Chinese Ambassador Urges Job Growth in Canada with EV Partnership

UPDATE: In a bold push for collaboration, Chinese Ambassador to Canada Wang Di announced that China aims to partner with Canadian autoworkers to create jobs and lower car prices through electric vehicle (EV) initiatives. This statement comes amidst growing criticism of Canada’s recent agreement to import a limited number of Chinese EVs.

During a press briefing in Ottawa on January 23, 2026, Wang emphasized the mutual benefits of this partnership, stating, “Only win-win cooperation can last.” The agreement, signed last week by Prime Minister Mark Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping, allows for an annual quota of up to 49,000 Chinese EVs to enter Canada at a reduced tariff rate of 6.1%. Notably, half of these vehicles must be priced under $35,000 by 2030.

The deal has sparked significant debate, as critics warn it could flood the Canadian market with cheaper vehicles, undermining local manufacturers. Ontario Premier Doug Ford labeled the agreement a “lopsided deal,” fearing it could jeopardize access to the vital U.S. market for Canadian automakers.

Unifor union president Lana Payne also voiced concerns, calling the agreement a “self-inflicted wound” that would allow China to dominate the market, as seen in other regions. However, Wang reassured workers that this initiative aims to bolster Canada’s manufacturing sector, promoting local investment and job creation.

Wang stated, “China encourages and supports Chinese companies to invest and establish operations in Canada.” He urged that this partnership must be built on fairness and a non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese enterprises.

A senior government source indicated that Ottawa views the agreement not as a threat, but as part of a broader strategy to encourage Chinese EV manufacturing in Canada. Wang echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the collaboration could yield substantial benefits for both nations.

Critics, however, remain skeptical. Experts like Margaret McCuaig-Johnston from the China Strategic Risks Institute caution against China’s heavy subsidies that could lead to a surplus of low-cost vehicles, potentially destabilizing the market. Concerns about data privacy and surveillance linked to Chinese technology embedded in EVs also loom large.

During an online panel discussion by the Institute for Peace and Diplomacy, Wenran Jiang, head of the Canada-China Energy and Environment Forum, suggested that leveraging regional capabilities could enhance Canada’s position in the market. He pointed to Magna International, a Canadian auto parts leader, which successfully collaborates with a Chinese automaker in Austria, showcasing a model for potential success in Ontario.

As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the Canadian government’s next steps and the response from local industries. The urgency of securing a competitive edge in the evolving EV market has never been more critical for Canada.

Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.