China will impose additional tariffs on select Canadian products starting March 20, escalating trade tensions between the two nations. The Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council announced Saturday that Canadian rapeseed oil, oil cakes, and peas will face 100% extra duties, while aquatic products and pork imports will be subject to a 25% increase.
The move follows months of strained economic relations, with analysts suggesting it aligns with Beijing’s broader strategy to address trade imbalances. Global markets are bracing for potential supply chain disruptions, particularly in agricultural sectors where Canada is a key exporter to Asia.
Business professionals and investors are advised to monitor cross-Pacific pricing shifts, especially for alternative protein sources and edible oils. Academics highlight parallels to 2018 trade patterns, emphasizing that prolonged tariffs could reshape regional alliances in Asia-Pacific supply networks.
For residents of Canada’s Asian diaspora communities and international traders, the announcement underscores the importance of diversifying sourcing strategies. Meanwhile, food industry stakeholders await potential price fluctuations in popular exports like Canadian pork – a staple in many East Asian cuisines.
