China has initiated a one-year anti-dumping investigation into imports of rapeseed from Canada, coinciding with the impending implementation of 100% tariffs by Ottawa on Chinese-made electric vehicles and other products. This move reflects the escalating trade tensions between Beijing and Western nations, particularly following recent tariff impositions by Canada, the United States, and the European Union on Chinese electric vehicles.
The investigation will assess imports from January 1 to December 31, 2023, with preliminary findings suggesting that dumping has occurred. The Chinese commerce ministry indicated that there is a causal relationship between the increased Canadian imports and damage to the domestic industry, citing significant rises in imports and declining prices.
Chinese President Xi Jinping also met with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to discuss avoiding a broader trade war, emphasizing the need for cooperation and a level playing field. In addition to the rapeseed probe, China has launched investigations into EU dairy and pork imports.
In 2023, China imported 5.5 million metric tons of canola, valued at $3.72 billion, with Canadian exports making up 94% of that total.