Canada might be able to double exports to China, Chinese foreign minister says during rare visit

Canada could potentially double its exports to China, surpassing the current goal of a 50% increase by 2030, according to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. During a meeting with his Canadian counterpart Anita Anand on Friday, Wang expressed optimism about the bilateral trade relationship, citing existing momentum.

Wang is undertaking a three-day visit to Canada, the first by a Chinese foreign minister in ten years. This visit is seen as a significant step toward improving diplomatic ties between the two nations. He is also scheduled to meet Prime Minister Mark Carney later on Friday.

Canada and China established an initial trade agreement in January, reducing tariffs on electric vehicles and canola. This agreement followed Prime Minister Carney's historic visit to China in 2017, marking the first time a Canadian prime minister had visited the country since that year. China remains Canada's second-largest trading partner. Carney has been actively seeking to diversify Canada's trading relationships, particularly in light of tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on Canadian goods.

"Canada is focused on growing our economy and diversifying our trading relationships," Anand stated during their meeting. She acknowledged the significance of the Canada-China economic relationship. The ministers' meeting occurred shortly after a Canadian warship, HMCS Charlottetown, completed a routine transit through the Taiwan Strait on May 23. China has firmly opposed any actions that undermine its sovereignty and security under the guise of freedom of navigation.

“

Canada is focused on growing our economy and diversifying our trading relationships.