Poilievre Demands Urgent Action on Canola Tariffs in Saskatoon

URGENT UPDATE: Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is calling for immediate action from Prime Minister Mark Carney regarding crippling tariffs on canola, as tensions escalate with China. During a visit to a farm outside Saskatoon on October 12, 2023, Poilievre criticized Carney’s leadership, stating that inaction is harming Western Canada’s canola producers.

“It’s like he doesn’t care about Western Canadian producers,” Poilievre asserted. He highlighted that Carney has not addressed the canola crisis on social media, even tweeting about International Cat Day instead.

China’s latest move, imposing a staggering 75.8% tariff on canola seed imports, was enacted on Thursday, escalating a year-long trade dispute. This follows a previous 100% tariff on canola oil and meal implemented in March, devastating Canada’s second-largest canola market.

The new tariff is perceived as retaliation for Canada’s decision to impose a 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles scheduled for 2024. Poilievre, campaigning for a seat in the House of Commons in an upcoming Alberta byelection, emphasized that revenue from the disputed tariffs should directly benefit Canadian canola producers.

“The money raised by the Canadian government in that dispute should go back to the people who are paying the bills,” Poilievre stated.

Bill Prybylski, president of the Agriculture Producers Association of Saskatchewan, echoed Poilievre’s concerns, urging immediate government intervention. “He’s got to do something because right now it looks like we’re being sacrificed,” Prybylski remarked. “Sacrificing canola producers to save an EV industry that for the most part, is non-existent in the country.”

The canola industry, which contributes over $43 billion to the Canadian economy and supports approximately 200,000 jobs, is facing significant losses due to these tariffs. Prybylski noted that the initial downturn resulted in hundreds of millions in lost revenue, with harvest season quickly approaching, adding to the uncertainty.

In response to the growing crisis, Carney provided an update on social media, revealing discussions with Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe. He stated they are “focused on a series of measures to support hard-working farmers.” Carney also emphasized that Canada does not engage in dumping canola, which is a primary concern driving the tariff.

“We will advance a constructive dialogue with Chinese officials to address our respective trade concerns, while diversifying our trade abroad and supporting our canola producers at home,” Carney stated.

While Prybylski appreciates the federal government’s engagement, he expressed disappointment in the lack of urgency. He believes Saskatchewan farmers are being caught in the middle of a trade war that the federal government initiated. “We’re basically helpless here,” he lamented. “Other than we can advocate for changes and hope that our voices are being heard.”

This escalating situation highlights the urgent need for decisive action from Ottawa to protect the canola industry and ensure the livelihoods of thousands of farmers across Canada. As the situation develops, stakeholders are watching closely for any signs of relief or further governmental intervention.