In the midst of ongoing trade talks, US President Donald Trump had blamed Japan for not purchasing American rice, threatening tariffs unless Tokyo imports more. According to trade data released by the US Census Bureau, though, Trump’s accusation was contrary to facts as Japan bought $298 million worth of US rice in the last year and $114 million in January through April 2025.
In a Monday post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “They won’t take our RICE and yet they have a massive rice shortage,” suggesting retaliatory trade action. His remark comes as negotiators seek to finalize an accord before July 9, when a temporary suspension of tit-for-tat tariffs is set to expire, leaving Japanese exports subject to a nominal 10% tariff, from the previous 24%.
Japan’s Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi refused to discuss details of the trade talks but reaffirmed Japan’s devotion to “honest and sincere” negotiations. Economy Minister Ryosei Akazawa reaffirmed Japan’s strong stance in defending its agricultural industry, particularly rice cultivation, which has a lot of political influence in rural regions that are poor but loyal to the Liberal Democratic Party.
Aside from US pressure, Japan has been resistant to offering concessions in agriculture. Trump has also threatened Japan’s auto exports, issuing a threat of a potential 25% tariff. The director of the White House’s National Economic Council, Kevin Hassett, indicated negotiations were still under way and might extend beyond a framework agreement.
Following domestic pressure, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba unveiled a new policy on Tuesday to aid rice production, in an effort to gain stable supply and farmer revenue. Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated the reforms would reassure farmers who are willing to expand rice paddy production in the face of trade uncertainties.
The discussions represent wider tensions in US-Japan trade, where agriculture and autos are key hotspots.