Beijing — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has arrived in Beijing and announced a new strategic partnership with China during a landmark visit that marks a significant shift in Canada’s foreign policy and trade alignment. Carney’s statement, in which he referenced a changing “new world order,” signals a broader effort to diversify Canada’s economic ties beyond its traditional reliance on the United States.
Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed on a preliminary trade reset deal after eight years without a high-level bilateral visit, slashing tariffs on a range of products and reopening channels for trade, investment, and economic cooperation.
Historic Trade and Economic Agreements
During the visit, Canada and China agreed to lower trade barriers on key products. Canada will reduce its 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles to a 6.1% rate for up to 49,000 units annually, a dramatic reversal from previous protectionist policies under the former administration. In exchange, China will cut its tariffs on Canadian canola seed from 84% to 15%, remove discriminatory duties on Canadian seafood, and open the door for nearly $3 billion in new Canadian exports.
The agreement also includes commitments to expand cooperation on energy, green technology, agriculture, and finance, with both sides exploring investment and clean energy projects that could boost jobs and growth in both economies. Carney expressed confidence in China as a reliable economic partner while emphasizing the need to adapt to shifting global trade dynamics.
Strategic Pivot Amid Shifting Global Order
Carney’s reference to a “new world order” reflects a broader geopolitical shift in Canada’s approach to foreign relations. The prime minister has indicated that heavy reliance on the United States — which accounts for about 70% of Canadian exports — must be complemented by deeper engagements with markets like China as global trade structures evolve under protectionist pressures.
Analysts say the strategic move comes against a backdrop of increasing tensions with the United States, including recent tariff disputes and criticism of US protectionist policies. While Carney insisted that Canada remains pragmatically aligned with Western partners, his overtures to Beijing mark a clear attempt to hedge economic risk by strengthening ties with Beijing.
Balancing Opportunities and Criticism at Home
Despite optimism about economic gains, the pivot toward China has drawn domestic criticism from some Canadian political figures. Opponents argue that reducing tariffs on Chinese products could undermine local industries and risk economic overdependence on China. Leaders in Ontario, in particular, have voiced concerns about potential negative impacts on domestic auto manufacturing and market access for Canadian goods.
Supporters of the partnership, however, highlight the potential for increased investment, job creation, and market diversification, noting that stable trade links with China could help Canadian businesses gain a competitive edge internationally.
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