GM CEO Warns: Canada's Easing of Chinese EV Imports Threatens North American Manufacturing

General Motors CEO Mary Barra recently criticized Canada's newly struck agreement with China on electric vehicle (EV) imports, warning it would jeopardize North American manufacturing and jobs. Under the deal, Canada can import up to 49,000 Chinese-made EVs annually, with tariffs slashed from 100% to just 6.1%, and at least half of these vehicles must be priced below CAD 35,000 by 2030. Barra argued that this move contradicts efforts to strengthen North America’s industrial base and national security, expressing concern it could trigger a domino effect. Although Canadian officials emphasized that the imported vehicles would meet safety standards aligned with those of the United States—potentially paving the way for entry into the U.S. market—Barra warned it would undermine the competitiveness of domestic supply chains. Notably, GM has been gradually scaling back its Canadian production in recent years, including ending its BrightDrop program in 2025 and discontinuing night shifts at its Oshawa plant in 2026. Some media outlets have pointed out that Barra’s criticism should be viewed in the context of GM’s own retreat from investments in Canada.