Japan has simplified the import process for U.S. cars to allow for quicker entry without additional inspections, following a trade agreement with the U.S.
On February 16, Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) implemented a revised ordinance under the Road Transport Vehicle Act to streamline the inspection process for imported cars from the United States. Previously, even if vehicles met U.S. safety standards, they required additional testing in Japan; under the new rules, if certain safety conditions are met based on the vehicle type, inspections can be expedited through paperwork alone.
According to MLIT, additional testing will now be waived if manufacturers provide documentation of tests conducted in the U.S. that demonstrate vehicle safety, even if those tests have not been performed under Japanese standards. The certification process will allow for expedited approval from the Minister, with a star sticker required to be affixed to the rear of the vehicles and a notation indicating "certified U.S. vehicle" on the vehicle inspection certificate.
This change comes in response to pressures from U.S. interests and intensifying trade negotiations, amid President Trump's critical remarks regarding Japan's automotive import policies. The simplification of procedures for U.S. car imports is expected to impact the market dynamics significantly, bearing implications for trade relations between Japan and the United States as well as for Japanese automakers looking to balance compliance with both U.S. and domestic safety regulations.
