On May 12th, according to the Chinese Embassy in Canada, on May 9th, Chinese Ambassador to Canada Wang Di was interviewed by Vassiliki “Vassy” Kapelos, the host of the political talk show “Question Period” on CTV News. The interview section is recorded as follows: “Inquiry Moment”: When you talk about free trade and the importance that Canada and China attach to free trade, it is not completely free trade between the two countries now. Canada imposes tariffs on electric vehicles manufactured in China. China has imposed retaliatory tariffs on agricultural products worth approximately CAD 3 billion from Canada. Has there been any dialogue between the governments of the two countries regarding the cancellation of these tariffs at present? Ambassador Wang Di: Last year, Canada unilaterally imposed unilateral tariffs on China. We have been in communication with the Canadian government, but unfortunately, despite China’s repeated dissuasion, Canada still imposed unilateral tariffs on China. After investigation, China has determined that these tariffs are indeed discriminatory measures against China, so we have taken corresponding countermeasures. I would like to point out that China’s countermeasures are a response to Canada’s unilateral tariffs. If Canada adjusts its measures, China will certainly adjust its measures as well. Inquiry Moment: The Canadian government stated that the initial imposition of tariffs was necessary due to China’s very high government subsidies, which are protectionist measures. My question is, have both parties discussed the cancellation of these tariffs or countermeasures? Since the implementation of these tariffs in October last year, the overall environment has changed considering the situation in the United States. Can you now inform if the federal government has conveyed to you or your colleagues the possibility of lifting tariffs on electric vehicles? Ambassador Wang Di: Now it should be said that the ball is on the Canadian side. The Canadian government has repeatedly expressed to us its desire to communicate on issues between the two sides through dialogue. But recently, various factors such as the federal election and the formation of a new government in Canada have affected further communication. I look forward to holding talks on relevant issues as soon as possible in the near future.
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