Tokyo stocks closed lower Friday as investors grew increasingly concerned about the U.S. fresh tariffs in a further move towards protectionism that could trigger retaliatory measures.

The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average lost 176.21 points, or 0.78 percent, from Thursday to close the day at 22,516.83.

The broader Topix index of all First Section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, meanwhile, dropped 5.80 points, or 0.33 percent, to finish at 1,744.83.

Transportation equipment, pulp and paper, and insurance-oriented issues comprised those that declined the most by the close of play.