Japan's industry ministry says it's already in touch with the US about President Donald Trump's new auto tariffs.

There are concerns Washington will apply the levies to all countries, which would harm Japanese automakers.

Industry minister Muto Yoji said on Tuesday: "We'll carefully assess the details of the tariffs and their impact on Japan. The auto sector is very important to our country, so we're giving this our full attention. The Japanese government has already been communicating with the US on the matter."

Trump said on Friday that the tariffs would take effect "maybe around April 2."

He's yet to specify which countries will be affected or the size of the tariffs, among other details.