Former Official Warns Canada MPs About Data Collection, Surveillance Risks in Chinese-Made EVs

 A former senior government official warned Canadian lawmakers that Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) imported into Canada pose surveillance and data collection risks, particularly for individuals critical of the Chinese government. Margaret McCuaig-Johnston, a senior fellow at the University of Ottawa and an expert on China, testified before the House of Commons international trade committee on March 12, 2026.

McCuaig-Johnston stated that Chinese-made EVs are equipped with software from Chinese technology company Baidu, which collects vehicle information data and transmits it to China. She noted that these vehicles, expected to enter the Canadian market in large numbers, have capabilities including microphones, cameras, and location tracking. She told Canadian Members of Parliament (MPs) that "Chinese companies are required to spy on behalf of Chinese intelligence services if requested," adding that the situation poses a particular threat to critics of China....<<<Read More>>>...