TOKYO -- Japan's tariff talks with the U.S. look poised to pick up after the July 20 upper house elections, leaving a 10-day window to negotiate before postponed "reciprocal" duties take effect Aug. 1.

Japan is likely to seek a telephone conversation between Akazawa and Bessent before the latter arrives and an in-person meeting during the U.S. official's stay, the Yomiuri reported. It may also seek a meeting between Ishiba and Bessent as well, the newspaper reported.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba called the announcement of slightly higher US tariffs “truly regrettable” while he vowed to continue to protect his nation’s interests in the extended trade negotiations.