美日局势有变？日本选择直接“硬刚”美国，特朗普威胁也没用

Core Viewpoint - The recent trade tensions between the United States and Japan have been highlighted, particularly regarding Japan's refusal to import U.S. rice despite a domestic shortage, indicating a shift in Japan's stance towards the U.S. [1][3] Group 1: Trade Relations - Trump has adopted a protectionist approach, focusing on tariffs and pressuring trade partners, including Japan, particularly in the automotive and rice sectors [3] - Japan's rice imports from the U.S. are projected to be only $330 million in 2024, a negligible amount compared to the overall trade volume between the two countries [3] - Japanese Prime Minister Kishida emphasized that Japan will not compromise its agricultural interests in trade negotiations with the U.S. [3][5] Group 2: Agricultural Significance - Agriculture, while a small part of Japan's GDP, holds strategic importance due to its role in employment and political influence, particularly among rural voters [5] - Japan's low food self-sufficiency rate makes it vulnerable to global supply disruptions, prompting the government to heavily subsidize domestic agriculture [5] Group 3: Diplomatic Dynamics - Recent improvements in Sino-Japanese relations provide Japan with leverage in negotiations with the U.S., as evidenced by the 20 agreements reached during Foreign Minister Wang Yi's visit to Japan [5] - Japan is actively seeking to diversify its economic partnerships beyond the U.S., reducing reliance on American markets and mitigating the impact of U.S. trade policies [7] - Japan's firm stance in trade negotiations signals a potential shift towards a more independent and multifaceted foreign policy [7]