Core Viewpoint - Toyota plans to start selling its U.S.-made Camry sedans, Highlander SUVs, and Tundra pickups in Japan from next year to improve U.S.-Japan trade relations [1] Group 1: Trade Relations - Toyota is exploring the possibility of "reverse imports" to address the significant trade surplus Japan has with the U.S. [1] - The company aims to persuade President Trump to lower tariffs on Japanese cars and related parts exported to the U.S. [1] - A clause in the U.S.-Japan trade agreement requires Japan to "open its market" to allow imports of American cars [1] Group 2: Corporate Initiatives - Toyota's Chairman Akio Toyoda previously suggested that U.S. automakers could utilize Toyota's sales network in Japan to sell cars [1] - The company has recently launched production at its $13.9 billion battery plant in North Carolina to increase hybrid vehicle output [1] - Toyota confirmed plans to invest $10 billion in U.S. manufacturing over the next five years [1]

Core Viewpoint - Toyota plans to reverse import three models, including the Camry, Tundra, and Highlander, from the U.S. to Japan starting in 2026, aiming to address trade deficit concerns raised by the U.S. government and to expand customer options [2][4]. Group 1: Reverse Import Strategy - The models targeted for reverse import include the Camry, Tundra, and Highlander, which are currently not sold in Japan [4]. - This strategy is seen as a response to the U.S. government's concerns about trade deficits and aims to provide more options for Japanese consumers [2][4]. - Other Japanese automakers, such as Honda and Nissan, are also exploring similar reverse import strategies, indicating a growing trend among Japanese car manufacturers to increase production in the U.S. [5]. Group 2: Regulatory Considerations - The implementation of reverse imports is contingent upon the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism simplifying the import vehicle review process [4]. - The ministry is considering a new "ministerial exception" system that would allow for safety certification through document review, potentially expediting the process by early 2026 [4]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The rising labor costs in the U.S. and transportation costs to Japan present challenges for Toyota's profitability in this reverse import initiative [4]. - Toyota's Chairman, Akio Toyoda, has expressed a positive attitude towards reverse imports, aligning with the U.S. administration's push for increased sales of American cars in Japan [4].