Toyota eyes more U.S. imports to Taiwan amid potential tariff cuts
8891.com.tw, 1 Oct '25
Toyota is evaluating its import strategy for Taiwan in response to potential reductions in tariffs on U.S.-made vehicles.
In anticipation of a potential tariff reduction, Toyota is preparing to expand imports from its American factories. The automaker has submitted a proposal outlining the plan.
If the tariff cut is finalised, future Taiwanese imports of the RAV4 and Camry may shift from Japan to the United States.
The development followed the conclusion of the 2025 Toyota Gazoo Racing Corolla Cup. During the event, Toyota executives indicated in interviews that the company is adjusting its product strategy to include more U.S.-built models.
Alongside the existing Sienna, both the RAV4 and Camry are under consideration for import from the United States, in response to the government's position on tariff reductions.
On 1st August, the White House announced reciprocal tariffs between Taiwan and the United States, imposing a 20% duty on Taiwanese exports to the U.S. The Taiwanese government described these measures as "temporary tariffs," emphasising ongoing negotiations over supply chain cooperation and Section 232 issues, which cover semiconductors, automobiles, and parts. Officials noted that, once an agreement is reached, tariffs could be further reduced. Consumers are anticipating the possibility of zero tariffs on American vehicles, which could affect domestic car prices.
U.S. Commerce Secretary Roosevelt recently stated in an interview that a Taiwan-U.S. tariff and trade agreement would be reached "very soon."
Local media also reported that Vice Premier Cheng Li-jung has travelled to Washington for the fifth round of substantive consultations aimed at resolving tariff disputes.
Collectively, these developments indicate that the Taiwan-U.S. tariff negotiations may conclude shortly.
Toyota is adjusting its strategy in response to these potential changes. Should tariffs on U.S.-made vehicles be reduced to zero, American-built imports would no longer be subject to the current 17.5% tax, allowing automakers to modify pricing strategies.
With the RAV4 and Camry already positioned as "imported cars at domestic prices," a tariff reduction could influence their market pricing.
Industry experts caution that lower tariffs do not automatically result in lower showroom prices. Final retail pricing will remain dependent on manufacturer policies, market conditions, and supply-and-demand dynamics.