Doug Ford and Mark Carney clash over Chinese EV deal

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said he was 'disappointed' after Prime Minister Mark Carney agreed to allow up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles into Canada at a reduced tariff, and Ford said he learned of the agreement only hours before it was made public.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed disappointment after Prime Minister Mark Carney travelled to China with Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe and reached an agreement affecting imports of Chinese electric vehicles. The deal, reported as allowing up to 49,000 Chinese EVs into Canada at a tariff of 6.1 per cent (down from 100 per cent), was linked to Beijing reducing counter-tariffs on Canadian canola and seafood. Ford said he learned of the agreement only hours before it was publicly announced and complained about a lack of direct communication despite past close interactions with the prime minister. The article notes past meetings and private breakfasts between the two leaders and comments from other politicians urging them to repair relations. Key details: - The reported agreement would allow up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles into Canada at a tariff of 6.1 per cent, reduced from a previous 100 per cent rate. - The concession to China was reported as tied to Beijing cutting counter-tariffs on Canadian canola and seafood. - Premier Doug Ford said he learned of the agreement hours before public release, and said he was "disappointed" at the lack of communication from the prime minister. - Officials said Ford values personal relationships and noted prior private meetings between Ford and Carney, including time at a Muskoka cottage and a private breakfast in Etobicoke. - Former federal Conservative minister Lisa Raitt was quoted urging the leaders to smooth relations so they can work together on other national matters. Summary: The disagreement has introduced visible strain between two leaders who have worked closely in the past. Both are scheduled to attend a first ministers' meeting next Wednesday in Ottawa. Undetermined at this time.