US-Japan Trade Deal Stalls Over Profit-Sharing Dispute

The United States and Japan remain locked in negotiations over how to divide profits from their newly signed $550 billion trade and investment package. While both nations have agreed on the economic framework, a significant rift has emerged regarding revenue allocation.

Japan maintains that returns should reflect each country's proportional contributions and risk exposure. "Some people are saying Japan is simply handing over $550 billion, but such claims are completely off the mark," stated Ryosei Akazawa, Japan's lead trade negotiator. The US position demands 90% of gains, citing its larger economic role in the deal.

The agreement, announced last Tuesday by President Trump, includes a 15% tariff on imported goods and substantial Japanese investment commitments. However, with neither side willing to concede on profit-sharing terms, the implementation timeline remains uncertain.