Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed concern on Friday about the impact of the 25% tariffs announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on foreign automobile imports, warning of significant consequences for Japan's economy.

Speaking during a parliamentary session, Ishiba stated that the tariffs would have a "massive" effect on Japan's economy and emphasized that his government would take all necessary measures to protect domestic industries and jobs.

He expressed hope that the United States would exempt Japan from the auto tariffs, adding that Tokyo was carefully assessing the potential impact on various industries.

President Trump announced the new tariffs on all foreign vehicle imports to the U.S. last Wednesday, with the measures set to take effect on April 3.