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By Alice McFarlane

What about pork?

Farm groups applaud tariff progress but look for action on pork

Jan 19, 2026 | 2:19 PM

Agricultural producer groups were pleased to learn of some tariff relief but are still hoping for some movement in the pork sector.

In Friday’s announcement with Prime Minister Mark Carney, Canada allow up to 49,000 Chinese-made electric vehicles into the Canadian market each year, with a 6.1 per cent tariff applied to their import. In exchange, China is expected to drop duties on canola seed to 15 per cent by March, and drop its tariffs on canola meal, lobsters, crabs and peas from March to at least the end of 2026.

But farm groups were quick to note that there seemed to be no movement on canola oil or pork.

The Saskatchewan Pork Development Board (SaskPork) has a different perspective on pork not being a part of tariff reductions from China. Communications and Marketing Coordinator Steve Seto said the move was still a positive step forward for Canadian agriculture.

“We’re happy that there’s conversation and dialogue going forward between one of our largest trading partners. That’s only going to lead to more conversation, more dialogue, and we really welcome all of this developing,” Seto said.

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With this new deal made between Canada and China, Seto said it is a step in the right direction.

“The hard work, it’s just beginning, but we’re looking forward to continuing to work with China and Canada and the government and all of our partners and stakeholders trying to find new ways that will benefit both countries as well as all of our partners across agriculture,” he said.

The Agricultural Producers’ Association of Saskatchewan also expressed concern that tariffs on canola oil and pork products entering China were not completely removed and advocated for continued negotiations.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com