Magna expresses concern for auto industry over protectionist trade measures

AURORA, ON — Magna International expressed some industry concerns in its latest quarterly report. The Canadian auto parts giant cited the rise of protectionist trade measures in the Trump era as a key risk to the auto industry.

According to chief executive Don Walker, any border adjustment tax imposed by the United States would be negative for the industry, but noted it’s still too early to tell what’s going to happen.

“The industry as a whole is trying to get all the facts to the right people so at least they understand what the impact might be,” he said during a conference call with financial analysts.

“I think it will be quite a while before we really understand what the changes might be, what the impact would be, and nothing happens overnight. But we are very closely watching and having involvement in any discussions.”

Magna, based in Aurora, Ont., has operations in 29 countries including the U.S. and Mexico.

In identifying some of its more significant risks in its quarterly financial report, the global supplier said the auto industry is dependent on open borders, particularly in Europe and North America.

“The continued growth of protectionist sentiments and implementation of measures which impede the free movement of goods, services, people and capital could have a material adverse effect on our operations, profitability or results of operations,” the company said.

U.S. President Donald Trump has said he wants changes to the North American Free Trade Agreement, complained about automakers shifting production to Mexico, and raised the possibility of tariffs. He has also pulled the country from participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership.

The moves in the U.S. come amid rumblings in Europe where Marine Le Pen and her National Front are campaigning on promises to get France out the euro and the European Union.

“Looking forward, as the industry undergoes significant changes over the next number of years, we believe our capabilities, innovations and deep vehicle knowledge will be instrumental in enabling the ‘Car of the Future’,” explains Walker. “This should drive significant shareholder value.”

Magna said its profit for the last three months of 2016 amounted to US$478 million or US$1.24 per diluted share, slightly up from a profit of US$476 million or US$1.17 per diluted share in the same period a year earlier.

Sales in the quarter totalled US$9.25 billion, up from US$8.57 billion.

The company also raised its quarterly dividend to 27.5 cents per share from 25 cents per share.

www.magna.com