Mark Carney Canada China Trade 2026: A Strategic Pivot Away From the US
Canadian PM Mark Carney visits China for the first time since 2017, seeking to diversify trade away from the US amid Donald Trump's aggressive 35% tariff policy.
They're shaking hands, but the room remains cautious. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in China on January 15, 2026, marking the first visit by a Canadian leader to Beijing since 2017. It's a high-stakes gamble as Canada navigates a turbulent relationship with the United States under Donald Trump.
Mark Carney Canada China Trade: Breaking the US Reliance
Carney's trip isn't just a courtesy call; it's a mission to diversify. With nearly 80% of Canadian exports currently bound for the US, Trump's across-the-board 35% tariff has sent shockwaves through Ottawa. Carney has stated his ambitious goal to double non-US trade over the next decade. He's scheduled to meet with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang to find new life for Canadian energy and agricultural products.
A Fragile Thaw After the 'Deep Freeze'
Relations between the two nations fell into a deep freeze in 2018 following the arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in Vancouver. The frost deepened in 2024 when Ottawa slapped Chinese electric vehicles with 100% tariffs. Beijing's retaliatory duties on canola further strained the bond. However, experts like Vina Nadjibulla from the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada suggest Carney is being "pragmatic," focusing on economic recalibration over ideological battle lines.
This trip marks a recalibration and change in tone, signaling Canada’s desire to improve relations amidst North American uncertainty.
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