Japan cannot accept the United States' proposed 25% tariff on imported automobiles. He emphasized that Japanese automakers produce far more vehicles in the U.S. than they export there.
seventh round of Japan-U.S. trade talksmanufacture approximately 3.3 million vehicles annually in the United States1.37 million vehicles exported to the U.S.Japanese automotive companies have invested over $60 billion in the U.S. and created 2.3 million jobs locally.
"We have repeatedly explained to the U.S. that Japan's auto industry contributes significantly to the U.S. economy," Akazawa said. "We will continue to make this point clear and seek the U.S.'s understanding. From any perspective, imposing a 25% tariff on Japanese vehicles is unacceptable."
. The U.S. aims to reduce its trade deficit with Japan in the automotive sector, while Japan is determined to protect its critical auto industry. Despite six previous rounds of negotiations over more than two months, has been achieved on the tariff issue.
3.3 million vehicles produced in the U.S.300,000 are exported from the U.S. to other countriesa trade surplus for the U.S. as well.
Japan's trade surplus with the U.S. reached 8.6 trillion yen (approx. $59.4 billion) last year, the fifth-largest in history. Roughly 82% of this surplus came from automobiles and auto parts" approach and aims to cut the U.S. trade deficit by raising import tariffs.
G7 Summit. Like many other countries, from the U.S.-comprehensive reciprocal tariffs and industry-specific duties. If negotiations fail, broad tariffs are set to rise from 10% to 24% on July 9a 25% duty on automobiles and auto partsa 50% tariff on steel and aluminum.
, including sectoral issues. Akazawa stated he is mindful of the July 9 deadline.
U.S. tariff policy has already begun to impact the Japanese economy, with sharp declines in exports to the U.S., particularly in the automotive sector. As Japan heads into its Upper House elections on July 20.
