Tariffs on Chinese EVs are now in effect. What does that mean for Canadians? – National [Video]

Canada’s increased surtax on Chinese electric vehicles, including some hybrids, went into effect on Tuesday.

The 100 per cent tariff applies to electric and hybrid cars, busses, trucks and pick-up trucks imported from China. A 25 per cent tariff on Chinese streel and aluminum will go into effect on Oct. 15.

In June, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland told reporters the federal government was concerned by “unfair” Chinese trade practices in the electric vehicle manufacturing sector. Freeland announced the start of a consultation process and said the changes could include a surtax on imports of Chinese EVs under Section 53 of the Customs Tariff Act.

In August, speaking at the Liberal cabinet retreat, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the government was going ahead with the tariffs.

The change brings Canada in line with recent U.S. trade policy changes. President Joe Biden announced in mid-May that he was hiking tariffs on Chinese EVs to 100 per cent from 25 per cent this year.