The Centre quarterly newsletter, December 2024 issue, is out!
In this issue:
Call for…
The EU Japan Centre is releasing a weekly press review covering Japan's economic and policy matters.
▶ Japanese team launches research to make living on Moon reality
22 Dec, 2024
Kyoto University and Kajima Corp. have teamed up to develop a lunar habitat that generates artificial gravity, allowing people to live on the Moon under Earth-like conditions. Their "Neo Lunar Glass" structure, set to be built by the 2030s, will rotate to create gravity and address health issues caused by microgravity. The habitat, designed to house up to 10,000 people, will be 200 meters in diameter and 400 meters high. The project, which began this fiscal year, includes simulations and scale models to refine the technology needed for space colonies.
Mainichi: https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20241222/p2g/00m/0sc/015000c
▶ Vietnam's 1st Subway Opens with Japan's Aid
23 Dec, 2024
Vietnam's first subway service has launched in Ho Chi Minh City, part of a 19.7-kilometer urban railway line funded by Japan's official development assistance. The line connects the city center with the northeastern area, with 14 stations, including a 2.5 km underground section. The project, costing 212 billion yen, was delayed several times due to administrative issues and the COVID-19 pandemic. The subway is expected to ease traffic congestion and reduce air pollution. A local resident expressed excitement as she rode the train for the first time with her child.
Jiji: https://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2024122300198
▶ Japan chipmaker Rapidus's state aid draws flak over funding
24 Dec,2024
The Japanese government's financial support for chipmaker Rapidus is facing criticism from opposition lawmakers, who accuse the government of misappropriating unspent COVID relief funds for the semiconductor sector. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba defended the move, stating that unused funds were returned to the national treasury and not misappropriated. Critics, however, argue that the funds were originally allocated through deficit-covering bonds. The government has committed up to 920 billion yen in aid to Rapidus, which is working to revive advanced chip production in Japan. Concerns have also been raised about the high-risk nature of the semiconductor industry and the potential for wasted spending.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Tech/Semiconductors/Japan-chipmaker-Rapidus-s-state-aid-draws-flak-over-funding
▶ Appointment of Operator for the Offshore Wind Power Project off the Coast of Yuza Town, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan
24 Dec, 2024
Yamagata Yuza Offshore Wind LLC, a joint venture between Marubeni Corporation, Kansai Electric Power (KEPCO), BP IOTA, Tokyo Gas, and Marutaka Corporation, has been appointed to operate a 450,000 kW bottom-fixed offshore wind farm off the coast of Yuza Town in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. The project aims to support local communities, boost Japan's offshore wind industry, and contribute to a zero-carbon society. Marubeni, a key partner, has a strong track record in renewable energy and is expanding its renewable business based on its global experience, including its involvement in Japan's first large-scale offshore wind projects.
Marubeni: https://www.marubeni.com/en/news/2024/release/00056.html
▶ Japan to cut 60% of emissions by FY2035, but experts call for more
24 Dec, 2024
The Japanese government has approved a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% by fiscal 2035 compared to fiscal 2013 levels, with a longer-term target of a 73% reduction by fiscal 2040. Despite some experts criticizing the targets as insufficient to meet global climate goals, the government defended the plan as ambitious, aiming for both emissions reductions and economic growth. The targets will be submitted to the United Nations by February 2025. Japan's current target is a 46% reduction by fiscal 2030, with a long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
▶ Japan to ease 'startup visa' rules to lure foreign entrepreneurs
26 Dec, 2024
The Japanese government will ease "startup visa" restrictions for foreign entrepreneurs, starting in 2024. A nationwide two-year grace period will be granted for visa holders to meet business requirements, such as securing an office and hiring employees, which was previously available only in certain municipalities. The revision will merge existing programs from the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI). The change aims to attract foreign talent to establish startups in Japan, particularly in advanced technologies. Additionally, challenges such as opening bank accounts for new entrepreneurs are being addressed.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Immigration/Japan-to-ease-startup-visa-rules-to-lure-foreign-entrepreneurs2
▶ Japan seeks more investment with nuclear power revival
27 Dec, 2024
Japan's government is shifting towards greater reliance on nuclear power as part of its new energy strategy, the "GX 2040 Vision," aimed at achieving a decarbonized society by 2040. The plan includes significant support for renewable energy while also classifying nuclear power as a key source of green electricity. It outlines measures to attract businesses, including energy-intensive ones like data centers, to areas near nuclear and renewable plants, offering incentives such as tax breaks and subsidies. The strategy also proposes restarting offline reactors and replacing aging nuclear plants. A new emissions trading system is planned for 2026 to further support decarbonization efforts.
