Group 1 - The EU and the US are negotiating a trade agreement before the August 1 deadline to avoid a 30% punitive tariff on EU exports [1][2] - The proposed agreement may include a 15% tariff on most EU goods exported to the US, with limited exemptions for certain products [1][2] - If no agreement is reached, the EU plans to impose retaliatory tariffs on approximately €100 billion ($117 billion) worth of US goods, including Boeing aircraft and American cars [2][3] Group 2 - The EU is preparing to implement a "counter-coercion tool" to impose sanctions in various trade areas if negotiations fail [3] - Investor sentiment is cautious due to the ongoing trade tensions, with expectations that a successful agreement could lead to increased market confidence [4][5] - Recent trade agreements, such as the one between the US and Japan, have heightened expectations for a potential US-EU agreement, which could significantly impact US exports [5]

Group 1 - Japan is prepared for potential delays in trade negotiations with the U.S. and will not focus on a specific deadline for restoring tariffs [1][2] - Japanese Economic Revitalization Minister Ryosei Akazawa emphasized that Japan is engaging in sincere negotiations and is optimistic about the possibility of extending the deadline for tariff increases [1][2] - The U.S. plans to restore tariffs on multiple countries, which would raise Japan's tariffs from the current 10% to 24% [1] Group 2 - Akazawa has not scheduled the next round of negotiations with the U.S. and stated that Japan will not set specific deadlines for dialogue, likening trade discussions to "navigating in the fog" [2] - The ongoing tensions in the Middle East may divert U.S. attention, potentially hindering substantial progress in U.S.-Japan trade talks [2] - Protecting the automotive industry profits is a core demand for Japan in the negotiations, highlighting the significance of the U.S.-Japan automotive trade surplus as a key issue [3]