Trump auto tariffs seen dealing blow to Mazda and Subaru

Estimates show 6 Japanese automakers facing up to $21bn more in U.S. levies

Subaru, which imports nearly half the cars it sells in the U.S., could be among the Japanese automakers hit hard by new tariffs proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. (Subaru)

RYOSUKE HANADA

February 20, 2025 01:55 JST

TOKYO -- U.S. President Donald Trump's planned 25% tariff on imported vehicles, along with other threatened duties, could cost six major Japanese automakers up to 3.2 trillion yen ($21 billion) in additional levies, making it harder for companies like Mazda Motor and Subaru to compete.

Trump said Tuesday that tariffs "in the neighborhood of 25%" could be imposed as soon as April. Autos make up 28% of Japan's exports to the U.S., with passenger vehicles currently subject to a 2.5% levy.