Asahi: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15568080
▶ METI Revises Sector-Specific Investment Strategy to Promote GX Achievements
27 Dec, 2024
The Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) has updated its "Sector-Specific Investment Strategy" to accelerate Green Transformation (GX) investments in Japan. The revised 10-year strategy focuses on 16 key sectors, including steel, chemicals, semiconductors, hydrogen, and renewable energy, aiming to promote decarbonization, economic growth, and energy stability. The strategy outlines investment promotion measures, such as GX transition bonds, to enhance corporate predictability and stimulate GX investments, driving Japan's progress toward achieving its GX goals.
METI(Japanese): https://www.meti.go.jp/press/2024/12/20241227006/20241227006.html
▶ Japan sees waning interest in offshore wind projects
30 Dec, 2024
Interest in offshore wind projects in Japan is waning due to rising costs, labor shortages, and concerns over profitability. Many companies, including Mitsubishi and Cosmo Energy, refrained from bidding in the third round of offshore wind project tenders. Despite this, two sites off Aomori and Yamagata prefectures were won by domestic and international consortiums. Offshore wind projects are expensive, requiring long-term investments, specialized personnel, and facing challenges like high costs for foreign-made turbines. The Japanese government is considering subsidies and adjustments to address these issues while aiming for up to 45 gigawatts of offshore wind power by 2040.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Environment/Japan-sees-waning-interest-in-offshore-wind-projects
▶ Japan and U.S. to start joint AI cyberattack research
03 Jan, 2025
Japan and the U.S. will collaborate on research into AI-driven cyberattacks, combining Japan's data on incidents outside English-speaking countries with U.S. technology. Japan's National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) will set up a facility in Washington to work with the U.S. nonprofit Mitre. The partnership aims to address the rising threat of AI-enabled cybercrimes, such as malware and deepfake attacks, which are increasing globally. Japan, facing growing security risks, plans to introduce countermeasures and AI-based systems to detect cyberattacks targeting the country.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Cybersecurity/Japan-and-U.S.-to-start-joint-AI-cyberattack-research
▶ Tokyo set to require solar panels on new homes from April
04 Jan, 2025
Starting in April, Tokyo will require major homebuilders to install solar panels on new detached houses to boost renewable energy and meet growing demand. While the mandate aims to help decarbonization, concerns about rising housing costs remain, as the installation adds significant expense despite subsidies. The measure, targeting about half of new homes, is Japan's first of its kind for detached houses.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Energy/Tokyo-set-to-require-solar-panels-on-new-homes-from-April
▶ Japanese researchers develop method to break down PFAS 'forever chemicals'
05 Jan, 2025
A research group from Ritsumeikan University in Japan has developed a new method to break down PFAS, or "forever chemicals," using nanometer-scale semiconductor crystals as catalysts and purple LED light. The method successfully degraded perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in hours at room temperature and normal pressure, without the need for high energy or expensive equipment. The process also allows the recovery of fluoride ions for other uses. Although still in the experimental stage, the method shows promise for efficiently decomposing PFAS and may contribute to the recycling of fluorine compounds in the future.
Japan Times: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/01/05/japan/science-health/japan-researchers-breakdown-forever-chemicals/
▶ Japan to pitch high-speed optical networks as next big export to U.S.
