Canada and South Korea have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) to promote automotive manufacturing and investment in Canada. The agreement, signed during a visit by a South Korean government delegation, aims to advance South Korean automotive and electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing in Canada, including battery production and the supply chain. This MOU is linked to South Korea’s bid to win a contract to build submarines for the Royal Canadian Navy, with Ottawa seeking commitments from both South Korea and Germany to facilitate auto industry production pledges in Canada. The potential submarine contract could be worth billions of dollars and lead to long-term international partnerships.
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In a recent trade agreement, Canada and China have agreed to reduce tariffs on certain goods to benefit citizens of both nations. China will lower tariffs on Canadian agricultural products, while Canada will decrease tariffs on electric vehicles (EVs) from China. Initially, tariffs on Chinese EVs will drop significantly, with a quota allowing a limited number of vehicles under most-favored-nation terms, though this quota is expected to grow over time. This agreement presents an opportunity for Canadians to purchase more affordable, innovative EVs while boosting Canadian agricultural exports. To maximize the environmental benefits of this trade deal, Canada could invest in solar energy solutions like agrivoltaics and home solar carports to power the growing number of EVs.
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US says Canada will regret decision to allow Chinese EVs into their market, and honestly, the whole thing feels like a bad joke with a predictable punchline. It’s like when they tried to scare Canada about banning American liquor – remember how well that worked out? Now, it’s Chinese electric vehicles, and the US is playing the same old tune. You’d think a country that preaches free market principles would understand that competition is, well, the point.
US says Canada will regret decision to allow Chinese EVs into their market, yet from the other side of the border, the situation looks completely different.… Continue reading
Following meetings with Chinese leaders, Canada has agreed to eliminate its 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles. In exchange, China will reduce its tariffs on Canadian canola seeds. The initial cap on Chinese EV exports to Canada will be 49,000 vehicles annually, increasing over five years. This agreement reflects a shift towards a more predictable partnership with China, especially as trade relations with the United States have become strained under the America-first approach.
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Breaking with the United States, Canada has agreed to lower tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, implementing an initial cap on imports and a reduced tariff rate. In return, China will significantly lower its tariffs on Canadian canola seeds, a key export for Canada. The deal aims to diversify Canada’s economy and drive investment in its auto sector, while also improving relations with China, marking a shift from previous alignment with the U.S. Amidst concerns from some Canadian officials and criticism from the U.S. Trade Representative, this move is seen by some as a success for China, which is hoping to drive a wedge between Canada and the U.S.
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Following a high-stakes meeting, China and Canada announced significant tariff relief, marking a shift in their strained relationship. China will reduce tariffs on Canadian canola oil, while Canada agreed to tax Chinese electric vehicles at a most-favored-nation rate, signalling a major breakthrough after years of trade disputes. This agreement is seen as a strategic move by Canada to diversify its trade and attract Chinese investment, particularly in light of trade uncertainties with the United States. Observers suggest this deal could be a model for other nations impacted by Washington’s trade policies, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of pragmatic and respectful relations for global stability.
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Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to visit China from January 13 to 17, aiming to enhance engagement on trade, energy, agriculture, and international security. This marks the first such visit since 2017, following a period of strained relations due to the arrest of a Huawei executive and the subsequent detention of Canadian citizens. Despite previously labeling China a security threat, Carney has signaled intentions to deepen ties, having met with Chinese officials in recent months, suggesting a potential “turning point” in the relationship. While Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe welcomes the visit and hopes it addresses canola tariffs, others like Michael Kovrig have cautioned against prioritizing China for economic diversification, especially regarding tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
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Tesla has been dethroned as the world’s top electric vehicle maker by Chinese rival BYD, experiencing a 9% decrease in sales with 1.64 million vehicles delivered in 2025. This sales decline was further impacted by the end of a tax credit and overseas competition. Despite the sales slump, Tesla stock closed 2025 with an 11% gain as investors remain optimistic about Elon Musk’s future plans. The company is attempting to increase sales by releasing cheaper Model Y and Model 3 versions and analysts predict a continued decline in the fourth quarter.
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Russia Oil Prices Hit Lowest Since War Began on Western Pressure, and this fact throws a spotlight on the effectiveness of the economic pressure being applied. It’s a significant development, especially when we consider the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the various sanctions imposed on Russia. We’re seeing Russian crude oil prices now trading at levels not seen since the beginning of the war, a stark indicator of the struggles faced by the nation’s oil industry. The discounts required to sell Russian oil have deepened, and this is a direct consequence of the sanctions and the overall market dynamics.… Continue reading
Ford Motor Co. is adjusting its electric vehicle strategy due to financial losses and changing consumer preferences, shifting investment towards gasoline-powered and hybrid vehicles. The company will discontinue the all-electric F-150 Lightning, instead focusing on an extended-range version and retooling its Tennessee Electric Vehicle Center to produce gas-powered trucks. These changes come as Ford has lost billions on EVs and anticipates further financial hits, with plans to have half of its global volume be hybrids and extended-range EVs by 2030. The shift reflects broader industry trends, as consumer demand for EVs has lagged, influenced by factors like cost and charging infrastructure, alongside policy changes from the Trump administration impacting fuel economy and emissions regulations.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood