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Mazda Halts SUV Production at Alabama Factory as of May 12 Due to Trump Tariffs
April 30, 2025
Mazda has announced that it is halting some production of a popular SUV that is manufactured at its plants in Huntsville, Alabama, as of May 12. The decision was made due to the volatile “Trump tariffs” that have threatened the economic certainty of the auto industry.
AL.com is reporting that Mazda has stated that it will temporarily cease some manufacturing of its CX-50 SUV in Alabama in reaction to the Trump administration’s car tariffs.
However, the Japanese luxury automaker stated that its overall manufacturing volume at the Huntsville plant will not be adjusted. According to many sources, a production pause at the company’s joint manufacturing site with Toyota will begin on May 12.
The stoppage will allegedly only affect cars intended for the Canadian market, with the auto manufacturer continuing to produce the CX-50 for other markets.
“As Mazda’s only vehicle assembly plant in the United States, we intend to utilize MTM to the fullest to support the growth of our business,” a statement from Mazda reads, per the outlet. “We will continue to monitor the situation, including government negotiations, market trends, and policy developments, and will consider flexible and appropriate responses accordingly.”
Canada responded with retaliatory tariffs after Trump imposed 25% tariffs on imported automobiles and parts. According to analysts, if tariff rules do not change, the auto manufacturer may hike the price of the CX-50 in Canada to cover costs or pull the model from the market.
Mazda Isn’t the Only Company Affected by the So-Called ‘Trump Tariffs’
Mazda is just the latest company to feel the effects of the volatile Trump tariffs.
Temu and SHEIN have responded by raising prices and imposing taxes, but Amazon is reportedly pressing sellers instead. According to the Financial Times, the world’s largest online retailer has asked merchants to lower prices in a variety of categories, including electronics and housewares.
Three vendor consultants, who negotiate on behalf of sellers and suppliers, have apparently provided insider information regarding Amazon’s techniques. According to them, the company is exerting pressure on suppliers whose items are sourced from China, which are currently subject to 145% tariffs upon entering the United States.
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