China’s retaliatory tariffs on Canadian seafood could paralyze B.C.’s geoduck industry [Video]

China’s intent to slap new tariffs on Canadian seafood exports has British Columbia’s geoduck harvesters worried.

According to a statement from China’s Ministry of Finance, the new tariffs are in response to Canada’s 100 per cent tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles and 25 per cent levy on its aluminum and steel, both implemented late last year.

Seafood — including geoduck, lobster and shrimp — and pork are among the items that China will tariff at 25 per cent, while a 100 per cent tariff will be imposed on canola and peas. China’s tariffs are set to take effect on March 20.

The move comes amid an ongoing trade war launched by U.S. President Donald Trump last month.

Geoduck harvester Darrell Thomas says China’s tariffs are a blow to his already struggling business.

“We’re commercial divers [who] individually hand-pick each geoduck,” he said.

Geoducks are large saltwater clams known for their long siphon and their ability …