Japan’s automakers association (JAMA) on Friday criticized moves by the United States to explore raising tariffs on Japanese auto exports, just as the two countries plan trade talks in July that may increase pressure on Tokyo to open up its markets. Washington last month launched a national security investigation into…
Japan’s automakers association (JAMA) on Friday criticized moves by the United States to explore raising tariffs on Japanese auto exports, just as the two countries plan trade talks in July that may increase pressure on Tokyo to open up its markets.
Washington last month launched a national security investigation into car and truck imports which could lead to new tariffs on one of Japan’s major export products to the United States.
New tariffs on auto imports could raise costs for Japanese automakers doing business in the United States, the world’s No. 2 auto market. The probe follows a U. S. decision to slap new tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Japan and other countries earlier this year.
“The investigation launched by the United States Department of Commerce to determine the effects on national security of imports of automobiles… will create uncertainty among automobile users in the U. S. and people involved in the motor vehicle industry,” Akio Toyoda, chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association and president of Toyota Motor Corp said in a statement.
He said that if restrictions were implemented, they would raise vehicle prices and reduce available options, penalizing consumers.
