China has announced it will launch anti-discrimination and anti-dumping investigations into Canada’s recent tariff hikes on electric vehicles, steel, aluminum, rapeseed imports, and related chemical products from China, according to the Ministry of Commerce on Tuesday.
China’s Response to Canadian Tariffs
The move comes after Canada declared a 100-percent tariff on imports of Chinese-made electric vehicles (EVs) last week, following similar measures by the United States and the European Union. Additionally, Canada plans to impose a 25-percent duty on Chinese steel and aluminum products.
A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to Canada’s unilateral and discriminatory restrictions on imports from China.
“Despite opposition and dissuasion from various parties, Canada has imposed discriminatory unilateral restrictions on imports from China. China is strongly dissatisfied and firmly opposed to this and plans to bring Canada’s actions to the WTO dispute resolution mechanism,” the spokesperson said, adding that China will take other corresponding measures based on the actual situation.
Investigations into Rapeseed Imports
Citing concerns over unfair competition, China will also initiate an anti-dumping investigation into rapeseed imports from Canada. According to recent reports from Chinese domestic industries, Canada’s rapeseed exports to China have significantly increased, with suspected dumping practices. The exports reached $3.47 billion in 2023, marking a 170-percent increase in quantity year-on-year, while prices continued to decline.
“Affected by Canada’s unfair competition, related domestic industries in China have been suffering continuous losses. China will, in accordance with domestic laws and regulations and in line with WTO rules, initiate an anti-dumping investigation into rapeseed imports from Canada,” the spokesperson stated.
Impact on Global Trade Relations
The escalating trade tensions between China and Canada reflect broader global trade dynamics, as nations navigate economic policies amid shifting alliances and market demands.
Reference(s):
China announces probes over Canada's tariff hike, certain products
cgtn.com