Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard confirmed that Honda has no plans to abandon or modify its production operations in Mexican territory, despite recent international reports suggesting otherwise.

The federal official used the social network X (formerly Twitter) to clarify rumors circulating after a report by Japanese outlet Nikkei, which claimed that the Japanese automaker was considering moving part of its production from Mexico and Canada to the United States.

Ebrard wrote verbatim:

“I’ve been asked about a report circulating regarding the automaker Honda. I can inform you that their executives in our country have confirmed there is no change whatsoever to their production plans in Mexico. Kind regards.”

Back in February, Honda had already denied any plans to reduce investment in Mexico, following media speculation that assembling the Civic model in the U.S. could mark the beginning of the brand’s exit.

Goodbye Honda? This is how the exit rumor started

According to the Nikkei report, Honda Motor is considering moving part of its production from Mexico and Canada to the United States, a strategy that would allow 90% of its vehicles sold in the U.S. market to be assembled locally. This move responds to the 25% tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump on imported cars not made in the U.S.

Although the Asian media outlet did not cite official sources, it stated that such a change could increase Honda’s production in the U.S. by up to 30% over the next two to three years.

The trade relationship between the United States, Mexico, and Canada has evolved significantly in recent years. With the entry into force of the USMCA, many manufacturers have had to adapt to new regional content rules to avoid tariffs. However, the Trump administration imposed duties that would directly impact vehicles manufactured outside the U.S.

In this context, Honda may be reviewing its manufacturing strategy, but —according to official statements— there are no definitive decisions involving its operations in Mexico at this time.

Honda in Canada

The rumor pointed to the Alliston plant in Ontario, which currently produces the Civic and CR-V models and employs around 4,200 people, as one that could be affected if the company goes through with relocating operations to the United States.

Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne stated that his government will seek answers directly from Honda in Japan:

“We will discuss this information with Honda, but at this time there is no confirmation of changes in the Japanese manufacturer’s production in Canada.”

Thanks to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the three countries enjoy tariff benefits as long as products meet regional content requirements. This agreement has been key for automakers like Honda to maintain competitive operations in Mexico.

However, the tariffs imposed by Trump could still apply if the vehicles do not comply with new regulations or if treaty benefits are temporarily suspended — an issue still under discussion for certain auto components.

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