Adedokun Waliyu 
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has said he would oppose any agreement between Stellantis and Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology to produce electric vehicles in Ontario if it involves the use of imported Chinese parts instead of local components.
Ford criticised the idea of using “knockdown kits,” where vehicles are mostly assembled in China and then shipped abroad for final assembly. He warned that such an arrangement would undermine jobs for auto workers in Ontario.
The discussions between Stellantis and Leapmotor are still at an early stage and are focused on a currently inactive assembly plant in Brampton. Canadian Industry Minister Mélanie Joly stated that any new automotive investments should prioritise Canada’s supply chain, including local labour and parts suppliers.
Labour union Unifor also raised concerns, noting that the use of knockdown kits would create significantly fewer jobs compared to full-scale manufacturing.
The potential deal highlights the broader impact of policies by US President Donald Trump, particularly tariffs on foreign-made vehicles, which have disrupted the North American automotive sector and increased costs for manufacturers.
Ontario, which hosts all of Canada’s automotive assembly plants, has been significantly affected by shifts in production from major automakers like Stellantis, Ford Motor Company, and General Motors.
During a trade mission in Texas, Ford emphasised the importance of stronger economic ties between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, urging renewed commitment to free trade among the three countries.
He also highlighted Ontario’s strengths in areas such as nuclear energy and critical minerals, positioning the province as a key partner in North American industrial growth.
