Japanese exports to the US slow due to tariffs

Japan’s exports to the US, its largest single trading partner, fell by nearly 2% in April, impacted by the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, the effects of which are beginning to be felt.

Globally, Japanese exports rose by only 2% year-on-year, compared to a 4% increase in March, resulting in a trade deficit for the first time in three months.

Imports from the US fell by more than 11% in April, while overall imports fell by 2.2%.

This weak export performance threatens to undermine economic growth, after the Japanese economy contracted by 0.7% in the last quarter.

The Japanese government continues to demand that the US administration lift the tariffs imposed on Japanese imports, but Washington has not yet responded.