Chinese automakers target Canadian market expansion

Several major Chinese automakers are stepping up efforts to expand into the Canadian market, with Geely, Chery, and BYD among those increasing their presence.

The push has been driven by a trade agreement signed several months ago that reduced tariffs on up to 49,000 imported Chinese electric vehicles from 100% to 6.1%, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The quota is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, with only 24,500 permits available in the first six months, prompting companies to act quickly.

BYD said in its April report that it plans to open 20 retail locations in Canada by the end of 2026 and is considering partnerships with local firms, as well as the possibility of building its own factory or acquiring an existing plant.

Chery has already brought two Jaecoo E5 electric SUVs to Toronto temporarily.

The move followed a visit by nearly 20 Canadian dealers to the Beijing Auto Show, where they were introduced to the Chinese automotive market.

Meanwhile, Geely’s Zeekr brand has begun assembling a Canadian team, posting seven job openings in Toronto in late April across sales, legal, marketing, after-sales service, product development, and network expansion roles.

Geely is also seeking a head of network development for Zeekr to evaluate dealer business plans.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov