日经中文网·2025-07-25 05:41Core Viewpoint - The U.S. is reducing the automobile import tariff on Japan from 27.5% to 15%, which will alleviate the financial burden on Japanese automakers, but the high tariff level is expected to become a new norm, limiting future growth prospects [1][3][7]. Group 1: Tariff Changes and Financial Impact - The estimated reduction in tariff burden for seven major Japanese automakers is approximately 1.6 trillion yen, down from a previous burden of 3.47 trillion yen [3][4]. - The impact on operating profit for these companies is expected to decrease from a 47% drop to a 25% drop for the fiscal year 2024 [3]. - Specific companies like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan will see their tariff impacts reduced significantly, with Toyota's burden decreasing from 1.6 trillion yen to 872 billion yen [3][4]. Group 2: Supply Chain Adjustments - Japanese automakers are restructuring their supply chains to mitigate tariff impacts, with Honda moving production of its Civic hybrid model to the U.S. [4]. - Mitsubishi Motors, lacking a factory in the U.S., will rely on Nissan for OEM production [4]. Group 3: Local Market Reactions - U.S. manufacturers, including General Motors, express dissatisfaction with the tariff reduction, arguing it undermines American industry and labor [6]. - Despite the tariff reduction, Japanese automakers may still face challenges in maintaining competitiveness without price increases, as inflation continues to affect consumer behavior [7]. Group 4: Long-term Outlook - The high tariff rate of 15% is expected to persist, leading to a need for Japanese automakers to enhance local production and operational efficiency [7][8]. - The competitive landscape in the U.S. market is becoming increasingly challenging for Japanese automakers, especially with the rise of domestic manufacturers in China [8].