US machine tool tariff probe targets field led by Japan

Trump tariffs

Import curbs on key equipment seen hindering American manufacturing revival

The Americas accounted for about 30% of machine tool maker Okuma’s sales in the year ended March, making it one of its largest markets. (Okuma)

MASASHI ISAWA, TAKURO HOSODA and MAI ISHITSUBO

September 25, 2025 23:31 JST

TOKYO — The recently announced U.S. tariff investigation into machine tools could deal a blow to suppliers in Japan, America’s top source of the equipment, as well as raise production costs in the U.S. as it tries to bring back manufacturing.