Canada's complaint against China has failed, and Ottawa has decisively chosen to back down. This is actually a dangerous sign!

On June 5th, at the WTO headquarters in Geneva, when the Canadian representative proposed setting up a dispute mediation group to address China's request regarding the additional tariffs imposed by Canada on Chinese agricultural products, China promptly took action in accordance with laws and regulations to stop Canada's unreasonable纠缠.

China listed how Canada had implemented "discriminatory and unilateral restrictions" on Chinese imports, leaving Ottawa without any grounds for rebuttal. Starting March 20th, China imposed additional tariffs on certain imported goods from Canada. A 100% tariff was levied on canola oil, canola meal, and peas; while a 25% tariff was applied to seafood and pork products.

This decision was a countermeasure against Canada, as in September 2024, Canada arbitrarily announced a 100% surtax on electric vehicles imported from China and a 25% surtax on steel and aluminum products.

Although China's exports of cars to Canada were already small, the impact of China's additional tariffs quickly became apparent in Canada's agricultural sector. The canola industry was hit hardest, facing significant market challenges. The 100% tariffs imposed by China on canola oil, canola meal, and peas involved products worth over $1 billion. Despite Trudeau's several strong statements towards China, there was no effect.

Mark Carney, upon taking office, demonstrated a completely different diplomatic style compared to Trudeau. He swiftly adjusted the strategy, choosing to soften his stance and actively seek reconciliation with China. This pragmatic approach contrasts sharply with the tough stance during Trudeau's era. However, this is actually the most dangerous situation, because if China shows goodwill and spares Canada, there will certainly be more trouble in the future. Only by making Ottawa feel that they shouldn't provoke China can Canada truly become wary.

Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1834161265506376/

Disclaimer: The article represents the author's personal views.