China Retaliates Against Canada With New Tariffs On Agriculture

China is striking back at Canada with fresh tariffs on agricultural goods — ramping up economic pressure after months of trade tensions. The move will impact billions in exports and follows Canadian trade restrictions on Chinese products introduced last year.

The new tariffs — set to take effect on March 20 — will apply a 100% duty to rapeseed oil, oil cakes and peas. Additionally — pork and aquatic products will face a 25% tariff. This comes as a direct response to Canada’s decision to impose tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, steel and aluminum in October.

China’s Ministry of Commerce condemned Canada’s actions — calling them unfair and harmful to trade relations. Officials warned that further measures could be implemented if Canada refuses to change course. Beijing has used trade retaliation before—back in 2019 — it restricted Canadian rapeseed oil imports after the arrest of a Huawei executive.

Meanwhile — President Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff policies are already causing financial strain on Canada — with the possibility of additional U.S. tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods still looming. While some restrictions were temporarily lifted — the potential for full reinstatement remains.

With $47 billion in exports to China in 2024 — Canada’s economic reliance on the Chinese market is clear. These latest restrictions will hit the agriculture sector hard — forcing producers to seek alternative buyers or absorb financial losses.

The timing of these tariffs could also create political headaches for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau — as his government faces increased scrutiny over economic policy ahead of Canada’s national elections.

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