Lotus has announced that it will be the first Chinese electric brand to enter the Canadian market under a new tariff agreement. Company head Feng Qingfeng stated that Canada will provide an annual quota of 49,000 electric vehicles with a 6.1% duty, avoiding an additional 100% tax. This quota is set to expand gradually, creating a significant window of opportunity for the brand. Against this backdrop, Lotus has temporarily halted exports to Middle Eastern countries due to unstable conditions and is adjusting its supply routes.

The company has already opened six dealerships in Canada and plans to double its presence in the coming months. Production of export models has begun, and Lotus is ready to start shipments immediately after the official publication of tariff rules. The brand expects growth in Canada to partly offset declining sales in the Middle East.

This move aligns with Lotus's updated strategy, which includes launching new hybrid models and accelerating expansion in China and Europe. The British manufacturer, controlled by Geely since 2017, maintains its Hethel plant as a central export hub, with the U.S. accounting for about 60% of sports car shipments from the UK. Lotus aims for a "3331" distribution model: 30% in China, 30% in Europe, 30% in the U.S., and 10% in other countries.

Entering Canada with reduced tariffs could become one of Lotus's most significant steps in North America, especially amid growing competition among Chinese EV brands and a softening tariff policy.