Statement from the Canada China Business Council (CCBC) on China’s Preliminary Duty on Canadian Canola Imports

On August 12, 2025, China announced a preliminary duty of 75.8% on Canadian canola imports, effective August 14, 2025.

CCBC has consistently maintained that tariffs and counter-tariffs harm businesses and consumers on both sides and ultimately undermine Canada–China economic relations. China is the largest export market for Canadian canola seed, representing 67% of total canola seed exports, valued at approximately $4 billion in 2024. The Canadian canola industry supports 207,000 jobs across the country. The preliminary duties announced will significantly harm Canada’s canola industry, with our hard-working Canadian farmers—particularly in Western Canada—bearing the brunt of the impact.

During the recent call between Prime Minister Carney and Premier Li Qiang, the two leaders agreed to regularize high-level engagements and communications between the two governments, and to reconvene the Joint Economic and Trade Commission (JETC) to address outstanding trade issues.

We strongly urge both governments to engage in constructive and meaningful negotiations at the highest levels to resolve outstanding bilateral trade issues, remove the imposed tariffs and counter-tariffs, and establish mechanisms to prevent similar escalations in the future. A mutual stand-down should be pursued to restore stability and predictability in the trade relationship.

CCBC remains committed to supporting Canadian businesses through these challenges and advocating for policies that foster stable, mutually beneficial Canada–China trade relations.

For media inquiries, please contact communications@ccbc.com