China imposes tariffs on Canadian agriculture amidst trade row
The Ministry of Finance in Beijing has announced the imposition of tariffs on Canadian agricultural products. This decision follows an investigation into the duties imposed by Ottawa on, among other things, electric cars manufactured in China.
The tariffs include a 100 per cent charge on canola oil, cakes, and common peas, while a 25 per cent tariff will be applied to seafood and pork. These measures will come into effect from 19th March, according to the Tariff Commission of the State Council of the People's Republic of China.
China's reaction to Canada's actions
At the end of last year, Canadian authorities announced a 100 per cent tariff on electric cars made in China and a 25 per cent tariff on steel and aluminium from the country.
The Ministry of Commerce in Beijing declared that the investigation determined that Canada’s actions "disrupt normal trade order and harm the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises."
In a separate statement, the Ministry of Finance described Canada’s policy as a "clear example of unilateralism and trade protectionism," which "discriminates" against Chinese enterprises. "We urge Canada to rectify its wrongdoings immediately, lift restrictive measures and eliminate their adverse effects," stated the Ministry of Finance.
