Optimism rose today regarding the potential resolution of the trade conflict between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping as the US president arrived in Tokyo during his Asian tour. Trump expressed hope for a deal with Xi on Thursday and mentioned his willingness to extend his trip to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
During his flight to Japan, Trump told reporters that he respected President Xi and anticipated reaching a deal, with plans to visit China in early 2026. This positive outlook led to an increase in stock markets, with Japan’s Nikkei index surpassing 50,000 points for the first time.
Upon landing at Haneda Airport, Trump, accompanied by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, was greeted by onlookers as he boarded a helicopter to the Japanese capital for an audience with the emperor.
Trump praised the emperor as “a great man” following the meeting. He was scheduled to meet with Japan’s new conservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and deliver a speech on the USS George Washington aircraft carrier in Yokosuka.
The primary focus of Trump’s Asia trip, his first since assuming office, has been to secure a trade deal with China. Ahead of his meeting with Xi in South Korea, discussions were held to prevent additional tariffs set to take effect on November 1. Both sides indicated progress with China’s vice commerce minister stating a “preliminary consensus” had been reached.
During his visit to Malaysia, Trump underscored the importance of a potential agreement with China, emphasizing the mutual benefits it could bring. The US also seeks increased defense spending from Japan, aligning with NATO’s guidelines.
While Japan faces pressure to import more US goods, particularly agricultural products and vehicles like Ford F-150 trucks, doubts linger over Japan’s commitment to investing $550 billion in the US as outlined in a previous trade agreement.
As Trump prepares for the APEC summit in South Korea, speculation surrounds the possibility of a meeting with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Trump expressed openness to such a meeting, reflecting on their previous interactions and indicating a willingness to extend his trip if needed.