Japan’s inflation rate has risen to 3.2% in March, driven by higher rice prices. The country’s core consumer price index, which excludes volatile fresh food, accelerated from 3.0% in February.
Meanwhile, the new US Ambassador to Japan, George Glass, has vowed to work with Japan to counter China’s assertiveness and ensure the bilateral alliance remains a “force of peace.” Glass also expressed optimism about reaching a deal between the United States and Japan on US-imposed tariffs.
The Japanese government has tweaked its economic assessment, warning that higher US tariffs imposed by President Trump may blur the outlook for growth. The Cabinet Office also voiced vigilance over consumer spending, which may be affected by sharp price hikes.
Defense Minister Gen Nakatani said security matters with the United States are “separate issues” from US tariffs. However, he has no plans to visit the United States for tariff talks.
Separate from US tariffs, construction work will suspend services on Tokyo’s Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku lines this weekend. Climbers of Mt. Fuji will also be required to wear proper clothing when visiting the mountain’s most popular trail.
Japan is exploring talks with the United States on foreign exchange issues during a planned visit next week. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has announced that Myanmar’s junta and parallel government have agreed to extend a cease-fire to support relief activities following the March 28 earthquake.
Source: https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2025/04/83fd53b483c4-kyodo-news-digest-april-18-2025.html