FT News Briefing Japan and the US talk tariffs
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Apr 18, 2025 Trade tensions escalate as China halts U.S. liquefied natural gas imports, complicating international energy relations. Japan grapples with tariff negotiations and seeks clarity amidst U.S. political maneuvers. Meanwhile, astronomers present groundbreaking evidence of potential life on exoplanet K2 18b, revealing its oceanic features and organic molecules. The quest for extraterrestrial life intensifies as researchers draw parallels to Earth's history, sparking optimism for discoveries in the near future.
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China Halts U.S. LNG Imports
- China's imports of U.S. liquefied natural gas have completely halted for over 10 weeks due to trade tensions and tariffs.
- This freeze questions the viability of multi-billion-dollar gas facility expansions in the U.S. and Mexico.
Japan Faces Tough U.S. Tariff Talks
- Japan is the first major country to negotiate tariffs with the Trump administration, facing steep reciprocal tariffs.
- Japan's position is complex due to deep economic ties and security dependence on the U.S.
Japan's Delicate Trade-Offs
- Japan's public favors countermeasures, but government fears destabilizing global order.
- The close U.S. security alliance makes Japan cautious about making large concessions despite public pressure.