Chinese EV influx into Canada reportedly raises national security, data privacy concerns – ANI News

Chinese EV influx into Canada reportedly raises national security, data privacy concerns  ANI News

Canada’s move to cut tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles has raised national security and cybersecurity concerns. Experts warn that connected Chinese EVs could collect sensitive data through cameras, microphones and location systems, potentially posing risks to critical infrastructure and Canadian security. Ottawa [Canada], October 4 (ANI): Canada’s decision to significantly reduce tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) has triggered fresh concerns over national security, cybersecurity and the potential collection of sensitive data, according to a report by The Epoch Times.The media outlet reported that Chinese EVs are expected to gain greater access to the Canadian market following Ottawa’s decision to cut the tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles from 100 per cent to 6.1 per cent.

The move is part of a broader trade arrangement under which China also reduced duties on Canadian canola imports.According to The Epoch Times, the agreement initially permits up to 49,000 Chinese EVs annually to enter Canada at the reduced tariff, with the quota expected to increase in subsequent years.The concerns were highlighted during a 90-minute discussion titled “Cheap cars, high costs: The security reality of China’s EVs”, hosted by the Ottawa-based Macdonald-Laurier Institute. The panel brought together industry and policy experts to examine the potential security implications of Canada’s EV agreement with China, The Epoch Times reported. Margaret McCuaig-Johnston, a China expert and senior fellow