![[FILE] People work in BYD electric cars factory in Changzhou, Jiangsu Province, China, 14 November 2023. EFE/EPA/ALEX PLAVEVSKI](https://i0.wp.com/efe.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/rss-efe73033d31806d6615af35094ef911d433c850ef0aw.jpg?fit=1920%2C1281&ssl=1)
Beijing, Aug 27 (EFE).- China on Tuesday criticized Canada’s decision to impose a 100 percent tariff on Chinese electric vehicles, saying it «undermines economic and trade relations» between the two countries and «endangers the interests of Canadian companies and consumers.»
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said at a press conference that Ottawa’s decision «ignores objective facts,» «overlooks World Trade Organization (WTO) rules,» and «contradicts historical trends.»
Lin said the move «does not contribute to Canada’s green transformation process or to global efforts to combat climate change.»
«China expresses its dissatisfaction and firm opposition,» Lin said, noting that the Chinese electric vehicle industry «relies on technological innovation» and «market competition for its development.»
Lin also urged Canada «not to politicize economic and trade issues,» and warned that China «will take all necessary measures to firmly protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies.»
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday that Canada will impose a 100 percent tariff on imports of Chinese electric vehicles, along with a 25 percent tariff on steel and aluminum from China.
These tariffs align with those already imposed by the United States and were announced shortly after Jake Sullivan, national security adviser to US President Joe Biden, met with Trudeau and other Canadian government officials.
Canada’s tariff on Chinese electric vehicles is set to take effect on October 1. Trudeau defended the decision, stating that China’s industrial policies are subsidizing its companies to the detriment of their Western competitors. EFE
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