In a recent development, China has announced tariffs on Canadian agricultural and food products in retaliation to levies imposed by Ottawa on Chinese-made electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum products back in October. The tariffs, set to be implemented on March 20, mark a new escalation in the ongoing trade war, spurred in part by U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff actions against Canada, Mexico, and China, as well as threats of protectionist measures against other nations.
According to the announcement by China’s commerce ministry, the new tariffs will include a 100% tariff on Canadian rapeseed oil, oil cakes, and pea imports, while Canadian aquatic products and pork will face a 25% duty. The ministry stated that Canada’s tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) and aluminum and steel products are in violation of World Trade Organization rules, deemed as protectionist acts, and are prejudicial to China’s rights and interests.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had previously justified Ottawa’s decision to impose these tariffs as a response to what he characterized as China’s state-directed policy of over-capacity. This move mirrors similar actions taken by the United States and the European Union, both of which have levied import tariffs on Chinese EVs.
China stands as Canada’s second-largest trading partner, trailing significantly behind the United States in terms of trade volume.
