Impact of Trump Tariffs: Challenging the Automotive Industry's Future

Exploring the Impact of Trump Tariffs on the Automotive Industry

On May 19, 2025, a critical seminar titled "Impact of Trump Tariffs: Challenging the Automotive Industry's Future" will be held, featuring guest professor Tsuguo Nobe from Nagoya University. This seminar aims to dissect the ramifications of the tariffs imposed under the Trump administration on the global automotive market and the industry's prospects for change.

The session addresses a pivotal moment, as it has been four months since Trump’s second term commenced, bringing about economic policies that defy previous norms. The seminar will provide an overview of the influence these tariffs have had on various countries’ automotive sectors, fostering a discussion around potential strategies Japan may adopt in response.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Initial Impacts: The seminar will open by examining the initial outcomes of Trump’s tariffs. This includes insights on how the abandonment of environmental fairness has led to a pursuit of energy dominance through fossil fuels.
2. International Responses: Understanding the reactions from automotive manufacturers in Europe and the U.S. will be crucial. Are these tariffs a tactical game or a serious economic stance? The expert will analyze this critical aspect and delineate different government strategies.
3. The Unusual Structure of Tariffs: The session will critically assess how these tariffs contrast with historical trends in international economics, revealing the risk of declination for a globally-focused automotive industry.
4. Regional Market Impacts: The implications for various regions, including the U.S., Europe, and China, will be detailed. This will include a comparative analysis of each market’s unique struggles and strengths, specifically putting a spotlight on Japan's competitive advantages.
5. Technological Transformations: The automotive industry is simultaneously experiencing a technological revolution. Participants will explore the future of energy choices between traditional internal combustion engines and electric vehicles (EVs). There will be discussions around how changing gas prices, battery technologies, and the influence of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) may shape the industry's direction.
6. Final Thoughts: Concluding remarks will tie together all discussions, reiterating key takeaways and strategic directions for the automotive industry moving forward.
7. Q&A Session: Attendees will have the chance to engage with the expert during a Q&A segment, further enriching the learning experience through direct interaction.

Attendance Details:

Participants can join either in-person at the SSK Seminar Room in Minato City, Tokyo, or via a live stream on Zoom. For those unable to attend live, an archive will be available for two weeks, allowing flexibility to engage with the material at their convenience.

About SSK Research Institute:

Founded in December 1996, SSK Research Institute has become a leading provider of business seminars, conducting around 500 events annually. SSK is dedicated to providing high-level information on management strategies, marketing, and technology to foster business opportunities amidst diverse market environments. In addition to seminars, SSK offers various services including lecturer commissions, B2B advertising, and market research support, positioning itself as a strategic partner for businesses looking to succeed in today's ever-evolving landscape.

For more details or inquiries, visit SSK's official website or contact them at their headquarters in Minato City, Tokyo.