Canada has imposed a provisional 10% tariff on imported canned vegetables, excluding products from the United States, as it moves to protect domestic processors from a surge in foreign competition.
Reuters reported that tariff took effect on Friday and will remain in place for up to 200 days while the Canadian International Trade Tribunal investigates whether increased imports are harming the country’s canned vegetable industry.
The measure will also exempt imports from Mexico, Israel, Chile and developing nations under Canada’s existing trade commitments.
Canada’s Finance Ministry said the safeguard is temporary and will be lifted if the tribunal finds that domestic producers have not suffered material injury from imported canned vegetables. The tribunal is expected to complete its inquiry by Sept 9.
Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne said the government aims to strike a balance between supporting local producers and ensuring food security and affordability for Canadians.
The move comes amid growing concerns over rising imports and mounting pressure on Canada’s domestic food processing sector.
