MP Kram Slams Federal Inaction on Chinese Canola Tariffs
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 14, 2025
Regina, SK — Michael Kram, Member of Parliament for Regina—Wascana, is calling on the federal government to take immediate and decisive action in response to China’s newly-imposed tariffs on Canadian canola exports.
“These punitive tariffs are yet another blow to Canadian farmers who are already facing tight margins and global market uncertainty. Canola is one of Saskatchewan’s most important agricultural exports. Last year, Canadian canola exports to China exceeded $5 billion. Every day the government delays action is another day farmers lose income, and Canada loses market share,” Kram said.
The Chinese government’s decision to impose steep duties on Canadian canola—citing questionable trade and agricultural concerns—has effectively shut the door on one of Canada’s largest agricultural markets. Kram criticized the federal government for what he described as a “slow, negligent, and inadequate” response to the crisis.
“Farmers in Saskatchewan and across the Prairies are not asking for sympathy; they’re asking for leadership. Prime Minister Carney is losing trade wars around the world and Canadians are paying the price. Mark Carney told us he was a master negotiator who could solve our trade disputes – but the situation has only gotten worse.”
“We need clear, strategic action to protect our agricultural sector—whether that means ramping up the challenge through the World Trade Organization, diversifying export markets, or providing direct support to producers affected by these tariffs,” Kram stated.
Kram also noted that canola is not just a regional issue—it is a national economic driver.
“The canola industry supports tens of thousands of jobs across the country, from family farms to processing plants to transport and logistics. Ottawa’s failure to act swiftly sends the wrong message to our trading partners and to Canadian producers.”
The Regina MP urged the federal government to stand up for Canadian farmers.
“We cannot allow foreign governments to bully our producers and dictate the terms of trade without consequence. Our farmers deserve better. Conservatives stand ready to work with the government to remove these tariffs and restore markets for our farmers and businesses.”
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