Kuala lumpur: Japan on Thursday reiterated its call for a "free, fair and open" international economic order in response to US President Donald Trump's announcement of a 25% tariff imposition on Japanese imports.

According to Anadolu Agency, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, speaking during discussions with representatives from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Kuala Lumpur, emphasized Japan's interest in strengthening cooperation with the ASEAN bloc. Highlighting the group's pivotal role in global economic growth, Iwaya noted its increasing importance for regional stability and prosperity.

In light of the proposed tariffs by President Trump, Minister Iwaya stressed the necessity of maintaining and reinforcing the multilateral trading system, with the World Trade Organization (WTO) as its foundation. This stance underscores Japan's commitment to a collaborative global trading environment amidst rising protectionist policies.

The US administration announced on Monday that it will implement a 25% tariff on imports from Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia, set to take effect on August 1.