The tariff level for import of heavy vehicles is even lower at 20 percent, due to low levels of local production and high demand.

An important factor that influences tariff levels is the mix of energy sources used in power generation.

But the official said the administration aimed to set the tariff level high enough to offer relief for the industry.

Japan's tariff level is among the lowest for industrialized countries, including the United States.

According to the Government, which has set the tariff levels, users will earn a return of 12% per annum.

Disagreements about investments and tariff levels led the negotiations to fail.

For political reasons tariffs were increased less than the inflation rate, so that real tariff levels declined between 1988 and 1998.

Average tariff levels fell to about 20% in the region by the end of the 1980s.

The arbitrator's award does not indicate what could be an appropriate tariff level.

Furthermore, tariff levels do not allow for full cost recovery.