Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe announced that he will travel to China in the coming weeks to hold talks aimed at removing recently imposed tariffs on Canadian canola seed.
China applied preliminary duties of 75.8% on canola seed imports last week following an anti-dumping investigation, a move that could significantly affect trade flows. China remains Canada’s largest market for canola.
Canada, the world’s leading exporter of canola, shipped nearly C$5 billion ($3.63 billion) worth of canola products to China in 2024, with seeds accounting for about 80% of the total. If the tariffs remain, industry officials warn that Canadian canola seed exports to China could face severe disruption.
Federal Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald voiced support for farmers and the sector, which contributes an estimated C$43 billion in economic value and supports around 200,000 jobs. “We’re working diligently alongside them,” MacDonald said after a meeting with industry stakeholders.
The new tariffs come after earlier trade measures between the two countries. Earlier this year, tariffs were also applied to Canadian canola oil, meal, and other agricultural products. The latest move targeting canola seed follows Canada’s imposition of tariffs on steel in July.
Premier Moe said his upcoming visit to China is intended to open dialogue and explore opportunities for resolution. He also reiterated calls for federal assistance for the canola industry if the dispute continues.
MacDonald noted that while it is too early to determine what specific aid might be provided, support could be considered if the situation persists. He added that assessing the motivations behind the trade actions remains complex.
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