Tokyo: Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon engaged in discussions regarding free trade in light of existing tariffs imposed by the Trump administration during a phone conversation on Tuesday. Ishiba emphasized the importance of New Zealand as a key partner in promoting a free and open international order, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
According to Anadolu Agency, the conversation focused on a range of economic topics, notably the increased uncertainty in the global economy and the multilateral free trade system. The leaders agreed on the necessity of continuing dialogue and strengthening bilateral relations, with a particular emphasis on security collaboration.
In the context of trade, Japan has urged the United States to reconsider its stance on the 25% import duty on cars. Although a 24% reciprocal tariff has been temporarily suspended until June 15, the US maintains a 10% baseline tariff, alongside levies on steel and aluminum. Additionally, the Trump administration has imposed a 10% tariff on imports from New Zealand, highlighting the ongoing trade tensions between these nations.