The tariffs add a new front to a trade war largely driven by Donald Trump's announcement of tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China and threats of protectionist measures on other nations.

Beijing, which set steep duties on canola, peas and pork, wants Canada and Mexico to resist U.S. pressure to raise tariffs on Chinese goods.

China announced tariffs on Canadian agricultural and food products on Saturday in retaliation for October's decision to impose duties on Chinese-made electric vehicles, steel and aluminium. The Chinese commerce ministry said a 100 per cent tariff would be placed on Canadian rapeseed oil,