Ottawa / Beijing — January 20, 2026
Canada’s relationship with China took an important step forward this month when Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. The meeting marks the start of a renewed strategic partnership between the two countries.
In a joint statement, both leaders emphasized working together on trade, energy, agri-food, and long-term economic growth. The goal is to strengthen Canada’s economy and make it more resilient in a changing world.
Key Points from the Meeting
- Trade and agri-food: China is Canada’s second-largest export market. Both countries agreed to reduce tariffs and remove long-standing trade barriers.
- Canola breakthrough: By March 1, 2026, tariffs on Canadian canola seed will drop to about 15%, down from around 85%. With the Chinese market worth nearly $4 billion a year, this is expected to create new opportunities for Canadian farmers.
- Other exports: Canadian canola meal, lobster, crab, and peas exported to China will not face anti-discrimination tariffs from March 1 through the end of the year.
- Clean transportation: Canada will allow up to 49,000 Chinese-made electric vehicles to enter the Canadian market. Officials expect that over half of these vehicles will be affordable electric models within five years.
Prime Minister Carney emphasized that this renewed engagement reflects Canadians’ desire for a serious, forward-looking plan to strengthen the economy and create opportunities at home. The partnership aims to help Canada grow and compete in an increasingly uncertain global environment.