Japan has recorded a trade deficit of 2.76 trillion yen, or $18 billion, in January, as worries continue to grow about impending tariffs from the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump

Japan’s longstanding trade surplus with the U.S. continues to risk the ire of Trump, who favors using levies to close trade gaps with other nations. Japan’s trade surplus with the U.S. was ¥477 billion in January. Auto exports to the U.S. surged 21.8% in the month.

It's not clear if Japan is also seeking an exemption from the auto tariffs as Trade Minister Yoji Muto didn't respond directly on Tuesday when asked about it