Honda Motor (TYO:7267) is considering importing US-made vehicles to Japan as regulations on American autos are set to ease, Nikkei reported Sunday.

Models under review include the Ridgeline pickup, the Passport sport utility vehicle and electric models from Honda's Acura luxury brand. The move would help address US concerns over Japan's trade surplus, long criticized by President Donald Trump, according to the report.

Japan's transport ministry is weighing an exemption scheme that would allow US-certified passenger cars to enter Japan based on document checks alone, without additional safety testing, possibly from next year. The plan follows a Japan-US tariff agreement reached this year, the report said.

Toyota Motor (TYO:7203) and Nissan Motor (TYO:7201) are also studying imports of US-built vehicles, according to the report.

(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)