Canada signalled on Tuesday that it is likely to impose further tariffs soon on Chinese batteries, tech products and critical minerals.

The announcement of a 30-day public consultation on the proposed measures comes on the heels of 100 per cent tariffs levied on imports of Chinese electric vehicles, due to take effect on October 1.

“Today, I’m announcing a 30-day consultation on imports to Canada from China of batteries and battery parts, semiconductors, critical minerals and metals and solar products,” Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland told a news conference in Nanaimo, British Columbia where members of the ruling Liberals are meeting.

In a statement, her office accused China of unfair competition in these areas that “threatens Canadian workers and businesses”.

The consultation on “potential surtaxes in response to unfair Chinese trade practices” will seek industry input on the application of a surtax and the timing of its coming into force, it said.