The United States imposes a 24% tariff on Japan
In April 2025, US President Donald Trump announced a new trade policy that would impose a uniform 10% tariff on all imports and additional taxes (24% on Japan) on certain countries, including Japan.
This will have a major impact on the world, and it is likely to have a direct impact on the Japanese economy and the lives of ordinary consumers in particular.
The background to this tariff measure is the protection of domestic manufacturing in the United States and the correction of the trade deficit. President Trump has once again emphasized his "America First" stance and aims to strengthen domestic industries by imposing high tariffs on products from overseas.
Among them, Japan exports products to the United States in many major industries, such as automobiles, electronic devices, and steel, and the current tariffs are likely to hit these major exports directly.
If this tariff measure continues, it is expected that the following effects will occur on the Japanese economy and our lives.
- Decreasing profits for exporting companies: Major Japanese manufacturers (e.g., automobile, electronics, steel, etc.) may lose price competitiveness in the American market, leading to sales declines, production adjustments, and ultimately employment instability.
- Exchange rate fluctuations: The yen will fluctuate more sharply, significantly affecting the profit structure of companies.
- Possibility of price increases: Parts and products from the United States will also be affected, so rising import prices may push up prices overall and increase inflationary pressure.
What consumers should be careful about
As the international economy becomes more unstable, we also need to make wise decisions in our daily lives.
- Review your spending: Prices of daily necessities and electrical appliances may rise in the future, so try to limit wasteful spending and plan your consumption.
- Be conscious of savings: It is important to prepare for price fluctuations and secure emergency funds that can be used in emergencies.
- Look to domestic products: One option is to use domestic products and support the local economy instead of relying on imports.
In addition, due to the influence of exchange rates, costs may increase for remittances and overseas transactions. Make use of money-saving apps and discount stores to live a reasonable life.
The additional tariffs imposed by the United States this time could have a major impact on Japan's economy and our lives. The world situation remains unstable, but it is necessary to remain calm and understand the situation, and be conscious of "living wisely" in preparation for the future.
