Japan’s finance minister, Katsunobu Kato, has acknowledged the country’s $1.13 trillion in US Treasuries as a potential leverage point in trade discussions with the Trump administration, marking a rare assertive stance from Japan. While Kato clarified that there are no plans to sell these holdings, he emphasized the need to consider all options in light of the economic challenges posed by Trump’s trade policies. As negotiations intensify, Kato’s comments reflect Japan’s growing confidence in addressing its trade surplus with the US and its strategic position in the global financial landscape.