06 Jan, 2025
Japan's government plans to promote light-based telecommunications technology to U.S. tech giants by supporting a demonstration facility in Silicon Valley. Companies like Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT) and Fujitsu are leading the effort. The technology, which uses pulses of light instead of electrical signals, aims to reduce transmission delays and energy use, crucial for power-hungry data centers. Japan's communications ministry also seeks to provide an alternative to Chinese-made Huawei equipment in American data centers in Asia. NTT and Fujitsu aim to increase their market share, competing against U.S. and Chinese telecom giants.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Japan-to-pitch-high-speed-optical-networks-as-next-big-export-to-U.S
▶ Japan earmarks $1bn in support for chip designers
15 Jan, 2025
Japan is allocating 160 billion yen ($1 billion) to support its chip design industry, focusing on advanced chips for AI, data centers, and self-driving cars. The funding will cover design tools, researcher salaries, and prototyping costs. With Japan holding just 9% of the global market share, the government aims to boost domestic capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains. The plan also includes training talent and investing over 10 trillion yen in semiconductors and AI by 2030.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Tech/Semiconductors/Japan-earmarks-1bn-in-support-for-chip-designers
▶ Japan and U.S. private companies take on China in new Moon race
16 Jan, 2025
A rocket launched from the U.S. on January 2025 carries Japan's ispace lander for its second attempt to land on the moon. The mission aims for a May-June landing, making ispace the first Asian private company on the moon. After a failed attempt in 2023, ispace continues to push forward, with support from NASA and growing competition in lunar exploration, particularly from China. This marks a step in increasing private-sector involvement in space, with Japan also supporting space startups.
▶ Japan to handle stealth tech for fighter developed with U.K. and Italy
16 Jan, 2025
Japan will lead the airframe design for a next-gen fighter jet, focusing on stealth and using composite materials, in collaboration with the U.K. and Italy. The jet, set for prototype production by 2026 and deployment by 2035, will combine the strengths of all three countries, with Japan handling the airframe, and the U.K. and Italy managing systems and controls. The project aims to strengthen defense against regional threats.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Politics/Defense/Japan-to-handle-stealth-tech-for-fighter-developed-with-U.K.-and-Italy
Business News
▶ Toho Studios adopts hydrogen-fired power in 1st Japan commercial use
22 Dec, 2024
Toho Co., the studio behind the "Godzilla" series, has become the first company in Japan to use hydrogen-fired electricity at its main studio in Tokyo. The studio, working with Jera Co., aims for complete decarbonization by 2030. Jera supplies the studio with hydrogen and solar-powered energy, with a hydrogen power generation facility built for Toho in Chiba Prefecture. Toho's annual electricity consumption is equivalent to 1,500 households. The studio plans to continue advancing decarbonization to produce films using clean, zero-emissions energy.
Mainichi: https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20241222/p2g/00m/0bu/007000c
▶ Honda and Nissan aim to launch holding company with Honda's leadership
23 Dec, 2024
Honda and Nissan plan to create a joint holding company by around August 2026 to enhance their competitiveness in the global electric vehicle market. Honda will hold the majority of director positions, and its president will lead the company. The two companies are set to sign a memorandum of understanding on Monday and aim to finalize merger terms by June 2025. They also hope to involve Mitsubishi Motors, where Nissan is the largest shareholder. This move comes as the automotive industry rapidly advances in electrification and software integration.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Automobiles/Honda-and-Nissan-aim-to-launch-holding-company-with-Honda-s-leadership
▶ Toyota to make Lexus EVs at first independent China plant
23 Dec, 2024
Toyota Motor plans to build its first independently operated plant in China, focusing on producing luxury Lexus electric vehicles. The factory, set to open in Shanghai around 2027, will primarily cater to the Chinese market. This marks a shift from Toyota's previous joint ventures in China. Despite challenges in the competitive Chinese market, Toyota has managed to maintain a smaller decline in sales compared to other Japanese automakers. The move aligns with Lexus' goal of transitioning to 100% electric vehicle sales globally by 2035. Meanwhile, Honda has also expanded its EV production in China with new dedicated plants.
