Makita makes power tools in Japan... for domestic Japanese customers. Makita power tools in the US (and I suspect elsewhere?) are made in China. Either Japanese customers are more patriotic, or Makita can't compete pricewise with Chinese made power tools in US market.
I live in Europe and most Makita gear I have is Made in Europe (e.g. Czech Republic). I do have an impact driver that is Made in Japan, but I had to order that from Japan.
There's a ton of cheap Chinese tools for sale in Japan. Makita is a nationally-recognized Japanese brand. If you want a quality tool for long-term use, one would often select a made-in-Japan Makita. The higher price is justified by the longer warranty, etc.
