Huan Qiu Shi Bao·2025-07-24 22:50Group 1 - The recent US-Japan trade agreement is viewed as a significant victory by President Trump, but it raises concerns for American automakers who fear competitive disadvantages [1][2] - The agreement reduces the "reciprocal tariff" rate from 25% to 15%, with a 12.5% tariff on Japanese cars, leading to a total of 15% when combined with the previous 2.5% tariff [1] - American automakers, represented by a trade organization, argue that the agreement gives Japanese cars an advantage over those produced by the "Big Three" automakers in the US [1][2] Group 2 - The US automotive policy committee chairman states that American companies and workers are at a disadvantage due to high tariffs on steel, aluminum, and vehicle parts [2] - General Motors reported an $1.1 billion loss in the second quarter due to the tariffs, with expectations of worsening impacts in the third quarter [2] - The White House claims the agreement will create hundreds of thousands of jobs in the US and lead to a $550 billion investment from Japan [2] Group 3 - Concerns exist regarding the actual penetration of American cars in the Japanese market, which is known for being one of the most closed automotive markets globally [3] - Only 6% of cars sold in Japan are imported from other countries, and the market favors smaller vehicles over the larger American trucks and SUVs [3] - The US Treasury Secretary warned that higher tariffs would be reinstated if Japan does not comply with the trade agreement [3]