Senior officials in the Trump administration on Friday criticised Canada’s decision to allow a limited number of Chinese electric vehicles into its market, warning that the move risks increasing Beijing’s influence in North America and will not alter U.S. restrictions on Chinese-made cars.
Speaking at a Ford Motor manufacturing plant in Ohio, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said Ottawa would regret the decision. “I think they’ll look back at this decision and surely regret it to bring Chinese cars into their market,” Duffy said.
See also: Canada to Allow Limited Imports of Chinese EVs at Reduced Tariffs Under Deal With Beijing
Canada last year imposed a 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles, mirroring U.S. policy, but has since agreed to allow imports of up to 49,000 vehicles. U.S. officials fear the move could enable Chinese manufacturers to establish supply chains and market presence across the region.
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer sought to reassure U.S. automakers, saying the limited volume would not disrupt American exports. “Those cars are going to Canada — they’re not coming here,” Greer said.
See also: Canada Reportedly Considering Removing 100% Tariff on Chinese Electric Vehicles
Still, Greer described Canada’s decision as “problematic,” arguing that U.S. tariffs are intended to protect domestic workers and consumers. “There’s a reason why we don’t sell a lot of Chinese cars in the United States,” he said.
Greer also pointed to U.S. cybersecurity rules adopted in 2025 covering internet-connected vehicles and navigation systems, saying regulatory barriers would remain even if trade restrictions were eased. “I think it might be hard for the Chinese to comply with those kind of rules,” he said.
Source: Reuters
