Japan steps up lobbying in Washington, hedging for Trump's return

WASHINGTON -- The Japanese government is bolstering lobbying efforts in the U.S., signing up new firms and casting a wider net of advisers to navigate the political landscape, with an eye on the possible return of the unpredictable Donald Trump to the White House.

The Japanese Embassy in Washington added three lobbying or advisory firms to its roster last year, according to information disclosed under the Foreign Agents Registration Act.