Japanese automakers gained some relief after Trump announced a drop in U.S. import tariffs from 25% to 15% on Japan-made vehicles. But analysts say the move offers little comfort as the industry grapples with long-term structural problems and China’s aggressive rise. Moody’s Analytics said a 15% rate is still unexpectedly high, and China now threatens Japanese market share in key regions, including Southeast Asia and Australia. PwC data shows Japan’s ASEAN-6 market share slid to 63.9% in 2024. Domestic hurdles, such as inflation, weak demand, and downsizing at Nissan, add pressure. Experts agree the finalized tariff at least gives Japanese automakers a clearer picture of future costs.
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00:02Japanese automakers gained some relief after Trump downed the drop in U.S. import tariffs from 25% to 50% on Japan-made vehicles.
00:10The analysts say the move offers little comfort as the industry grapples with long-term structural problems and China's aggressive rise.
00:16Moody's analytics said a 50% rate is still unexpectedly high, and China now threatens Japanese market share in key regions, including Southeast Asia and Australia.
00:25PwC data shows Japan's ACN6 market share slid to 63.9% in 2024.
00:31Domestic hurdles such as inflation, weak demand, and downsizing at Nissan add pressure.
00:36Experts agree the finalized tariff at least gives Japanese automakers a clearer picture of future costs.
