On April 8, Japan commenced trade negotiations with the United States, focusing on tariffs, especially those affecting the automotive sector. This action was taken following the announcement by President Trump regarding tariffs, which included a 24% tariff on imports and an additional 25% tariff on vehicles.
Meanwhile, China's Ministry of Commerce declared on the same day that it would implement countermeasures if the United States moves forward with increasing tariffs on Chinese goods. The ministry conveyed that China is ready to defend its interests and considers the potential tariff increase as a coercive and misguided measure.