Beijing criticizes Canada for imposing tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles

The Chinese government expressed “strong discontent” on Tuesday after Canada announced the imposition of a 100% tariff on imports of electric vehicles manufactured in China, in the name of alleged “unfair competition.”

“China expresses its strong discontent and determined opposition” The Chinese embassy in Canada said in a press release that the country would “take all necessary measures” to protect its companies.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the decision on Monday, following in the footsteps of the United States.

Canada imposes 100% tariffs on electric cars made in China

Trudeau added that the country will go ahead with a 25% tariff on Chinese steel and aluminum.

“Actors like China have chosen to give themselves an unfair advantage in the global marketplace,” the Canadian prime minister was quoted as saying by the Associated Press (AP) news agency.

The decision came just weeks after the United States announced plans to impose higher tariffs on electric vehicles made in China.

U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan encouraged Canada to follow in the footsteps of the world’s largest economy in a meeting with the Canadian prime minister on Sunday.

Earlier this summer, the Canadian government began a consultation with industry and unions to define possible actions in this regard.

Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland had indicated that Canada would act in concert with the United States and the European Union, given that North America has an integrated automotive sector.

Currently, the only electric vehicles manufactured in China and imported into Canada are from Tesla, which is produced at the Elon Musk-owned company’s factory in Shanghai.

Last week, the European Commission proposed revised countervailing duties of up to 36.3% for Chinese electric carmakers in the European Union (EU), also suggesting countervailing duties of 9% for Tesla as an exporter from China.