Ottawa Poll Shows 61% Support for Chinese Electric Vehicles Import Increase

Based on coverage from The Star and CHAT News Today.

Canadians Support Chinese Electric Vehicles

A recent Leger poll reveals that a majority of Canadians are in favour of allowing more Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) into the country. This comes after Canada agreed to reduce its tariff on Chinese-made EVs from 100 per cent to 6.1 per cent, with an annual cap of 49,000 vehicles. In return, China is expected to lower its tariffs on Canadian agricultural products. The poll found that 61 per cent of respondents support the decision, with 24 per cent strongly backing it. Support is particularly high in Quebec, where 72 per cent of respondents are in favour.

Concerns Over Quality and Industry Impact

Despite the general support, the poll indicates that three-quarters of Canadians have concerns about the influx of Chinese EVs. The main worries revolve around vehicle quality and durability, as well as the potential impact on the Canadian auto industry. Data security, privacy, and vehicle safety are also significant concerns, along with geopolitical issues related to China. These apprehensions are especially pronounced in Ontario, a hub for vehicle and parts manufacturing.

Privacy and Security Issues Highlighted

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has voiced concerns about the potential for Chinese EVs to spy on Canadian motorists. Privacy Commissioner Philippe Dufresne has informed a House of Commons committee that his office is investigating the types of data collected by connected devices, including cars. This research aims to better understand the privacy implications of the new trade agreement with China.

U.S. Retaliation Concerns Linger

The poll also highlights that nearly two-thirds of Canadians are worried about possible retaliation from the United States if Canada strengthens its trade ties with China. This concern is more pronounced among those opposed to the increase in Chinese EVs, with 71 per cent expressing apprehension. However, 30 per cent of respondents are not worried about U.S. backlash, a figure that Steve Mossop, Leger's executive vice-president for Western Canada, finds noteworthy. He suggests that this number would have been lower six to eight months ago when fears of American tariffs were more prevalent.

Trade Relations with China Remain Divisive

While the poll shows that 57 per cent of Canadians oppose curbing trade with China to avoid U.S. economic retaliation, the issue remains divisive. Opposition to limiting trade with Beijing is stronger among those who support the influx of Chinese EVs and those unconcerned about U.S. tariff threats. The Canadian Research Insights Council notes that online surveys like this one cannot be assigned a margin of error due to the lack of random sampling.

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