The US is asking Japan to triple its contribution for American bases to more than 3 trillion yen over five years

The United States has asked Japan to triple its financial contribution toward maintaining US forces stationed in the Japanese archipelago, to more than 3 trillion yen, equivalent to approximately $19 billion, over the next five years beginning in fiscal 2027. The information was reported Thursday by Kyodo news agency, citing sources familiar with the negotiations.

Tokyo is considering a compromise proposal of approximately 1.5 trillion yen for the same period. A diplomatic source said the amount requested by Washington would be difficult to accept, but that Japan might be willing to pay around half.

Bilateral negotiations on cost-sharing have intensified since the summer, and the next round of talks could take place next week. Both governments aim to reach an agreement by the end of the year.

During fiscal years 2022-2026, Japan contributed approximately 1.06 trillion yen, or 211 billion yen annually. The new funding could include measures to protect the bases in the event of attacks, such as moving certain functions underground and reinforcing buildings against explosions or electromagnetic attacks. Donald Trump applied similar pressure during his first term.