Toyota Plans to Export U.S.-Built Cars to Japan Ahead of Trump’s Tokyo Visit

Toyota is preparing to export American-made vehicles to Japan, a strategic MOVE timed with President Trump’s upcoming visit to Tokyo. Chairman Akio Toyoda will personally convey the plan to U.S. officials during high-level meetings with Japanese business leaders.

The automaker’s president, Koji Sato, confirmed the company is evaluating specific models and volumes for the initiative. While details remain unresolved, the intent to bypass trade tensions is clear—a direct response to July’s U.S.-Japan tariff agreement that imposed new levies on Japanese exports.

Tokyo is concurrently revising vehicle standards to fast-track imports of U.S.-built cars without redundant testing. This synchronized effort by Japan’s public and private sectors aims to demonstrate cooperation on reducing America’s trade deficit.

The development coincides with Trump’s Southeast Asia tour, which includes stops in Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea. Market watchers interpret Toyota’s maneuver as both a diplomatic gesture and a hedge against escalating auto trade friction.