Make Me Smart The trade-offs of Japan’s trade deal
Jul 23, 2025
Sabri Ben-Achour, a Marketplace colleague, joins Kimberly Adams to analyze President Trump’s recent trade deal with Japan, which imposes a 15% tariff on imports. The discussion dives into the potential economic benefits and challenges for future U.S. trade relations. They unpack Japan's massive investment in the U.S. and the regulatory changes impacting workplaces and migrant workers. The episode also celebrates small personal achievements and the joy of nurturing plants, showing how resilience can bloom in everyday life.
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Trade deal details and doubts
- The US-Japan trade deal sets tariffs on cars at 15%, which is better than the threatened 25-27.5%.
- Japan promises to invest $550 billion in the US, but much of it may be pre-planned spending.
Trade deal strategy questioned
- Trump administration's tactic was to threaten high tariffs then negotiate individual deals.
- Many resulting trade deals are seen as repackaging existing arrangements with limited US leverage.
Deregulation plans risk worker protections
- Trump administration proposes over 60 rule changes to deregulate workplaces, including for home health and farm workers.
- These changes could reduce required payments and safety protections for vulnerable workers.