【Regulatory Monthly Report】Global Vehicle Regulatory Developments – July 2025

Highlights: In July 2025, key developments in global vehicle regulation included:

• US: Announced intent to eliminate retroactive penalties on automakers for failing to meet 2022 fuel-economy targets, which has direct implications for compliance burdens.car-importers.org.il
• US–Japan / US–EU: In July, the US reached framework agreements with Japan and the EU on vehicle and parts tariffs, targeting a uniform 15% tariff in many categories.Reuters+1
• Korea / US: In early July, Korean automakers and industry associations requested relief from proposed US port fees on foreign-built car carriers, citing added cost burdens.Reuters
• China / EV export regulation: Media reports indicated China plans to require export permits for electric vehicles starting in 2026.AP News
• Global / supply chain & trade shifts: In July, tariff policy, technology restrictions, and EV supply chain reconfiguration emerged as central compliance risk points for OEMs and suppliers.

Regional Breakdown

United States (US)

• Retroactive Penalty Policy Change: In July, US regulators announced proposals to remove retroactive penalties imposed on automakers who failed to meet 2022 fuel economy targets. This adjustment alleviates past financial compliance burdens.car-importers.org.il
• Tariff Agreements Advancing: The US struck framework agreements with Japan and the EU in July, setting a 15% tariff benchmark for many vehicles and parts. The phased implementation will significantly influence import cost and pricing strategies.Reuters+1

Japan / EU

• Although few regulations were finalized in July, the US-Japan and US-EU tariff frameworks reshaped near-term trade policy trajectories. OEMs should closely monitor implementation schedules and associated rules.Reuters+1

Korea (KR)

• US Port Fee Appeal: On July 7, Korean auto industry groups petitioned the US for relief from port fees on foreign-built vehicle carriers, arguing that the charge would substantially escalate costs for imported vehicles.Reuters

China / Export Regulation

• Proposed EV Export Permit Regime: Reports suggest that China intends to require export permits for electric vehicles starting in 2026, to better control export standards and order.AP News
• Meanwhile, domestic regulatory tightening in China—over advertising claims (e.g. banning “autonomous driving” terms), OTA controls, and ADAS function naming—continues to raise compliance pressure, although few July-specific regulations were newly published.