Guan Cha Zhe Wang·2026-03-30 06:42Core Viewpoint - The Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry has significantly reduced the subsidy for BYD's electric vehicles, dropping it to 150,000 yen (approximately 936 USD or 6,486.15 RMB), which is more than a 50% cut from previous levels [1][5]. Group 1: Subsidy Changes - The revised subsidy scheme will take effect in April 2023, with the new rules applying to affected models starting January 2027 [1][5]. - Previously, BYD's subsidies ranged from 350,000 to 400,000 yen (approximately 1,510 to 1,730 RMB), but the new amount places BYD at the lowest subsidy level among Japanese car dealers [3][7]. - In contrast, Toyota's bZ4X, which uses domestically produced batteries, maintains the highest subsidy of 1,300,000 yen (approximately 59,200 RMB), about ten times that of BYD [3][7]. Group 2: Industry Reactions - BYD's Japan representative expressed disappointment over the subsidy cuts, indicating that it would negatively impact consumers [3][7]. - The Japanese government justified the subsidy reductions by stating that BYD's models received lower comprehensive evaluation scores [3][7]. - Concerns have been raised regarding the fairness of the evaluation process, with BYD's president claiming that the company received an unjust score despite its efforts in establishing fast-charging infrastructure [4][9]. Group 3: Broader Implications - Analysts suggest that the subsidy adjustments may be a result of the US-Japan tariff agreement, aimed at ensuring fair competition conditions [4][9]. - The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry acknowledged that the adjustments were based on the consensus reached in the US-Japan tariff agreement [4][9]. - There are allegations of preferential treatment towards certain automakers, as the evaluation criteria have not changed, raising questions about transparency [5][9].