Geely Confirms Canadian Market Entry, First Sales Set for 2027

Geely has officially confirmed it will enter the Canadian market, with first vehicle sales planned for 2027. The automaker said it has begun building a Canadian business organization and dealer network, according to digitaltoday.co.kr.

Geely has launched a Canadian website at geely.ca. The company has not yet revealed launch models, prices, or dealer locations for Canada.

Brian Wu, Managing Director of Geely Auto Canada, said the Canadian expansion is based on a long-term commitment. Geely said it will build a retail and service network with trusted partners who understand the local community, suggesting it will likely adopt a franchise dealer model.

Models mentioned for export markets include the electric SUV EX5 and the plug-in hybrid Starray EM-i. The EX5 is sold in China as the Galaxy E5, but the model for Canada has not been finalized.

Tariff Quota Shapes Timing

In January, Canada reached an agreement with China to lower the 100% tariff on Chinese-made EVs, creating a quota of 49,000 vehicles per year at a 6.1% most-favored-nation rate. That system took effect on March 1, and volumes exceeding the quota still face a 100% additional tariff. The quota is not yet exhausted; Canada allocates permits in two six-month periods, and 8,897 unused units from the first period rolled over, bringing the current period's volume to 33,397 units through February 28, 2027. Geely's 2027 sales timeline likely aligns with the second quota year.

Rivals are moving on the same market. BYD is preparing 20 dealerships in Canada, starting in Toronto. In June, China's ambassador to Canada said Lotus EVs produced by Geely Holding in China would enter Canada in July under this system.

For Geely's own brand, Canada is effectively the only gateway to the North American market. The United States has raised barriers with regulations on Chinese connected-vehicle technology, and Geely-affiliated Polestar is also affected in the U.S. market.