China slams Canada for its 25% tariff plan on Chinese aluminium and steel

According to a report, China has denounced Canada's proposed tariffs on Chinese aluminium, steel, and electric vehicles. A spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Canada said Canada's tariff plans reflect a typical act of trade protectionism and political dominance.

The spokesperson cautioned that imposing tariffs on Chinese goods would disrupt Canada's economic structure and damage trade cooperation between China and Canada. The move would also harm the interests of Canada's consumers and enterprises and interrupt the North American country's efforts towards green transformation.

On August 26, the Canadian Government declared its plan to imitate the United States 25 per cent tariffs on China-origin aluminium and steel and 100 per cent on electric vehicles, intending to address unfair trade practices caused by the influx of cheap Chinese goods.

The United States levied these additional tariffs in May 2024, and now Canada is mulling over replicating the same with effect from October.

Chinese spokesperson stressed that Chinese electric vehicles do not rely on subsidies for competitive advantage, so Canada's accusation of China's so-called overcapacity holds no ground. China has urged the Canadian Government to focus on actuality and reconsider their decision while assuring that it will take all necessary measures to protect the rights and interests of Chinese enterprises.