monday that discussions with Japan are still underway.“Nothing is over,” Hassett told reporters. “I know what the president posted, but talks will continue until the last moment. Even if we reach a framework agreement, there will still be details to finalize.”