WASHINGTON — American businesses have flagged Japanese digital regulations and other nontariff barriers as key hurdles to trade as U.S. President Donald Trump prepares to announce reciprocal tariffs on imports April 2.
In addition to the target countries’ tariffs, the Trump administration is expected to consider nontariff barriers, tax rates and other policies when determining reciprocal tariff rates. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative had invited public comment on “unfair” foreign trade practices until March 11.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan, in its comment, cited “persistent barriers” faced by U.S. companies in the Asian country.
Japan’s auto safety standards restrict “market access for American automakers,” the ACCJ said. The chamber also objected to Japanese policies on biopharmaceuticals pricing, security requirements for cloud service providers, and advertising restrictions in cosmetics.
In transportation and logistics, Japanese customs procedures favor Japan Post over private carriers, the chamber said.
Restrictions on Big Tech were also flagged by the ACCJ. “The recently passed Smartphone Software Competition Promotion Act unfairly targets U.S. technology companies while excluding domestic and Chinese competitors,” it said, referring to new legislation to keep the likes of Apple and Google from monopolizing app distribution and payments.
In addition to reciprocal tariffs, the Trump administration plans sector-specific tariffs to promote American industries. The tariff for imported automobiles is expected to be around 25%.
Peter Navarro, the White House senior counselor for trade and manufacturing, has signaled the possibility of imposing one tariff rate for each country. Both Trump and U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick have said there will be no exceptions to the sectoral or reciprocal tariffs.
Some in the U.S. business community have criticized the idea, saying reciprocal tariffs will not lead to increased American exports of goods and services.
There is also concern in Japan that the USTR could pressure Japan to delay the new smartphone software law’s implementation, now planned for year-end, based on the ACCJ’s comment.