Japan’s Trade Minister, Hiroshige Seko, Suggests Tougher Line on Any Auto Tariffs

The transcript discusses Japan's response to potential US tariffs on cars, highlighting the economic impact on both countries. Japan's collaboration with the EU to counter US protectionism is emphasized, along with Japan's leadership in multilateral trade agreements like TPP. The potential signing of the ARCEP agreement by the end of the year is also discussed, with optimism about reaching a basic agreement despite challenges.

What is the potential impact of US tariffs on Japanese cars and auto parts?

• Increase in Japanese car exports to the US

• Improvement in US-Japan trade relations

• Significant damage to both Japanese and global economies

• Minimal impact on the global economy

How are Japan and the EU addressing US protectionist trade policies?

• By increasing exports to other countries

• By setting up a meeting group to discuss trade issues

• By imposing their own tariffs on US goods

• By withdrawing from all trade agreements with the US

What role does Japan play in multilateral trade agreements?

• Japan is a passive participant

• Japan focuses only on bilateral agreements

• Japan leads and promotes free trade agreements

• Japan opposes all multilateral trade agreements

What is the significance of the TPP 11 deal for Japan?

• It is a key agreement showcasing Japan's leadership in free trade

• It is a bilateral agreement with the US

• It is a minor trade agreement with little impact

• It is an agreement that Japan has withdrawn from

What is the expected outcome of the ARCEP agreement by the end of the year?

• It will be signed only by Japan and China

• It is expected to be abandoned

• A basic agreement is likely to be reached

• It will be postponed indefinitely