Toyota Motor Corporation announced that it will begin selling its U.S.-manufactured Camry sedan, Highlander SUV, and Tundra pickup truck in Japan beginning in 2026. The vehicles will be produced at Toyota’s U.S. plants—Kentucky for the Camry, Indiana for the Highlander, and Texas for the Tundra—before being shipped to Japanese dealers.
The decision is part of a broader strategy to use Toyota’s global manufacturing footprint more flexibly. By sourcing vehicles from the U.S., Toyota can reduce logistics costs, mitigate supply‑chain disruptions, and take advantage of favorable exchange rates. The move also signals a commitment to improving Japan‑U.S. trade relations, addressing the long‑standing trade surplus that has prompted political pressure in both countries.
Toyota’s re‑entry into the Japanese market with the Camry and Highlander—models that were discontinued in 2023 and 2007, respectively—creates a new revenue channel and taps an unmet demand for larger, U.S.‑centric vehicles. The launch will be supported by a new vehicle approval system being considered by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, a product of recent bilateral negotiations. The strategy underscores Toyota’s intent to balance regional production with global demand while maintaining flexibility in its supply chain.
Management emphasized the dual benefits of the initiative. “By selling these three popular American models in Japan, Toyota will be able to meet the diverse needs of a broad range of customers while also helping to improve Japan–U.S. trade relations,” a Toyota spokesperson said. The statement highlights confidence in the U.S. manufacturing footprint and a pragmatic approach to global trade pressures.
The announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about trade imbalances between Japan and the U.S. While the U.S. seeks to increase vehicle exports to Japan, Toyota’s move is expected to strengthen its competitive position in the Japanese market and demonstrate resilience against future trade policy shifts.
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