Chinese EVs inch closer to the US as Canada slashes tariffs

Chinese EVs inch closer to the US as Canada slashes tariffs

Chinese EVs Edge Toward U.S. Market as Canada Cuts Tariffs Could Chinese electric vehicles soon be driving on American roads? While the U.S. maintains steep import barriers, a major shift just north of the border is changing the game. Canada has slashed its 100% tariff on Chinese EVs to just 6.1%, opening a strategic backdoor into North America for automakers like BYD, Geely, and Xiaomi. The move signals growing global momentum for Chinese EVs—even as Washington holds firm on national security concerns. Credit: Google Canada’s Calculated Opening In a surprise announcement on January 16, 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney revealed the dramatic tariff reduction, effective immediately. But Ottawa isn’t throwing open the floodgates: imports will be capped at 49,000 Chinese EVs annually, with a gradual increase to around 70,000 over five years. This measured approach aims to balance consumer demand with domestic industry protection. The policy shift reflects Canada’s recognition of Chine…