Former Nissan CEO Ghosn Questions Honda-Nissan Merger

TOKYO (Reuters) – Former Nissan chief executive Carlos Ghosn expressed skepticism about a potential merger between Honda and Nissan, stating at a press conference on Monday that the plans "do not make sense."

Two sources informed Reuters that Honda and Nissan are set to begin business integration talks as the automakers aim to navigate the rapidly changing automotive industry.

Ghosn noted, "From an industrial point of view, there is duplication everywhere" between the two companies. He emphasized that a successful merger requires complementarity, which he claims does not exist between Honda and Nissan.

He added, "If this merger takes place… personally I don't think it's going to be successful," while addressing the press online from Lebanon, where he currently resides.

Ghosn fled Japan in December 2019 while awaiting trial for allegations of under-reporting earnings, breach of trust, and misappropriating company funds.