Japanese auto makers say CUSMA critical. Does Carney understand?

In this video we examine the critical role of CUSMA in Canada’s auto industry through two contrasting moments. First, the Japanese Ambassador to Canada, speaking to Vassy Kapelos, makes clear that CUSMA access to the United States market is essential for Japanese automakers operating in Canada. Toyota and Honda together produced approximately 950,000 vehicles in Canada in 2025 — accounting for 77% of total auto manufacturing in the country — with 700,000 to 800,000 of those vehicles exported to the United States. The ambassador’s statement underscores a simple reality: Canada is not a significant standalone market for these manufacturers; production here is overwhelmingly driven by seamless access to the U.S. consumer base. We then contrast this with Mark Carney’s recent responses to reporters in Japan, where his answers on the importance of CUSMA appear vague and inconsistent, failing to address the economic stakes head-on. The segment highlights the disconnect between diplomatic messaging and the practical dependence of Canada’s auto sector on stable U.S. trade access under CUSMA. Did you understand Mark Carney's answer? Let us know in the comments. The Really Big Show: The thinking Canadian's daily briefing, independent and informed. Live every weekday at 9AM PST. Now streaming on Rumble, Spotify, Apple and more. Find out more here https://thereallybigshow.ca We tell real Canadian stories, the ones you won't hear in the mainstream. Become a member and support independent media. Help us spread the word - subscribe, share, comment. NowMedia: free from political influence. Committed to the truth.