▶ Hitachi Energy and Ørsted to ensure grid stability at Hornsea 4 with a technology first for offshore wind in Europe
23 Dec, 2024
Hitachi Energy has received an order from Ørsted to provide power electronics technology for integrating 2.4 GW of renewable energy from the Hornsea 4 offshore wind farm into the UK grid. This will help meet the UK’s Clean Power 2030 targets. The technology, Enhanced STATCOM, will be used for grid stabilization, marking its first use in the offshore wind industry in Europe. The solution, combining SVC Light and supercapacitors, will manage grid frequency and voltage, supporting the transition to renewable energy. The project is set to be finalized in 2030, with a contract for difference (CfD) already secured.
Hitachi: https://www.hitachi.com/New/cnews/month/2024/12/241225a.pdf
▶ Japan's Kirin to halve logistics workforce with AI-controlled automation
27 Dec, 2024
Kirin Holdings has introduced an AI-powered logistics system, Sigma Synx, developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which reduces staff needed for sorting products by half. The system synchronizes machines like forklifts to streamline tasks and improve safety. This innovation addresses Japan's growing labor shortages in logistics, further stressed by truck driver overtime restrictions. Despite its potential, the high upfront cost of automation remains a challenge.
▶ Japan's Sekisui Chemical to make solar films in state-backed venture
27 Dec, 2024
Sekisui Chemical is launching a joint venture to mass-produce lightweight, flexible perovskite solar cells, with government subsidies covering half the $1.99 billion cost. The venture aims to start production in 2027, with a target of 100 megawatts annually, and expand to 1 gigawatt by 2030. Perovskite cells are lighter than silicon, offering potential for installation in space-limited areas like gym roofs. The company plans to improve efficiency and reduce manufacturing costs, with goals to make perovskite solar generation more competitive by 2030. This move supports Japan's push to increase renewable energy to 50% of its energy mix.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Energy/Japan-s-Sekisui-Chemical-to-make-solar-films-in-state-backed-venture
▶ TSMC begins mass production at 1st Japan chip plant in Kumamoto
27 Dec, 2024
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) has begun mass production at its first factory in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, producing logic chips for use in cars and image sensors. The chips, made with 12 to 28 nanometer process technologies, are for clients like Sony and Denso. TSMC also plans to build a second factory on the same site for more advanced 6-nanometer chips, with construction starting by March 2026 and operations set to begin by 2027. The Japanese government is offering over 1 trillion yen ($6.3 billion) in subsidies, viewing domestic chip production as essential for economic security amidst geopolitical tensions.
▶ Japan's Inpex eyes doubling capacity at Indonesia geothermal plant
27 Dec, 2024
Inpex plans to double the capacity of its Muara Laboh Geothermal Power Plant in Indonesia to 170 megawatts by 2030, tapping into the country's vast geothermal reserves. The expansion, in collaboration with Sumitomo Corp. and local partners, will help support Indonesia's push for renewable energy, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2060. Inpex, which also operates geothermal plants in Indonesia and Japan, is increasing its focus on renewable energy, targeting 1-2 gigawatts of renewable power capacity by 2030, alongside investments in offshore wind energy in Europe.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Energy/Japan-s-Inpex-eyes-doubling-capacity-at-Indonesia-geothermal-plant:
▶ ANA eyes Japan's first flying taxi service in Tokyo in fiscal 2027
01 Jan, 2025
ANA Holdings plans to launch Japan's first commercial flying taxi service in fiscal 2027, offering quick, shared rides between Narita Airport and central Tokyo for a fare similar to a regular taxi. The service will also connect other routes, including Narita to Haneda Airport. ANA is collaborating with Nomura Real Estate and Aeon to secure takeoff and landing sites. The service will use electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft from Joby Aviation, offering a quieter, eco-friendly alternative to helicopters. This service aims to alleviate traffic and enhance the competitiveness of Tokyo's airports.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Transportation/ANA-eyes-Japan-s-first-flying-taxi-service-in-Tokyo-in-fiscal-2027
▶ SoftBank to Build Next-Generation Industrial Park with AI-Based Data Center Utilizing Sharp’s Plant in Sakai, Osaka Pref.
