Canadian Chamber statement on Chinese EVs and economic security

Canada’s growing EV sector is at risk of being undermined by Chinese EVs entering our market. We’ve seen China repeatedly and systematically undercut global supply chains and markets through unfair, non-market practices. And the potential for significant cybersecurity vulnerabilities in EVs needs to be better understood and addressed by government with the close involvement of industry partners.

The U.S. and the E.U. have already taken steps to address this issue. After consulting over 20 associations and companies that are deeply engaged on this issue, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce is calling on the government to align with our trading key international partners and introduce a surtax on Chinese EVs, while mitigating the risk of trade retaliation to key Canadian export sectors. The government must also redouble its efforts to bolster long-term North American competitiveness across the EV supply chain.

With our auto-manufacturing sector so highly integrated between Canada and the U.S., it is critical that we demonstrate unity ahead of the 2026 CUSMA review.

Economic security is a pressing concern for Canada and our key trading partners, and the Canadian Chamber feels strongly that this is a lens through which the government must evaluate all threats and opportunities in global trade. More can be done to ensure we are protecting our economic and national interests in the face of shifting and volatile global markets.

Matthew Holmes, Senior Vice President, Policy and Government Relations