The Globe and Mail reports in its Friday, Oct. 24, edition that Western farmers are hoarding canola seed. The Globe's Kate Helmore writes that storage is expected to exceed 19 million tonnes, equivalent to about 76 mega container ships, according to the Canadian Grain Commission. In August, Beijing announced 75.8-per-cent tariffs on canola seed. Losing the Chinese market was a blow to Western agriculture. Canola is the top crop in the Prairies, with China importing 5.8 million tonnes in 2024, the highest of any country. Following this announcement, canola prices dropped, resulting in a $1-billion loss for the sector, affecting individual farms significantly. Canadian farmers face risks by storing canola, as it can spoil and prices may drop. With bills for fertilizer, fuel and seed due, they are in need of cash. The urgency raises concerns about when Ottawa will settle the dispute with China and if farmers can avoid selling at low prices or facing worse outcomes. In mid-August, Beijing imposed tariffs on Canadian canola seed in response to Ottawa's 100-per-cent tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles from October, 2024. This came at an unfortunate time, as record yields of 21 million tonnes are expected this year.