Trump's auto tariff threat "makes me sad," said Toyota chief Akio Toyoda

WASHINGTON – Toyota Motor Corp. Chairman Akio Toyoda lamented Friday the threat by US President Donald Trump to impose heavy tariffs on imports of automobiles, including those of Japan.

Highlighting Toyota's contribution to the US economy and employment, Toyoda said it is saddened by calls in the US for Japanese import trade management, worried about their impact on safety. national.

"I do not know why they call it a threat to national security. It really makes me sad, "he said in a speech to the Economic Club of Washington.

"I hope that this kind of conversation will fade," Toyoda said, speaking through an interpreter.

Toyoda was in the US capital to present the 2020 GR Supra, a sports car on sale this summer.

At the latest demonstration of Toyota's commitment to the United States, the automaker announced on Thursday that it would increase its investment in the world's largest economy by 30%, to reach $ 13 billion worth. Here 2021.

Toyoda is committed to increasing the manufacturer's investment in the United States, highlighting its close ties with dealers, suppliers and local communities.

"What I can promise you is that Toyota would like to stay in this country," regardless of the final decision of the Trump administration on imported cars, he said.