Japan is reassessing its alliance with the US as former President Donald Trump’s policies introduce new trade tariffs and security demands. The shifting dynamics have led Japan to strengthen ties with other nations, including China, while maintaining its strategic partnership with the US.
Japan is reevaluating its diplomatic and economic relationship with the United States as policy shifts under former President Donald Trump introduce trade barriers and new security demands. This reassessment comes amid growing concerns over US reliability in global alliances, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
Trade Disputes and Policy Shift
The trade relationship between the two nations has become increasingly contentious. In February 2025, the US announced a 25% tariff on Japanese steel imports, triggering concerns about growing protectionism. Additionally, scrutiny over major Japanese investments in the US, such as the $14.9 billion Nippon Steel deal, has added further uncertainty to the economic relationship. Despite the opposition, Japanese corporations remain committed to their US investments, signaling resilience in bilateral trade.
Security Concerns and Diplomatic Uncertainty
Beyond trade disputes, Trump’s comments questioning Japan’s role as a trusted ally have raised alarms. Calls from Trump’s nominee for Undersecretary of Defense, Elbridge Colby, urging Japan to increase its defense spending to 3% of GDP, have further fueled tensions. In response, Japan’s Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru firmly stated that the country determines its own defense budget without external pressure.
Japan also fears that shifting US priorities—such as a reduced focus on global security commitments—may embolden rival powers like China and Russia. Trump’s perceived indifference toward Ukraine’s defense has reinforced concerns about Washington’s long-term commitment to Indo-Pacific security.
Japan’s Changing Diplomatic Strategy
As a result of these tensions, Japan has begun strengthening ties with other nations, including China. In a significant diplomatic move, Japan recently participated in the China-Japan Ruling Party Exchange Mechanism for the first time in six years. Prime Minister Ishiba has also indicated a willingness to visit China, marking a notable shift in diplomatic engagement.
Despite these developments, the US remains Japan’s most crucial ally. According to a recent survey by Japan’s Foreign Ministry, 52.1% of Japanese citizens still view economic cooperation with the US as essential. The Japanese Trade Minister’s visit to the US in March highlights Tokyo’s continued interest in resolving trade disputes through diplomacy.
Future of US-Japan Relations
While Japan is adapting to the shifting geopolitical landscape, it remains committed to upholding a rules-based international order. The country is working closely with European and Indo-Pacific partners to support free trade and regional security.
For now, Japan seeks to balance its growing diplomatic engagements while maintaining its strategic alliance with the US. However, the ongoing trade and security disputes could redefine Japan’s foreign policy direction in the long term.
