Former President Donald Trump took aim at Japan in a recent speech, calling the country "spoiled" for its restrictions on U.S. rice imports. He hinted that he might scrap ongoing trade talks if elected again, framing it as a move to protect American farmers. The comments add to his long history of tough trade rhetoric, particularly targeting allies.

Editor’s Note: Trade tensions between the U.S. and Japan aren’t new, but Trump’s remarks signal a potential return to his aggressive, America-first trade policies if he wins the election. For Japan, this could mean renewed pressure to open its markets—especially in agriculture—while U.S. farmers might see it as a win. The bigger question is whether this kind of rhetoric risks straining a key alliance in Asia, where Japan is a crucial partner in countering China.