Prime Minister Mark Carney says Stellantis has assured him it has future production plans for its Brampton assembly plant, which was shuttered earlier this year amid trade and tariff uncertainty. Speaking to reporters in Toronto on Thursday, Carney said he spoke directly with the global head of Stellantis earlier this week, ahead of the company’s announcement that it will shift production of the Jeep Compass from Brampton to Illinois.
“They’re looking at a different model being produced in Brampton,” Carney said, noting that the decision will hinge on the outcome of ongoing USMCA (or CUSMA) trade negotiations.
Stellantis has also pledged to support affected workers, including offering opportunities to transfer to Windsor, where the company is adding a new production shift. Carney emphasized that the federal government is prepared to hold Stellantis legally accountable if it fails to honour its commitments to build vehicles and batteries in Canada.
“There is exposure of the company if they were not to follow through with those commitments for Brampton — restarting Brampton, the employment in Brampton, related commitments to their Windsor activities,” he warned.
While Carney did not directly address the letter Industry Minister Mélanie Joly sent to Stellantis executives outlining Canada’s expectations, his remarks signaled a firm stance on ensuring the company’s obligations are met.
The press conference came just hours before Carney’s scheduled meeting with Ontario Premier Doug Ford. The two are expected to discuss tariffs, the auto sector, U.S. trade negotiations, and manufacturing. Ford has called for a tougher stance toward U.S. President Donald Trump, but Carney said the current moment calls for diplomacy. “There’s times to hit back, and there’s times to talk. Right now is the time to talk,” he said.