Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba may travel to the United States before mid-June to hold a Japan-U.S. summit with President Donald Trump. The plan comes as bilateral trade talks show signs of real progress, according to government sources in Tokyo.
The summit could happen just before the G7 summit in Canada, scheduled for June 15. Officials say a separate meeting would allow both leaders to focus entirely on trade issues.
On Friday, Japan and the United States held a key ministerial session in Washington. Economic revitalization minister Ryosei Akazawa met U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick for over two hours. During the meeting, Akazawa highlighted Japan’s proposals and urged the U.S. to end its tariff hikes on steel, aluminum, and automobiles.
Afterward, Akazawa spoke to the press. He said the negotiations had moved forward and that both sides confirmed progress. U.S. officials reportedly welcomed Japan’s ideas and asked for further development.
Previously, Japan made three main proposals. First, Tokyo offered to increase imports of American agricultural goods. Second, Japan promised to ease non-tariff barriers on U.S. car exports. Third, it encouraged Japanese companies to boost investments in U.S. factories and infrastructure.
Now, Akazawa will return to the U.S. in early June to continue talks. If momentum continues, the Japan-U.S. summit may be finalized for just before the G7. Although leaders could meet during the summit, Japanese officials prefer an earlier meeting in the U.S.
Some officials hope to announce a deal on June 14, President Trump’s birthday. They believe this could add symbolic value and political impact. However, the final decision depends on how talks unfold in the coming days.
The Japan-U.S. summit would focus strictly on trade and economic cooperation. Leaders aim to find common ground on tariffs, industry investment, and long-term market access. As pressure builds on both sides, a successful meeting could signal a turning point in bilateral economic relations.
Government leaders in both countries remain optimistic as the clock ticks toward the G7.
