Japan faces challenges on multiple fronts as significant developments unfold across politics, economy, and international relations.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed concern on Friday about the U.S. imposition of reciprocal tariffs on Japanese goods. Ishiba called the move a “national crisis” that demands an “unprecedented” response. He told parliament that Japan needs to decide the most effective approach to the planned 24 percent tariff. He suggested considering retaliatory actions or taking the issue to the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Meanwhile, across the Sea of Japan, South Korea’s Constitutional Court has ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol, a decision that has brought intense reactions from both supporters and opponents. The court upheld a parliamentary motion to impeach Yoon after he declared martial law on December 3. The judges described his action as a denial of democracy. Yoon now becomes the second South Korean president to be removed through impeachment, following Park Geun-hye in 2017.
In economic news, Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda warned that President Donald Trump’s tariffs would likely “put downward pressure” on Japan’s economy. Ueda acknowledged that changes in the global environment, such as the tariffs, would likely affect economic projections and prices. His comments reflect growing concerns over the impact of the tariffs on both Japan and global markets.
Despite these challenges, Japan continues preparations for the 2025 World Expo in Osaka. A three-day test run kicked off on Friday, offering stakeholders and residents a preview of the event. The test aims to smooth operations ahead of the official opening on April 13. The event is expected to draw approximately 90,000 people during the soft opening.
On the business front, Nissan Motor Co. has decided to maintain its production levels at its U.S. plant. Initially, Nissan planned to scale back production in response to the new tariffs on car imports. However, the company reversed its decision to avoid further repercussions.
Additionally, Sharp Corp. has sold part of its factory site in Sakai, Osaka, to KDDI Corp. for $69 million. The sale will support the development of an AI data center, which will operate with cutting-edge technology from Nvidia Corp.
Japan’s police are also facing growing concerns over online child exploitation. The National Police Agency reported that 111 people were arrested in February and March during a nationwide crackdown on online child sexual exploitation. This operation marks Japan’s first participation in an international investigation involving countries such as Singapore and South Korea.
Finally, French football club Reims announced plans to play two friendly matches in Japan this summer. The matches will feature popular players such as Junya Ito and Keito Nakamura, who have ties to Japan. The games are set for July 30 and August 2 against J-League clubs Kashiwa Reysol and Gamba Osaka.
Japan faces challenges on various fronts, from international trade and political turmoil to global economic uncertainties. As the country works to navigate these difficulties, it must balance diplomacy, internal stability, and economic resilience.
