The hint arrives after a period of friction between the automaker and Ottawa. Last month, Honda officially shelved an $11 billion electric-vehicle supply chain project, citing shifting market conditions and a misalignment between Canadian industrial policy and broader trade goals. Dave Jamieson, CEO of Honda Canada, previously warned that regulatory instability and trade tensions had compromised the country’s competitive advantage, casting doubt on the future of capital-intensive investments.

Despite these headwinds, the Alliston plant remains a cornerstone of the regional economy, producing approximately 400,000 vehicles annually. The government is currently navigating high-stakes negotiations regarding the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade treaty, with Canadian officials pushing for relief on potential 25% tariffs on U.S.-bound exports. Jamieson has characterized the preservation of the current trade framework as essential for the long-term viability of the domestic automotive sector.