Japan Silent over Toyota Fine

The biggest fine handed to an automaker in the United States, the one NHTSA is poised to give Toyota, has not stirred much commotion in Toyota's home country, Japan. The country's officials seem to want to stay out of the matter, as they deem the problem to be out of their jurisdiction.

The fine is "based on laws in the United States, and therefore it is difficult for the Japanese government to make any direct comment," Masayuki Naoshima, Japanese economy, trade and industry minister was quoted as saying by just-auto.com.

Japan's reaction to the fine is important as the carmaker experienced similar acceleration and brake problems in its home land as well. In fact, Toyota got severely criticized by some Japanese government representatives for the manner in which they handled the recalls.

"The point is whether Toyota can recover consumers' trust in the safety," added Naoshima, who was backed by Seiji Maehara, minister of land, infrastructure, transport and tourism.

''I hope that Toyota will take safety matters seriously and live up to its global reputation.''

The NHTSA decided earlier this week, based on "proof that Toyota failed to live up to its legal obligations" to fine the carmaker a record $16.4 million. Toyota has until April 19 to respond in writing, with NHTSA saying the carmaker will be taken to court and forced to pay should it raise objections.

Toyota's reply so far was limited at only reiterating the steps taken to fix the issues.