Trump doubts Japan trade deal, calls negotiators 'very tough'

Anadolu Agency

U.S. President Donald Trump signalled scepticism about reaching a trade agreement with Japan, saying on Tuesday (1 July) that he doubted a deal would be finalised, describing Japanese negotiators as "very tough" despite ongoing talks.

U.S. President Donald Trump expressed scepticism about the prospects of reaching a new trade agreement with Japan. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One as he returned from Florida on Tuesday, he said he was uncertain that a deal would be finalised.

Trump described the Japanese side as “very tough” and noted that despite their “desperate” need for rice, they had refused to accept U.S. products.

The president also stated that he had no plans to extend the 9 July deadline set for trade agreements.

Furthermore, Trump issued sharp criticism of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, accusing him of hindering economic growth and calling him a “moron”.

He indicated that he is preparing to remove Powell from office and has “two or three top candidates” lined up as potential replacements.

Trump has repeatedly called for interest rates to be cut, citing examples set by European central banks, and warned that delays could harm the U.S. economy.

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