Hyundai Motor posted weaker first-quarter earnings as sluggish global vehicle sales took their toll on the South Korean automaker. Global vehicle sales fell 2.5% in the period, though the U.S. and India markets bucked the broader downtrend. The company's shares (005380) slipped 1.85% following the earnings release.

The profit decline came despite a trade deal between Seoul and Washington that lowered U.S. tariffs on most Korean exports to 15% from November. The tariff hit eased but remained significant in the first three months of 2026, continuing to weigh on the carmaker despite the reduction from earlier duty levels.

The mixed regional performance highlights how the tariff relief has yet to fully restore Hyundai's profitability. While the U.S. and India provided bright spots, the overall sales contraction underscores the ongoing challenges facing the automaker in a volatile global trade environment.