"Japan also agreed the United States could phase out its auto tariffs, which are 2.5 percent on cars and 25 percent on trucks, over the longest period possible

"Japan also agreed the United States could phase out its auto tariffs, which are 2.5 percent on cars and 25 percent on trucks, over the longest period possible in the future TPP deal. Levin criticized the commitment in that area, saying any phase-out of the U.S. tariffs should be linked to measurable improvement in sales of U.S. cars in Japan." It's all highly suggestive that it's a concession in part of a broader strategy. I'm sure there's a complex interplay of interests going on with the TPP as a whole, US auto, and Japanese auto. US auto seems like it's getting the raw end and may be trying to grab at whatever they can and perhaps the Japanese may be making a large concession in another area(not auto related) to get more automotive foothold in the US. ^complete speculation; I don't know jack about politics/economics/current events.