Asian markets rise as Trump hints at easing auto tariffs

Asian markets edged higher on Tuesday, lifted by gains in auto stocks after US President Donald Trump suggested he might ease tariffs on vehicles.

Asian stock markets edged up on Tuesday (15 April), supported by a surge in auto stocks after US President Donald Trump hinted at a possible easing of tariffs on vehicles.

In South Korea, the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index (KOSPI) opened 0.35% higher at 2,464.51 points. In Tokyo, Japan’s Nikkei share average rose 1.1% at the opening, reaching 34,349.01 points.

Chinese stocks opened mixed, with the Shanghai Composite Index down 0.07% at 3,260.68 points, while the Shenzhen Component Index gained 0.02% to open at 9,886.1 points.

Global markets have been volatile over the past week following Trump’s shifting statements on tariffs. Over the weekend, the United States exempted smartphones and computers from new “reciprocal” tariffs, though Trump warned that levies would be introduced eventually. This move followed a 90-day postponement of most global tariffs.

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