The industry minister said that the region depends on imports for more than 80% of its energy compounding the damage caused by the conflict between U.S.-Israeli forces and Iran.

Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Akazawa, has urged the US not to disadvantage Japan with new 10% tariffs and to exclude Japan from a potential 15% increase, citing a previous US-Japan agreement.

South Korea and Japan agreed Saturday to establish a regular communication channel between their industry ministries to better manage various trade, economic security and supply chain issues, Seoul's industry ministry said. The agreement was made at a meeting between South Korean Industry Minister Kim Jung-kwan and his Japanese counterpart, Ryosei Akazawa, held on the sidelines of the inaugural Indo-Pacific energy security ministerial meeting in Tokyo, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industr

Akazawa to Visit US as Japan Aims to Keep Trade Deal Intact  Bloomberg

Japan's Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Akazawa has requested the US Commerce Secretary that Japan not be disadvantaged by new tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, compared to a previous bilateral agreement.

The Japanese government has informed the ruling party that a Japan-US summit meeting between Prime Minister Takaichi and President Trump is being arranged for March 19. Foreign Minister Motegi and Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Akazawa are expected to accompany the Prime Minister.

A Japanese official is traveling to the U.S. to discuss additional projects as part of a $550 billion pledge, with three projects already agreed upon and more expected soon.