China has implemented new tariffs on Canadian agricultural products, including rapeseed oil and pork, a move that industry leaders warn will have severe economic repercussions for Canadian farmers.
The new levies, which take effect on Thursday, follow Beijing’s investigation into Canada’s tariffs on Chinese goods imposed last year. Rapeseed oil, oil cakes, and peas will now be subject to a 100% tariff, while aquatic products and pork face a 25% levy.
Chris Davison, President of the Canola Council of Canada, described the tariffs as a major setback. “These new trade barriers will have a devastating impact on canola farmers and the broader supply chain at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty,” he said, urging the Canadian government to engage with China to resolve the dispute.
The move comes as both China and Canada navigate rising trade tensions with the United States. Canada recently matched U.S. tariffs by imposing a 100% surcharge on Chinese electric vehicle imports, along with duties on steel and aluminum from China.
China’s commerce ministry justified the tariffs, stating that Canadian policies had “disrupted normal trade and harmed Chinese businesses.”
