Removing Chinese tariffs on Cdn. ag are a federal priority

The tariffs are listed in a statement following a meeting with premiers

Having China remove tariffs on Canadian ag and seafood products are among the priorities for the federal government.

Following a meeting with the country’s premiers in Saskatoon, Sask., the prime minister’s office released a statement identifying issues all parties are united on.

“The federal government committed to working urgently to remove Chinese tariffs on Canadian agriculture and seafood products,” the June 2 statement says. “First Ministers emphasized the critical importance of regular and ongoing engagement with China at the highest level to improve the overall trade relationship. In the face of ongoing tariffs, they also discussed opportunities to diversify trade and broaden market access for Canadian exporters.”

While taking questions from reporters after the meeting, Sask. Premier Scott Moe and said getting the tariffs removed will help farmers and Canada overall.

“The fact that the federal government is working diligently not only to have those tariffs removed but working diligently to broaden that relationship into the future I think is precisely what we need to do as a nation,” Moe said.

Chinese tariffs on Canadian ag have been in place for about three months.

On March 20, 100 per cent tariffs on Canadian canola oil, oil cakes, and pea imports, and a 25 per cent tax on seafood and pork products, went into effect.

China’s tariffs were a retaliation against Canada after it put a 100 per cent tariff on Chinese electric vehicles.

Farms.com has contacted the Canola Council of Canada for comment.