Trump Tariffs could make JDM cars more affordable in NZ again

JDM performance icons like the Nissan Skyline GT-R could soon become pricier in the US, but for enthusiasts in New Zealand, that might be a blessing in disguise.

According to Canadian journalist Brendan McAleer, writing for Car and Driver, proposed tariffs from the Trump administration could hit Japanese car imports hard. If that happens, the once-booming US market for JDM cars could shrink, sending more stock down under and potentially driving prices down.

“If the US market for JDM cars dries up, many of them will instead end up in Australia and New Zealand, both of which are already a paradise for JDM cars,” McAleer explained.

Read more 1997 Nissan Skyline GT-R R33 classic feature

25 per cent Tariff Could Reshape the Market

The proposed 25 per cent tariff on Japanese imports—set to take effect as early as April 2, 2025—would be a massive blow to the US JDM scene. Currently, America’s 25-year import rule means highly sought-after models like the R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R are slowly trickling into the country as they become legal. But with added costs, demand could weaken.

New Zealand, on the other hand, has long been a haven for JDM imports. Prices have risen steeply since 2020 however. 

A Shift in Supply?

With tariffs potentially pushing JDM prices sky-high in the US, warehouses full of cars waiting for their 25th birthday—such as R34 Skylines—could instead find their way to other markets. 

While the US is a relatively small market for JDM imports compared to New Zealand, a decrease in American demand could increase supply for our region, softening prices for buyers.

For now, the tariffs remain in limbo. President Trump has already delayed similar taxes on Mexican and Canadian imports, giving manufacturers a temporary reprieve. But if the Japan tariffs go ahead as planned on April 2, 2025, it could be game-changing for JDM fans in New Zealand.