US calls for Japan beef concessions www3.nhk.or.jp
US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer has urged Japan to make concessions on beef imports as part of efforts to reduce the US trade deficit.
In a hearing at the Senate finance committee, Lighthizer referred to Japan as an important target for bilateral trade talks. Japan's trade surplus with the US stood at $68.9 billion dollars last year.
At a Senate confirmation hearing in March, he said Japan would be a "primary target" for more open access for US farm products.
The Trump administration is applying pressure on trade partners for greater market access, while at the same time making noise about protectionist policies.
The US says cheap imports of steel and other products are posing a threat to US security, including the defense industry.
Published Date:2017-06-22