Tokyo — Japan’s car makers’ lobby said on Tuesday it was dismayed by President Donald Trump’s declaration that some imported vehicles and parts posed a threat to US national security, as the industry braces for a possible rise in US tariffs. Trump made the unprecedented designation of foreign vehicles on Friday but delayed for up to six months a decision on whether to impose tariffs to allow for more time for trade talks with Japan and the EU. “We are dismayed to hear a message suggesting that our long-time contributions of investment and employment in the US are not welcomed,” said Akio Toyoda, chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association. “As chairman, I am deeply saddened by this decision,” Toyoda, president of Toyota Motor, said in a statement. Trump has threatened to impose tariffs of up to 25% on imported cars made by foreign car makers, a move which car makers have argued would ramp up car prices, curb the global competitiveness of US-made vehicles and limit inv...
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