The ongoing trade war between the U.S. and China is threatening America’s trade relations with Japan. The beginning of a second round of trade talks between Japan and the United States will be delayed until after fresh tariffs imposed on China by the U.S. come into force September 24th. Minnesota Cattlemen’s Association President Krist Wollum says that’s concerning for cattle producers as Japan is an important market for U.S. beef.
President Donald Trump and Japan’s Prime Minister were expected to meet during a UN General Assembly debate next week. Wollum hopes they’ll be able to sit down and discuss any possible trade problems and get those resolved.
Japanese officials are urging the Trump administration to consider rejoining the Trans Pacific Partnership. Wollum says that would make more sense than fighting a trade war or battling for bilateral deals that take a long time to complete.
Japanese officials fear a bilateral agreement could force them to open sensitive markets including agriculture to U.S. trade.
