Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to embark on his first official visit to Asia on Friday, aiming to strengthen trade and security relations as the country works to reduce its heavy reliance on the U.S. and pursue new economic opportunities.
Officials indicated that Carney’s week-long trip may include a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, signaling an attempt to reset relations strained by previous trade tensions. The visit comes amid a backdrop of fractured U.S.-Canada relations, including the recent abrupt cancellation of trade talks by U.S. President Donald Trump over a political ad in Ontario.
Analysts emphasize the importance of Carney presenting Canada as an independent actor in global trade. “While the world economy is fragmenting, Carney needs to make it clear that Canada stands apart and is still committed to rules-based trade and globalization,” said Vina Nadjibulla, vice president of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada.
Expanding Trade Across Asia
Last month, Canada signed a trade agreement with Indonesia, establishing duty-free access for up to 95% of Canadian exports over the next year. Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu noted that Canada is now targeting additional agreements with the Philippines, Malaysia, South Korea, and Japan.
During the tour, Carney will attend the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, meet with officials in Singapore, and participate in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea. Notably, Trump is also traveling to Malaysia this week and is scheduled to meet Xi in South Korea, adding a complex geopolitical layer to Carney’s efforts.
Despite these initiatives, Canada still relies on the U.S. for roughly 75% of its exports. Experts suggest Asia presents greater growth potential than Europe for Canadian trade, particularly in energy and commodities. “The economies in Southeast Asia are much more dynamic and compatible with Canada,” said Fen Hampson, a professor at Carleton University. However, any dealings with China will be influenced by U.S.-China geopolitical tensions, making diplomatic navigation crucial.
Managing Relations with China
Canadian public sentiment toward China remains cautious. A recent poll found that 59% of Canadians view China negatively, and only 14% support closer economic ties. Relations deteriorated during the tenure of Carney’s predecessor, Justin Trudeau, with incidents including the detention of Canadian citizens, allegations of Chinese interference in federal elections, and public rebukes from Xi.
Carney’s background as a former central banker and international experience is seen as a strength in rebuilding trust and credibility. He recently spoke with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and anticipates further meetings with senior leadership to discuss trade relations. Analysts note that diplomatic nuance will be critical, with optics and protocol playing a key role in shaping perceptions. “How Carney conducts himself with Xi Jinping will be as important as the deals he negotiates,” said Isaac Stone Fish, CEO of Strategy Risks.
Carney’s Asia visit marks a strategic step in Canada’s broader effort to diversify trade, strengthen regional partnerships, and balance relationships between major global powers while pursuing economic growth in new markets.
