US auto giants criticize US-Japan tariff deal as unfair
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Update time : 2025-07-25 20:43:32
The big three US automakers, General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis, have raised concerns over the new US-Japan tariff agreement, arguing it puts them at a competitive disadvantage.
Matt Blunt, head of the American Automotive Policy Council, criticized the deal for granting Japanese automakers favorable tariffs (15% on vehicles) while US manufacturers still face steep duties, 50% on steel/aluminum and 25% on some auto parts.
The agreement, set to avoid a planned 25% punitive tariff, imposes a 15% total levy (2.5% base + 12.5% additional) on Japanese car imports. In exchange, Japan will increase US agricultural imports and pledge US$550 billion in US investments.
The White House claims the deal will boost exports and jobs, but Blunt doubts US automakers will gain meaningful access to Japan’s market, where foreign brands hold just 6% share.
While Japanese automakers praised the deal for stabilizing trade, analysts warn it may undercut US automakers by favoring rivals with lower costs. The dispute shows tensions between trade policy and domestic industry competitiveness.
