Chinese EVs in Canada: Most of the 2026 Quota Is Unused

Quick answer: Canada lets up to 49,000 EVs made in China into the country each year at a 6.1% tariff. The latest government report, updated October 30, 2026, shows only 16,206 spots used and zero imports in October. So far, far fewer Chinese EVs have reached Canada than the deal allows.

Key takeaways

• The quota allows 49,000 EVs from China a year at a 6.1% tariff.
• The old 100% surtax on these EVs was repealed when the quota began.
• Only 16,206 spots were used by October 30, 2026. That leaves 32,794.
• The latest Global Affairs Canada report shows zero imports for October.
• Ottawa says half the quota will be for EVs under $35,000 by 2030.

What the Canada and China EV Deal Says

On January 16, 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a new partnership with China. As part of it, Canada will allow up to 49,000 EVs made in China into the market each year. These cars pay the normal 6.1% tariff.

Ottawa says this matches import levels from 2023 and 2024. It also says this is less than 3% of new vehicles sold in Canada each year.

How Canada's Chinese EV Import Quota Works in 2026

The quota started on March 1, 2026. On that day, the 100% surtax on EVs from China was repealed for cars inside the quota.

The quota year runs from March 1 to the end of February. Each shipment needs an import permit from Global Affairs Canada. The first six months had room for 24,500 vehicles. The second half gets 24,500 more, plus any spots left over.

How Many Chinese EVs Have Come Into Canada So Far

Global Affairs Canada posts a public report on the quota. Its report updated on October 30, 2026, shows:

• Total quota: 49,000
• Used: 16,206
• Left: 32,794

The first six months used 15,603 spots. July and August were the busiest months. Since September 1, only 603 spots have been used. October shows zero.

What This Means for Canadian EV Buyers Right Now

The deal does not mean a wave of cheap EVs is at dealers today. Most of the yearly quota is still unused. If you need a new EV this winter, plan with the models you can buy and price now.

Also look at rebates in your province. Our guide to EV rebates in Canada by province has the latest amounts. If price is your main worry, read how U.S. tariffs could push up Canadian car prices.

Will Cheaper Chinese EVs Come to Canada Later

Ottawa says a share of the quota will be kept for EVs with an import price of $35,000 or less. That share will reach 50% by 2030. The government also says it will work with Chinese automakers so their cars meet Canadian safety standards.

FAQ

How many Chinese EVs can come into Canada each year?

Up to 49,000. The quota year runs from March 1 to the end of February.

What tariff do Chinese EVs pay in Canada?

Cars inside the quota pay the 6.1% tariff. The old 100% surtax was repealed when the quota began.

How much of the quota has been used?

16,206 spots were used as of October 30, 2026. That leaves 32,794 for the rest of the quota year.

Will cheaper Chinese EVs come to Canada?

Ottawa says half the quota will be for EVs with an import price of $35,000 or less by 2030.

Where can I check how much of the quota is used?

Global Affairs Canada posts a public report on the quota. It was last updated on October 30, 2026.