Trade minister Takeo Hiranuma on Thursday voiced concern over collateral effects this week's horrific terrorist attacks will have on the 24.7 billion yen in goods Japan and the U.S. trade each day.
"I'm concerned that a halt of goods distribution could affect Japan-U.S. trade and (the supply of) energy," he told an emergency news conference convened upon his return from Hanoi. "We will watch developments closely and take action so that the adverse effects will not be felt for long.
"A prolonged halt of goods distribution would deal a blow to both countries."