The Canadian government announced on Monday, August 26, that the country would impose a 100% surtax starting August 1. October on imports of Chinese electric vehicles, accusing Beijing of “unfair competition.” An announcement that follows an identical announcement by the United States in May and that of the European Union (EU) which imposed customs tariffs of up to 38% in July.
“China does not play by the same rules as other countries”Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made this statement at a press conference in Halifax. Ottawa will also impose a 25% surtax on imports of Chinese steel and aluminum starting October 15.
Faced with the “challenges” demanded by Chinese producers “who benefit from unfair and market-breaking policies and practices,” Canada is acting “in concert with other economies around the world,” the Prime Minister continued.
“We must defend Canadian jobs and interests”
This new war of words comes in a context of growing trade tensions between the West and China, which is also accused of destroying competition in other sectors: wind turbines, solar panels, batteries, etc.
The Canadian surtax will target cars, trucks, buses, as well as electric delivery vans and certain hybrid models. “We must defend Canadian jobs and interests,” insisted Justin Trudeau.
In recent years, Canada has made considerable efforts to attract players in the electric vehicle sector, touting its tax advantages, clean energy and significant rare earth resources. China recently took the matter to the World Trade Organization after the EU imposed customs duties in July.
This article is originally published on nouvelles-dujour.com
