Japan to make strong push for exemption from US auto tariffs

1/4/2025 12:51

Japan will keep up a strong push for the United States to exempt it from auto tariffs, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said on Tuesday, while vowing to take the necessary steps to cushion the blow to the economy and jobs.



The export-reliant economy could take a severe hit from a planned tariff of 25% on automobile imports unveiled last week by U.S. President Donald Trump, who also promised to announce on Wednesday reciprocal tariffs targeting every nation.



Measures such as offers of funding support to cash-strapped firms are among those the government could take to protect the economy from the higher tariffs, Ishiba told a news conference.



"The government will negotiate with the ruling coalition at an early date specific measures we can take to respond," Ishiba said, in case Japan is slapped with higher levies.



Government agencies are negotiating with U.S. counterparts to secure more details on Washington's tariff plans, he said, adding that he "would not hesitate" to visit the United States again to voice a direct call for exemptions.