Godsent Ogbebor
Japan Raises Concerns Over U.S. Auto Tariffs
Japan has raised concerns over the potential economic impact of the United States’ decision to impose a 25 percent tariff on imported cars, warning on Thursday that the move could strain trade relations and disrupt global markets.
The tariff, announced by President Donald Trump on Wednesday, is set to take effect on April 3 and will apply to all vehicles not manufactured in the U.S.
Japanese officials have expressed disappointment, calling for an exemption for their automakers, which account for a significant share of U.S. car imports.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, who met with Trump at the White House last month, said Japan was reviewing an appropriate response.
He emphasized that Japan is one of the largest investors in the U.S. and that the auto industry plays a critical role in both economies.
Government spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi described the tariff as “extremely regrettable” and said Tokyo had urged Washington to reconsider. He warned that the measure could have far-reaching consequences for global trade.
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South Korea has also responded, with Trade Minister Ahn Duk-geun holding an emergency meeting with major automakers. The government is working on countermeasures and plans to announce a response strategy in April.
The tariff announcement rattled Asian financial markets, causing shares of major automakers to drop. Toyota closed down 2 percent, Nissan fell 1.7 percent, Honda lost 2.5 percent, and Hyundai dropped 4 percent in South Korea.
While the Trump administration argues that the tariffs will strengthen American manufacturing, critics warn they could lead to higher car prices for U.S. consumers and damage long-standing trade partnerships.
Japan and South Korea remain hopeful for negotiations but are preparing for possible economic disruptions.
