Japanese automakers have set a new record for imports of vehicles made outside Japan during the first half of 2026. To reduce production costs, companies like Suzuki and Toyota have expanded manufacturing operations in emerging markets such as India and Thailand, then imported these vehicles back to Japan for domestic sale.
Suzuki Motor notably led the import surge with its India-made Jimny Nomade model, which helped the company secure first place in vehicle imports to Japan from January through June. This trend reflects a strategic shift by Japanese carmakers to leverage cheaper overseas labor while meeting demand in their home market.
This information was reported from Tokyo by Itsuki Miyake for Nikkei Asia on July 29, 2026.
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