Canadians are sharply divided on whether they would consider purchasing Chinese-made electric vehicles, according to a recent reader poll conducted amid growing debate over Canada’s evolving trade relationship with China and the future of the domestic auto sector.
The discussion follows a recently announced agreement under which Canada will allow up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles to enter the country at a reduced tariff rate of 6.1 per cent. As part of the arrangement, at least half of those vehicles must be priced below $35,000 by 2030, a move the federal government says is aimed at improving affordability and accelerating EV adoption.
In return, China has agreed to drop or significantly reduce retaliatory tariffs on key Canadian agricultural exports, including canola, pork, seafood and peas — sectors that have faced mounting pressure in recent years.
However, the deal has sparked concern at a time when Canada’s auto industry is already under strain. The recent elimination of an overnight shift at General Motors’ Oshawa Assembly Plant, resulting in the loss of approximately 700 jobs, has intensified fears about the impact of increased foreign competition on Canadian manufacturing.
Critics, including Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Unifor national president Lana Payne, have warned that allowing heavily subsidized Chinese automakers into the Canadian market could undermine domestic production and put thousands of auto-sector jobs at risk.
A poll conducted among readers over the past month reflects this divide. Of the 7,505 respondents, 45.9 per cent said they would not consider buying a Chinese-built electric vehicle, citing concerns about fairness to Canada’s domestic auto industry. Meanwhile, 41 per cent said they would consider purchasing one, particularly if the vehicles are significantly more affordable. Another 13.1 per cent said they remain undecided.
While the federal government has emphasized affordability and trade balance as key objectives of the agreement, questions remain about timing. There is currently no confirmed schedule for when Chinese electric vehicles could begin arriving in Canada, though industry experts suggest shipments could reach Canadian ports within weeks once regulatory approvals are finalized.
The poll reflects the opinions of participating readers and is not considered statistically representative of the broader population. Nevertheless, it highlights the growing tension between affordability, trade diversification, and the protection of Canada’s auto manufacturing base — an issue likely to remain central as the country navigates shifting global trade dynamics.