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Asian markets showed mixed performance as Chinese stocks and tech shares fell amid concerns over potential U.S. tariff moves, while other markets in Tokyo and Taiwan experienced slight gains. In the United States, major indices posted modest gains despite ongoing worries about a looming trade war and its potential impact on economic growth and inflation.

The Japanese government is considering introducing human challenge trials, where healthy volunteers are deliberately infected with viruses, to improve vaccine and drug development. This move aims to address the country's lag in developing its own COVID-19 vaccines and drugs, while aligning with international standards.

The text reports that gift certificates worth 100,000 yen were distributed to parliamentary secretaries at social gatherings held at the official residences of current and former prime ministers, suggesting a potential longstanding practice within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party. It details instances from Prime Minister Kishida’s and Ishiba’s administrations, while also highlighting responses and comparisons from other former prime ministers.

Nissan and Renault are restructuring their partnership, reducing their mutual stake from 15% to 10% and allowing each other to be preferred buyers for the sold shares. This move comes as Nissan cancels its planned investment in Renault's electric vehicle subsidiary Ampere and focuses on rebuilding its own operations.

Japan's auto industry is bracing for potential U.S. tariffs on imported vehicles, emphasizing their significant contributions to the U.S. economy and the importance of the U.S. market. Despite the potential challenges, automakers appear prepared, with exports surging in anticipation of the proposed tariffs.