Senior Canadian and Chinese officials discussed bilateral trade disputes on Friday

Senior Canadian and Chinese officials discussed bilateral trade disputes over canola and electric vehicles on Friday, with no immediate breakthrough indicated.

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand met with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, in Beijing as part of efforts by both countries to improve relations that have been rocky for years.

In August, China announced preliminary anti-dumping duties on Canadian canola imports, a year after Canada announced a 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles.

“The ministers discussed issues of mutual interest, such as agriculture and agri-food products, including canola, as well as seafood, meat, and electric vehicles,” a statement from Global Affairs Canada said.

“(They) agreed that regular and frank communication is essential to building trust, enhancing cooperation, and addressing relevant concerns.”

The official Chinese statement on the meeting stated that Wang informed Anand of Beijing’s willingness to cooperate with Canada to resume dialogue and exchange experiences at all levels, as well as to facilitate the resolution of legitimate issues of concern to both countries.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Thursday that he expected to meet with senior Chinese officials soon, but avoided answering a question about reducing tariffs on electric vehicles in exchange for a canola tariff exemption.

Tags: Canada, rapeseed, China