The US criticized Canada's deal with China on electric vehicles

U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the agreement reached between Prime Minister Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping on trade issues. According to him, this is normal practice, and if there's an opportunity to make a deal with China, you should take advantage of it.

Criticism of Canada's Decision on Chinese Electric Vehicles

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer expressed concern over the Canadian government's decision to allow the import of up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles at a reduced tariff rate. In an interview with CNBC, he called this decision problematic for Canada.

Greer emphasized that the United States is intentionally limiting the sale of Chinese cars in its market through tariffs to protect American automakers and consumers from these products.

Long-term Consequences of the Deal

According to the trade representative, Canada was seeking to obtain reduced agricultural tariffs as part of the electric vehicle agreement. However, Greer is confident that in the long run, the Canadian side will regret making this deal.

Barriers for Chinese Cars in the U.S.

Greer noted that rules adopted in January 2025 regarding internet-connected vehicles and navigation systems create significant obstacles for Chinese cars in the American market. He pointed to existing U.S. regulations and rules in the area of vehicle cybersecurity and the systems installed in them, compliance with which may prove difficult for Chinese manufacturers.

Trump's Position on Chinese Factories

Earlier this week, President Trump repeated statements he made during the 2024 campaign in Detroit. He said he would welcome Chinese automakers coming to the United States to build factories. In a speech at the Detroit Economic Club meeting on January 13, Trump emphasized that if Chinese companies want to build facilities and create jobs for Americans, that would be wonderful.