China has formally lodged a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) against Canada’s recent trade measures, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce announced on Wednesday. The complaint centers on Canada’s unilateral trade protectionism practices, which Beijing asserts violate WTO rules and harm bilateral economic relations.
The ministry also revealed that it has initiated an anti-discrimination investigation into Canada’s restrictive measures targeting specific imports from China.
As of Tuesday, Canada imposed a 100 percent tariff on all Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs), including some hybrids, trucks, and buses. These measures, initially announced in late August, represent a significant escalation in trade tensions between the two nations. Additionally, Canada declared on Tuesday that it will impose a 25-percent surtax on select imports of steel and aluminum from China, effective from October 22.
The Chinese Ministry of Commerce responded strongly, stating that Canada’s actions undermine the principles of a market economy and fair competition. “These measures severely damage normal economic and trade cooperation between China and Canada, greatly impact their economic relations, and disrupt and distort global industrial and supply chains,” the ministry said in a statement.
Beijing urged Ottawa to approach bilateral economic and trade cooperation rationally and objectively, adhere to WTO rules, and avoid further missteps. “China will take all necessary measures to firmly protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises,” the ministry emphasized.
The escalating trade dispute highlights growing tensions between China and Canada, with potential implications for global trade dynamics and international supply chains. Observers are watching closely to see how both countries will navigate this conflict and what it may mean for future economic cooperation.
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China files complaint at WTO against Canada's trade practices
cgtn.com
