Importers seeking access to the Chinese EV quota should confirm their eligibility, vehicle origin, and permit requirements before importing.
Canada has published new rules for the Chinese EV quota, outlining how eligible importers can access the quota and the permits required for the second quota period beginning September 1, 2026.
The second quota period runs through to February 28, 2027, with 24,500 vehicles available, plus any unused volume carried over from the first period. Available quota volumes are published online.
Eligible EVs imported within the quota are subject to Canada’s 6.1% most-favoured-nation (MFN) tariff rate. Access will be administered on a first-come, first-served basis, with import permits issued to eligible importers until the available quantity is reached.
Global Affairs Canada will monitor permit applications and issuance and may set aside part of the quota for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), including new entrants, to support equitable access.
To access the Chinese EV quota, an importer must be a resident of Canada and an original equipment OEM engaged in manufacturing or assembling new EVs.
Non-resident OEMs can participate by appointing a Canadian-resident agent to act as the importer.
Covered EVs require a shipment-specific import permit from Global Affairs Canada, including vehicles temporarily imported for testing or demonstration.
Applications can be submitted up to 30 days before the expected date of entry, and permits can remain valid for up to 60 days. Vehicles subject to the controls cannot be imported without the required permit.
Importers are responsible for ensuring permit applications are made in the name of the importer of record and include the correct commodity code and quantity. They must also correct or cancel inaccurate, unused, or expired permits and comply with any other applicable federal import requirements.
An EV is considered to originate in China if it was substantially manufactured there under Canada’s Determination of Country of Origin for the Purpose of Marking Goods (Non-CUSMA Countries) Regulations.
The rules also cover complete EV knock-down kits. If a kit is substantially manufactured in China and then assembled in Canada or another country, the finished vehicle is still treated as Chinese-origin.
Certain non-passenger EVs, including electric golf carts, electric tricycles, and three-wheeled mobility scooters, are excluded from the controls.
Cole International provides trade consulting and customs brokerage services to help Canadian businesses navigate changing trade requirements and manage their import needs.
If you import electric vehicles from China, reach out to one of our trade professionals to discuss how the Chinese EV quota may apply to your shipments.