03 Jan, 2025
SoftBank Corp. plans to build a next-generation industrial park in Sakai, Osaka Prefecture, by 2026, utilizing Sharp's former LCD panel plant. The park will feature an AI-powered data center and support the development of new products and services across various sectors. SoftBank aims to attract both large companies and startups to the park, promoting AI-driven innovation in fields like manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. The project will help address Japan's declining workforce by fostering AI-managed production facilities. Additionally, SoftBank plans to build similar AI-based industrial parks nationwide to drive regional revitalization.
Yomiuri: https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/business/companies/20250103-231009/
▶ Toyota's plan to build 3m cars at home under threat by Trump
03 Jan, 2025
Toyota is closely monitoring potential changes in U.S. tariffs and regulations as Donald Trump returns to the White House, which could affect its production and investment plans. The company has faced pressure from Trump in the past, especially regarding its Mexican production. Toyota's U.S. operations are critical, with 10 factories and plans for a $14 billion EV battery plant in North Carolina. Tariffs and shifting policies could impact Toyota’s Japanese exports and its production targets. However, Toyota may benefit from Trump’s skepticism toward electric vehicles, as it is strong in hybrids. The company is also ramping up its lobbying efforts in the U.S.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Automobiles/Toyota-s-plan-to-build-3m-cars-at-home-under-threat-by-Trump
▶ Panasonic creates bioplastic material strong enough for use in cars
04 Jan, 2025
Panasonic Holdings has developed a new plastic material that is both degradable in seawater and strong enough for automotive interiors and home appliances. Unlike current biodegradable plastics, which are weak and water-sensitive, this material is made by processing plant fibers and resin from plant oils, offering greater durability. It is expected to be used in thicker products like cups and buttons, with a decomposition rate of about 90% in seawater within two years. The material, which is certified as ocean-degradable, will be showcased at the CES technology trade show and priced 1.5 to 2 times higher than conventional plastics. The biodegradable plastics market is projected to grow significantly, reaching $16.96 billion by 2030.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Environment/Panasonic-creates-bioplastic-material-strong-enough-for-use-in-cars
▶ JR Tokai to mount solar cells on bullet train noise barriers
05 Jan, 2024
Central Japan Railway Co. (JR Tokai) plans to install next-generation perovskite solar cells on noise barriers along the Tokaido Shinkansen Line, which spans 650 kilometers. These lightweight, flexible solar cells, developed with Sekisui Chemical Co., will generate electricity to power station lighting and other rail facilities. Demonstration experiments, including tests for vibration and wind pressure from high-speed trains, will begin in Aichi Prefecture. The solar cells will be mounted on guide rails on the south-facing noise barriers, with practical implementation to be considered based on the results.
Asahi: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15573774
▶ World's largest LNG carrier fleet is about to get even bigger
06 Jan,2025
Japan's top three marine shipping companies—Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Nippon Yusen, and Kawasaki Kisen—plan to increase their LNG carrier fleets by over 40% by fiscal 2030 in response to rising global LNG production. Mitsui O.S.K. aims to expand its fleet by 40% to 140 ships by 2028, with plans to reach 150 by 2030. Nippon Yusen targets a 30% increase to 120 vessels by 2028, and Kawasaki Kisen plans a 60% boost to 75 ships by 2030. These companies, which control over 30% of the global LNG carrier fleet, seek to share construction costs to reduce investments, which are estimated at over $6 billion. Increased LNG demand is driven by factors like the Ukraine conflict and U.S. LNG exports. Global LNG trade is expected to rise significantly by 2035.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Transportation/World-s-largest-LNG-carrier-fleet-is-about-to-get-even-bigger
▶ Toyota to Open Woven City This Autumn at Earliest; Five Firms Join Project to Conduct Experiments
07 Jan, 2025
Toyota will launch Woven City, a demonstration city in Shizuoka Prefecture, this autumn. The city, spanning 700,000 square meters, will focus on developing advanced technologies like self-driving cars, AI, and hydrogen. About 100 residents, including Toyota employees, will move in initially, with plans to increase the population to 2,000. Companies such as Daikin and Nissin will collaborate on projects like creating pollen-free spaces and new food cultures. Toyota also announced a ¥7 billion investment in Interstellar Technologies to support rocket development for mass production.
