Minister suggests Canada is considering tariffs on Chinese EVs following U.S. move

Canada's industry minister says Ottawa is «considering all measures» after the U.S. announced it would be hiking tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and other related goods.

François-Philippe Champagne wouldn't rule out Canada imposing similar tariffs during an interview with CBC News Network's on Friday.

«It's fair to say that everything is on the table to protect our industry and our workers,» Champagne told host David Cochrane.

«We're working in sync with the United States of America.»

President Joe Biden announced earlier this week that the U.S. would be slapping new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs), advanced batteries, solar cells, steel, aluminum and medical equipment.

The tariffs are to be phased in over the next three years; those that take effect in 2024 are covering EVs, solar cells, syringes, needles, steel and aluminum and more.

There are currently very few EVs from China in the U.S., but American officials worry that low-priced models made possible by Chinese government subsidies could soon start flooding the U.S. market.

In a separate interview on Tuesday, Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association, said «Canada has to» implement similar trade levies.

«Now that the Americans have put up a tariff wall, we can't leave the side door open here,» Volpe told guest host John Paul Tasker.

Brian Kingston, president of the Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association, echoed Volpe's argument in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

«Canada cannot be out of step with the U.S. on China. We need aligned policies that strengthen the North American auto supply chain,» he wrote.

Champagne insisted that Canada wouldn't be a route for China to gain access to the North American EV market.

«Canada has