Pulse Industry Welcomes Removal of 100% Tariff on Canadian Peas

Pulse Canada welcomed today’s announcement that China will remove the 100% tariff on Canadian peas beginning March 1, 2026, following the Prime Minister’s visit to Beijing and meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The decision will restore access to one of Canada’s most important pulse export markets and provide long-overdue certainty for growers, exporters, and processors across the country.

China’s tariff, imposed in March 2025, effectively shut Canadian peas out of the market despite strong demand and Canada’s reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality product. Its removal marks a significant step toward stabilizing trade flows and rebuilding commercial relationships.

“The removal of the 100% tariff is welcome news for Canadian pulse growers and for the entire value chain,” said Terry Youzwa, Chair of Pulse Canada. “Since day one, Pulse Canada has worked with government and our customers to remove this tariff and restore access and predictability to the marketplace. Today’s announcement reinforces the importance of constructive, proactive engagement between trading partners, and we look forward to working together to ensure this removal is permanent.”

Pulse Canada appreciates the efforts of the Prime Minister and participating cabinet ministers in advancing this outcome, noting that predictable market access is essential for long-term investment and growth in the sector. From 2019-2024, Canada exported roughly $3.7B worth of peas to China.

“This outcome demonstrates what focused, persistent, high-level engagement can achieve,” said Greg Cherewyk, President of Pulse Canada. “Re-establishing access to China provides immediate commercial opportunities while strengthening Canada’s position as a trusted supplier of high-quality, nutritious, and sustainable food ingredients.”

The Canadian pulse sector contributes billions of dollars annually to the national economy and supports tens of thousands of jobs, particularly in rural communities. Restored access to China will support farm incomes, encourage value-added processing, and enhance Canada’s role as the preferred supplier of pulses to the market. Unimpeded agricultural trade supports Canadian and Chinese economic and nutritional security objectives and aligns the interests of both countries.

Pulse Canada looks forward to continued collaboration with federal officials and industry partners to ensure this progress translates into durable, rules-based trade and long-term market stability.