China Suspends Key Agricultural Tariffs on Canada by Amit Gupta, Kedia Advisory
China has announced a temporary suspension of several tariffs on Canadian agricultural imports following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s January visit to Beijing. The move includes lifting 100% tariffs on canola meal and peas, and halting 25% tariffs on lobster and crab imports from March 1 through the end of 2026. However, no decision was announced on canola seed tariffs, which currently stand at 84%, despite expectations they would be reduced. Chinese buyers have already begun booking Canadian canola cargoes, signaling confidence in further easing. The development reflects improving trade ties as both nations navigate shifting global trade dynamics.
Key Highlights
- China suspends 100% tariffs on Canadian canola meal and peas until 2026.
- 25% tariffs on Canadian lobster and crab imports temporarily halted.
- No announcement yet on steep 84% canola seed tariffs.
- Chinese buyers already booking Canadian canola cargoes for March shipment.
- Canada signals reduced U.S. dependence with expanded China trade engagement.
Agricultural trade flows between Canada and China are poised for renewed momentum after Beijing announced a suspension of key tariffs on Canadian farm products. The decision follows Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to China in January, where both sides worked toward stabilizing strained trade ties.
China’s finance ministry confirmed it will suspend 100% tariffs on Canadian canola meal and peas, while also halting 25% duties on lobster and crab imports. These measures will take effect from March 1 and remain in place through the end of 2026. The move is expected to support Canadian export volumes, particularly in oilseed by-products and seafood, where China has historically been a major buyer.
However, uncertainty remains around canola seed tariffs. The current combined duty of 84% was not addressed in the latest announcement, despite earlier indications that rates could be reduced to around 15%. A Chinese investigation into Canadian canola is scheduled to conclude on March 9, and market participants remain optimistic. Notably, Chinese importers have already started booking Canadian canola cargoes for March delivery, suggesting expectations of easing restrictions.
Canola oil and pork were also absent from the statement, though further adjustments could emerge before the March 1 timeline previously referenced by Canadian officials. China was Canada’s second-largest canola market in 2024, underscoring the importance of restored access.
The broader development comes amid shifting global trade alliances, as Beijing positions itself as a stable economic partner while Western nations reassess dependence on the United States.
Finally, China’s tariff suspension signals improving trade relations, though unresolved canola seed duties remain a key variable shaping near-term agricultural trade dynamics.
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