China's Ministry of Commerce has called "dangerous" Canada's intention to impose additional tariffs on its batteries, technology products and important minerals, state media reported.
Ottawa has announced a 30-day public consultation on the proposed measures, which come alongside 100-per-cent duties imposed on imports of Chinese electric vehicles due to take effect Oct. 1.
Canada's latest announcement on the tariffs is "dangerous and irresponsible," a Chinese commerce ministry spokesman was quoted as saying by AFP.
The move will have a serious impact on the two countries' economic and trade relations, and also undermines global economic systems and trade rules, the spokesman added.
Discouraging Canada from going ahead with the initiative, the spokesman said China would seek to protect its own rights and interests.
Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland's office accused China of unfair competition in tariff areas that it said threatens Canadian workers and businesses.
The consultation period will allow industry to provide input on the implementation of the additional taxation and the timing of its coming into force.
When Canada announced its duties on electric vehicles in August, it said it would impose a surtax on imports of steel and aluminum products from China.
China said it would launch an anti-dumping probe of Canadian canola and chemical products in apparent retaliation. | BGNES
