Press Conference by Minister Muto (Excerpt)

*Note: This is a provisional translation for reference purposes only.

9:32 to 9:45 a.m.
Tuesday, April 8, 2025
Press Conference Room, METI Main Building

Opening Remarks

None

Question-and-Answer Session

Actions to address U.S. tariff measures

Q: Prime Minister Ishiba talked with U.S. President Trump over the phone yesterday, and subsequently, you had an inter-ministerial meeting this morning. What is your view on the results?

A: I acknowledge that yesterday, in the telephone talk with U.S. President Trump, Prime Minister Ishiba expressed concerns that the tariff measures by the U.S. could weaken investment capacity among Japanese companies, conveyed his view that the two countries should pursue ways to promote broader cooperation that benefits both Japan and the United States in a mutual manner, including enhancement of investment, rather than imposing tariffs, and urged a reconsideration of the measures.

I also understood that the two leaders confirmed that they would continue to have candid and constructive discussions.

Based on the results of this summit talk, I would like to work for closer communication between the two countries and strongly urge the United States to reconsider its tariff measures.

In the meeting of the Comprehensive Response Headquarters for U.S. Tariff Measures held at the Prime Minister’s Office this morning, we discussed related measures including those to be implemented in Japan. Based on the discussion results, we will speed up the assessment of the impact of U.S. tariff measures on our industries and regions and the examination of the actions to be taken against the impact, in addition to fostering short-term support measures. We are committed to implementing all necessary support measures to protect Japanese industries and jobs.

At any rate, all related ministers will cooperate and collaborate and make a concerted effort as the Government.

Nippon Steel’s plan to acquire U.S. Steel

Q: Please let me ask you about Nippon Steel’s plan to acquire U.S. Steel. In the United States, on April 7 (local time), President Trump ordered the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to conduct a new review of the plan. What do you think of the review and expect from it?

A: Regarding Nippon Steel’s plan to acquire U.S. Steel, we are aware that a presidential memorandum was issued within the US government to order the CFIUS to conduct a new review.  But since it is an issue concerning the business of an individual company, I will refrain from making any comments on it.

At any rate, the investment plan will be examined and adjusted by the related parties, and the Government of Japan will help foster communication between the parties as necessary.

Actions to address the U.S. tariff measures

Q: I would like to ask you about the tariffs. In the Japan-U.S. summit telephone talk held yesterday, the two leaders agreed to appoint ministers in charge of negotiations on tariffs. Could you tell us about the selection criteria that need to be considered for the appointment of the minister as well as about the possibility that you will be appointed to the position?

A: In line with what the leaders have talked about, the two countries will appoint ministers in charge and continue bilateral discussions. Accordingly, Japan will select the person to serve as the minister, but no candidates have been named so far. I will refrain from making any more comments on this issue, but I regard it as my mission to further develop bilateral economic relations in a win-win manner. In order to fulfill this mission, I will continue to make efforts steadily.