Higher tariffs on Canadian imports would be ‘catastrophic,’ Honda exec says

CTV News · Reuters Staff · 2026-10-28 11:39 UTC

A pending increase in U.S. tariffs on steel and auto imports from Canada starting Jan. 1 would be “catastrophic” for the industry, Honda Motor’s head of public affairs said on Tuesday.

DETROIT - A pending increase in U.S. tariffs on steel and auto imports from Canada starting Jan. 1 would be “catastrophic” for the industry, Honda Motor’s head of public affairs said on Tuesday.

Automakers are closely watching talks between the U.S., Mexico and Canada, hoping the countries extend a longstanding trade deal. The three countries’ auto industries are tightly intertwined, and higher tariffs could raise costs and affect where companies such as Honda build new plants.

“We need that trilateral agreement to stay in place in order for the U.S. industry to be competitive. It’s integral to our success,” said Jennifer Thomas, senior vice president of corporate affairs for American Honda Motor Co, speaking at the Reuters Automotive USA conference in Detroit.

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