Over 60% of Canadians Back Chinese EV Imports, Driven by Trade Diversification and Economic Realities

A recent poll shows that 61% of Canadians support allowing more Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) into the domestic market, with support reaching as high as 72% in Quebec. This shift stems from multiple factors: on one hand, Canada is advancing a trade diversification strategy aimed at doubling exports to countries other than the U.S. by 2035; on the other, amid U.S.-China trade tensions, Canada seeks to reduce its reliance on the American market. Under a new agreement between China and Canada, an annual quota of 49,000 Chinese EVs will be granted, subject only to a 6.1% tariff within the quota—a figure set to increase annually. In return, China will lower tariffs on Canadian agricultural products such as canola seeds, expected to generate nearly $3 billion in export orders for Canada’s agriculture and fisheries sectors. Despite broad public support, three-quarters of respondents still express concerns over vehicle quality, data security, and potential negative impacts on Canada’s domestic auto industry—particularly in Ontario, a major hub for automotive manufacturing.