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Trump’s auto tariffs are set to hit Ontario next week, but the U.S. is still unclear on details

The new tariff framework, set to take effect on April 2, will impose a 25-per-cent levy on vehicles based on their non-U.S. content. While full details remain unclear, Ontario officials believe adjustments could be made regarding the level of U.S. content required to avoid the tariff, potentially giving Canadian manufacturers a competitive edge over other foreign automakers.

Published Mar 27, 2025 at 8:02pm

Barbara Patrocinio

Trump’s auto tariffs are set to hit Ontario next week, but the U.S. is still unclear on details

FMM 20250321 Ontario Premier Doug Ford speaks with media before at a First Ministers Meeting at the National War Museum Friday, March 21, 2025 in Ottawa. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

Premier Doug Ford is grappling with the latest trade shock from the United States after President Donald Trump announced tariffs on Canada’s auto sector.

Ford confirmed he had a call with the U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick on Wednesday — hours after the tariff announcement. The call was to explain how the tariffs would work when they take effect on April 2.

Ford said the discussion focused on the impact of the tariffs on Ontario’s auto manufacturing sector and the intricacies of the integrated North American supply chain. Despite efforts to understand the policy, Ford said Lutnick himself seemed uncertain about key details.

Trump’s auto tariffs are set to hit Ontario next week, but the U.S. is still unclear on details

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