Prime Minister Carney departs for China on high-stakes trade and diplomacy visit

Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to depart this evening on a five-day official visit to China, a trip being closely watched for its potential impact on trade, agriculture, and Canada’s broader foreign policy direction.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe will accompany the prime minister as part of the delegation, highlighting the importance of agricultural trade to Western Canada. Saskatchewan farmers have been particularly affected by Chinese tariffs on Canadian canola, a key export for the province and a major source of farm income.

During the visit, Carney is expected to meet with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Thursday and President Xi Jinping on Friday. Discussions are expected to focus on energy cooperation, agricultural trade, and international security, according to officials familiar with the agenda.

Trade experts suggest the talks could involve difficult negotiations, as China’s removal of tariffs on Canadian agricultural products may come with expectations that Canada reconsider its own trade measures, including tariffs imposed on Chinese-made electric vehicles.

The Beijing visit is being viewed as a significant moment in Canada’s international positioning, particularly as Ottawa seeks to reduce its reliance on any single trading partner. Carney has said his government is working to build a more diversified and resilient economy amid shifting global alliances.