Trump’s Japan Tariffs Shake Asia, Boost Stocks and Car Makers

President Donald Trump's latest trade move—a 15% tariff on Japanese exports to the U.S., including automobiles, rice, and trucks—has sent ripples across Asian markets. While steep, the rate comes as a relief compared to earlier threats of 25%, anchoring market expectations toward a less severe outcome. Japanese automakers, in particular, have emerged as unexpected beneficiaries.

Toyota surged over 15%, Mazda jumped 17%, and Mitsubishi Motors climbed 13% following the announcement. Honda and Nissan also posted gains exceeding 8%. The reprieve from a feared 25% auto tariff has reinvigorated confidence in a sector accounting for nearly 30% of Japan’s U.S. exports. European car stocks mirrored the optimism, with Porsche, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen all advancing.