Beijing ( National Times): Prime Minister Mark Carney has unveiled a major new strategic partnership with China during his landmark visit to Beijing, the first by a Canadian prime minister since 2017 aimed at boosting Canada’s economic resilience through deeper cooperation in energy, agri-food, and trade.
Following high level meetings with President Xi Jinping and other top Chinese leaders, both countries released a joint statement outlining collaboration on clean energy, climate competitiveness, and technology, including batteries, solar, wind, and energy storage. Canada is also encouraging increased Chinese investment in its clean-tech and manufacturing sectors.
A key outcome includes Canada allowing up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles annually at a 6.1% tariff, representing less than 3% of the domestic market. The move is expected to spur joint-venture manufacturing in Canada and expand access to affordable EVs, with over half projected to be priced under $35,000 within five years.
On agri-food trade, China agreed in principle to sharply reduce tariffs on Canadian canola seed from about 85% to 15% by March 2026 and to ease restrictions on canola meal, seafood, and peas. These measures could unlock nearly $3 billion in new Canadian exports.
Canada has set a bold target to increase exports to China by 50% by 2030, while also expanding cooperation on global governance, public safety, cultural exchanges, and tourism. China has committed to visa free travel for Canadians, and both sides will deepen engagement ahead of the 2026 APEC Summit.
The visit signals a significant reset in Canada–China relations, focused on pragmatic cooperation in a rapidly shifting global economy.
Canada–China Reset: PM Mark Carney Seals Strategic Partnership on Energy, Trade, and Agri-Food
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