Yomiuri: https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/business/companies/20250108-231887/
▶ Tesla supplier Panasonic Energy: cutting China supply ‘No.1 objective’ for U.S.
07 Jan, 20225
Panasonic Energy plans to reduce its reliance on China for electric vehicle battery supplies in the U.S., with a focus on domestic production. This move comes in response to potential tariffs on Chinese goods under President Trump’s policies. While Panasonic already sources some materials from Canada, the company aims to shift away from Chinese supply chains. The company operates a Nevada battery plant and plans to open another in Kansas. Japanese firms are preparing for trade uncertainties, especially regarding potential tariffs on Mexico and Canada.
Asahi: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15575906
▶ Sony Honda’s first EV set for 2026 debut in U.S., self-driving
08 Jan, 2025
Sony Honda Mobility has started taking orders for its electric vehicle, the Afeela 1, which features partially autonomous driving technology and advanced multimedia entertainment. Priced at $89,900, the car will be shipped to U.S. customers in 2026, followed by Japan. The Afeela 1 includes Level 3 autonomous driving, allowing hands-free driving on highways, and offers high-quality video, audio, and AI integration. The car's sleek design includes multiple touchscreens and entertainment features like karaoke and PlayStation 5 connectivity, highlighting Sony's entertainment expertise.
Asahi: https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15576078
▶ Japan's NTT Docomo, NEC to build Indonesia communications network
09 Jan, 2025
NTT Docomo and NEC are partnering in a joint venture, Orex Sai, to develop a high-speed network in Indonesia, aiming to compete with Huawei. The project, supported by the Japanese government, will use Open RAN technology to improve infrastructure in rural areas, with a $3 billion investment over 10 years. Testing begins in 2025, with a full rollout by 2026, countering China's influence in the region.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Telecommunication/Japan-s-NTT-Docomo-NEC-to-build-Indonesia-communications-network
▶ Japan startup's auto-focus glasses draw eyes on crowdfunding sites
09 Jan, 2025
ViXion, a Japanese startup, raised over 400 million yen ($2.5 million) through crowdfunding for its autofocusing glasses, surpassing its initial goal. The company, a spinoff from Hoya, released an unfinished product and improved it based on customer feedback. In a second crowdfunding round, it raised 100 million yen for lighter glasses for astigmatism. ViXion chose alternative platforms like Kibidango and Greenfunding to target tech-savvy consumers. The glasses have received positive reviews for relieving vision-related pain, though some users noted design limitations. ViXion aims to balance smartphone use and eye health in a tech-driven society.
Nikkei Asia: https://asia.nikkei.com/Business/Technology/Japan-startup-s-auto-focus-glasses-draw-eyes-on-crowdfunding-sites
▶ Carbon Magnet Brought Closer to Practical Use
09 Jan, 2025
A team from Kyoto University has made significant progress in developing a lightweight, low-cost, high-performance carbon magnet that doesn't require rare earth minerals. Traditional magnets, often made from neodymium, are heavy and face supply risks. The team focused on using graphene nanoribbons, which are ultrathin carbon structures, as an alternative magnet material. The results of this research were published in the international academic journal Nature on January 8, 2025.
Jiji: https://jen.jiji.com/jc/eng?g=eco&k=2025010900051
Kyoto University (Japanese): https://www.kyoto-u.ac.jp/ja/research-news/2025-01-09
▶ Japan carmakers brace for Trump tariffs with tie-ups, supply shifts
17 Jan, 2025
Japanese automakers are adjusting to U.S. President-elect Trump’s proposed tariffs on imports, which could impact profits, especially for Mazda and Subaru. Companies like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are exploring new partnerships and shifting production to reduce the impact. The tariffs on Mexico and Canada imports could also affect automakers with production in those countries, prompting them to reassess their strategies.
Kyodo: https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2025/01/199191377dfb-focus-japan-carmakers-brace-for-trump-tariffs-with-tie-ups-supply-shifts.html
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