Commerce Chief Lutnick Calls 15% Japan Auto Tariff a Threshold, Eyes EU Template

US Commerce Secretary Lutnick said a 15% U.S. tariff on cars assembled in Japan is "right on the edge" of making production there economically viable for manufacturers. He added that Tokyo has effectively secured a lower rate than the duties Washington applies to other foreign auto makers. Lutnick suggested the framework negotiated with Japan could serve as a template for an eventual trade agreement with the European Union, hinting that similar tariff levels might be considered in talks with Brussels.