To Appease US President Donald Trump, Japan Purchases Ford Pickup Trucks

In preparation for US President Donald Trump’s visit to Japan later this month, the Japanese government is exploring ways to express goodwill. According to recent reports, Japan plans to purchase dozens of Ford F-150 pickup trucks. This decision follows a new tariff agreement reached between the US and Japan less than two months ago.

Officials are reportedly considering purchasing more than 100 F-150s, which would be used for road and dam inspections. One could even be displayed outside Akasaka Palace, the state residence where Trump will stay during his visit. With this move, Tokyo wants to respond to Trump’s long-standing complaints about low sales of American cars in Japan.

Data shows that in 2024, only 16,000 American cars were sold in Japan, while Japanese manufacturers exported 1.37 million vehicles to the US during the same period.

While the plan appears to be a diplomatic success, there is a significant issue. Ford officially withdrew from the Japanese market in 2016, meaning there are no authorized service centers or dealerships in the country to service these vehicles. The government would need to rely on independent mechanics for repairs. Additionally, this move is unlikely to encourage private buyers to purchase American vehicles. Large American SUVs and pickup trucks have never gained popularity in Japan, where narrow streets and limited parking spaces make smaller, domestic models a more practical choice.

Interestingly, Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda recently expressed his willingness to import some of the brand’s American models to Japan, including the large Tundra pickup truck. The move could serve as a subtle test of the local market and gauge interest in large American-style vehicles.

• Also See: Ford Says It Isn’t Giving Up On Regular Cars