Mitsubishi Motors' CEO, Takao Kato, has expressed concerns regarding the potential impact on the company's U.S. operations if Donald Trump wins the U.S. presidential election. Given that Mitsubishi imports all its vehicles sold in the United States, a shift towards trade policies that may hinder imports could affect their recovery in the American market.
Kato emphasized the importance of collaboration with partners in this uncertain climate but refrained from discussing specific future strategies. Despite being a smaller player in the U.S. car market, Mitsubishi has been working to boost global sales and profitability, with significant improvements linked to its North American performance.
In the third quarter, from July to September, Mitsubishi Motors saw the largest year-over-year increase in sales in North America, with a surge of 10,000 units. This region also contributed the largest share of operating profit, highlighting its crucial role in the company's financial success.
As Mitsubishi recovers its U.S. business, North America has become the company's second-largest market after Southeast Asia, a long-time leader. Mitsubishi remains optimistic about its prospects in North America, with Kato underscoring the market's profitability and strategic importance.
Notably, Nissan, the third-largest Japanese car manufacturer, owns 34% of Mitsubishi Motors. Both companies have their North American headquarters located in a suburb of Nashville, Tennessee.
