搞不动中国，美与日本谈判，石破茂态度突变，给了美“当头一棒”

Core Viewpoint - Japan is leveraging a cooperation proposal related to China in exchange for concessions on tariffs during the ongoing US-Japan trade negotiations, which have been stalled since the implementation of strict tariff policies by the Trump administration [1][3]. Group 1: Trade Negotiations - Japan's chief trade negotiator, Akizawa Ryo, is participating in the fifth round of tariff negotiations with the US, aiming to address the approximately $60 billion trade deficit between the two countries [1]. - The US has maintained a hardline stance on tariffs, particularly in the automotive and steel sectors, insisting on measures to eliminate the trade deficit [1][3]. - Japan's willingness to compromise has shifted due to changing international circumstances, indicating a more assertive negotiation strategy [1][3]. Group 2: Cooperation Proposals - Japan's cooperation proposal includes leveraging its advantages in rare earth processing and recycling to assist the US in utilizing globally sourced rare earth materials, as well as exploring collaboration in graphite and gallium [1]. - In the semiconductor sector, Japan plans to purchase billions of dollars' worth of semiconductor products from US companies like Nvidia and is considering assistance in producing materials needed for chip manufacturing [1][3]. Group 3: Energy and Shipbuilding - Japan is considering increasing imports of US liquefied natural gas and has proposed support for new projects in Alaska and increased production in Louisiana and Texas [3]. - In shipbuilding, Japan aims to collaborate with the US to build icebreakers, taking into account the influence of China [3]. Group 4: Internal US Dynamics - The US negotiation team is experiencing significant internal divisions, with differing views among key officials, complicating the negotiation process for Japan [3]. - The lack of coordination and information sharing among US officials has led to repeated discussions and delays in the negotiation process [3]. Group 5: Japan's Strategic Position - Japan holds significant leverage with its holdings of US Treasury bonds, and any large-scale sell-off could exert substantial pressure on the US economy [5]. - The dynamics of US-China relations have provided Japan with insights and confidence to adopt a firmer negotiating stance [5]. Group 6: International Implications - The outcome of the US-Japan trade negotiations will not only impact bilateral economic relations but also have broader implications for regional and global economic structures [5][7]. - Japan's strategy must consider the potential backlash from China if its cooperation proposals adversely affect Chinese interests, highlighting the risks involved in the negotiations [5][7].