折腾一整年，日本送来“特别账单”，特朗普看后直皱眉：这钱真难收

Core Insights - The article discusses the impact of increased tariffs on Japanese auto parts suppliers due to U.S. trade policies, highlighting the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the industry [1][30][68] - It emphasizes the structural issues within the Japanese automotive supply chain, where larger manufacturers exert significant pressure on smaller suppliers, leading to a precarious financial situation for many [30][33][68] Group 1: Tariff Impact - By 2025, U.S. tariffs on Japanese auto parts have risen from 2.5% to 15%, creating substantial cost pressures on suppliers [1] - A survey indicated that only about 40% of 32 surveyed auto parts manufacturers successfully passed on the additional costs to customers, while the remaining 60% struggled to do so [1][30] - The Japanese government has begun enforcing laws to protect suppliers, which has slightly improved the situation, with the cost transfer rate increasing from 30% to 40% over six months [1][30] Group 2: Supplier Dynamics - The automotive supply chain in Japan is characterized by a pyramid structure, with major manufacturers like Toyota and Honda at the top, followed by large suppliers and numerous SMEs at the bottom [1][30] - Many SMEs operate on thin profit margins of 3% to 5%, making it difficult to absorb the additional 15% export costs without risking bankruptcy [1][30] - Larger suppliers like NTN have begun to adopt more aggressive pricing strategies to mitigate risks, while others remain hesitant [2][4][30] Group 3: Strategic Responses - Some companies are considering relocating production to the U.S. to avoid tariffs, while others are investing in existing U.S. facilities to increase capacity [20][23][30] - Internal optimization strategies are being employed by some firms to reduce the impact of tariffs, but these methods have limitations and may not be sustainable in the long term [28][30] - The article notes a shift in supplier relationships, with increased skepticism about the long-term viability of partnerships due to the pressure from larger manufacturers [33][34] Group 4: Broader Industry Challenges - The article highlights the broader geopolitical risks affecting the supply chain, including semiconductor shortages and disruptions in rare earth supplies, which further complicate the situation for Japanese suppliers [30][68] - The traditional Just-in-Time (JIT) production model is becoming a liability in the current uncertain environment, prompting a reevaluation of supply chain strategies [39][40] - The ongoing pressure from U.S. tariffs and geopolitical tensions is reshaping the global automotive supply chain, with potential long-term consequences for the industry [30][68]