Since the inauguration of Trump’s second term, U.S. trade policy has triggered profound changes in the global trading order. The United States, prioritizing the prevention of illegal immigration and drug trafficking as matters of national security, has implemented stringent trade measures such as the imposition of high tariffs and the renegotiation of bilateral agreements. These policies have amplified uncertainty across the external environment of Latin America, including Mexico and Brazil. The recent U.S. decision to impose a 50 percent retaliatory tariff on Brazilian products starkly illustrates the vulnerability of Latin American trade to policy volatility. Against this backdrop, the upcoming USMCA renegotiation in July 2026 is likely to become another critical variable for the region’s external relations and supply chain configuration.

Despite the rising geopolitical and geoeconomic importance of Latin America, the region remains relatively marginal within Korea’s trade strategy. Yet, the ascent of the Global South, the restructuring of supply chains, and the diversification of trade partners underscore Latin America’s growing strategic value and the urgency for Korea to pursue proactive and long-term policy responses.

In this context, Japan’s experience in Latin America provides meaningful insights for Korea. Japan has consolidated its presence by focusing on traditional manufacturing sectors such as automobiles, machinery, and chemicals, establishing dual hubs in Mexico and Brazil while simultaneously diversifying into markets such as Argentina and Chile. Japanese firms have strengthened localization strategies by responding proactively to policy changes, including Brazil’s “Mover” program and Mexico’s environmental regulations. In the resource sector, Japan has sought stable access to critical minerals such as lithium and copper through close government–business collaboration, supported by financial and policy instruments that helped mitigate risks.

This study investigates Japan’s industry- and period-specific entry cases and government support policies to derive policy implications for Korea’s Latin America strategy. The key recommendations are as follows:
First, strengthen government–business linkages to institutionalize supply chain restructuring support.

Second, emphasize reference-building at the initial stage of entry to establish a foundation for long-term growth.

Third, respond proactively to environmental and regulatory changes to build trust with local governments and turn compliance into a source of competitive advantage.

Fourth, maintain a Brazil–Mexico-centered strategy while expanding into Argentina, Chile, and Colombia to diversify regional risks.

Fifth, explore opportunities for joint ventures with Japan, particularly in strategic sectors such as minerals.

In sum, Japan’s experience highlights essential lessons for Korea to achieve stable and sustainable outcomes in Latin America under conditions of global trade uncertainty. Rather than merely replicating Japan’s approach, Korea should design tailored strategies that reflect the specific characteristics of Korean firms and the diverse demands of Latin American economies.

국문요약

제1장 서론

제2장 일본기업의 산업별 대중남미 진출 사례
1. 개관
2. 주요 산업별 진출 사례
3. 소결

제3장 트럼프 2기 정부에서 일본의 민관 대응 사례
1. 트럼프 2기의 대중남미 정책
2. 일본정부의 대응
3. 일본기업의 대응

제4장 결론 및 제언
1. 연구 요약
2. 한국의 대중남미 진출 사례
3. 대중남미 진출 및 협력에 관한 제언

참고문헌

Executive Summary