Japan is contemplating a significant increase in its imports of U.S. corn and soybeans as part of ongoing negotiations to alleviate tariffs imposed by the United States. This move aims to offset the decline in American agricultural exports to China and to secure exemptions from U.S. tariffs on Japanese goods.
The Japanese government is considering this strategy to address the surplus of U.S. corn and soybeans resulting from reduced exports to China amid escalating trade tensions between Washington and Beijing.
By increasing its imports of these crops, Japan hopes to secure exemptions from U.S. tariffs. Corn imports are expected to serve multiple purposes in Japan, including use as animal feed and as a resource for sustainable aviation fuel. This aligns with Japan's efforts to diversify its energy sources and promote environmentally friendly alternatives.
Ryosei Akazawa, Japan’s chief representative in tariff negotiations with the Trump administration, is scheduled to visit Washington for a three-day trip starting April 30. During this visit, he will participate in a second round of talks with U.S.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who oversees negotiations with Japan. While the proposal to increase imports of U.S. soybeans and corn is likely to be welcomed by the United States, it has sparked concerns within Japan's domestic agricultural sector. Hiroshi Moriyama, secretary-general of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, acknowledged the feasibility of expanding imports due to Japan's limited capacity to produce these commodities domestically.
However, he emphasized that farm products should not be used as bargaining chips in tariff negotiations, particularly expressing caution regarding the expansion of rice imports. The United States remains Japan’s largest supplier of corn and soybeans. In 2024, Japan imported approximately 11.5 million tons of corn valued at around ¥459 billion. Corn used as livestock feed is exempt from tariffs, making it a strategic import for Japan's agricultural needs.
President Donald Trump has indicated that the United States is "very close" to a deal with Japan as the two countries continue talks over U.S. tariffs. These negotiations are being closely watched as a test case for other countries seeking relief from wide-ranging U.S. tariffs.
As discussions progress, both nations aim to reach a mutually beneficial agreement that addresses trade imbalances and supports their respective economic interests.
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