Ottawa's tariffs shroud discussions with Beijing

Tensions have flared as Canada and China prepare to resume trade talks, following the former's decision to impose new tariffs on Chinese steel.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the measures last week, citing the need to protect the domestic steel sector from foreign dumping. The tariffs, set to take effect by the end of this month, include a 25 percent duty on all steel products containing metal melted and poured in China or other countries — excluding the United States.

China expressed strong dissatisfaction with the move. In a statement issued on July 18, the Ministry of Commerce said it firmly opposes the tariffs and vowed to take all necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights of Chinese companies.