Carney's China visit focuses on trade and diplomatic ties

Mark Carney arrived in China today leading his largest ministerial delegation so far as Ottawa seeks to address trade disputes, including China's tariffs on canola and Canada's 100-per-cent tariff on Chinese electric vehicles.

Mark Carney arrived in China today leading his largest ministerial delegation since becoming prime minister. It is the first trip by a Canadian prime minister to China in more than eight years. The visit comes as Ottawa tests whether a reset with Beijing is worth domestic and diplomatic trade-offs after incidents such as the Meng Wanzhou arrest, the detentions of the two Michaels and findings of foreign interference. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe will join part of the meetings. Key facts: - Carney travelled with five cabinet ministers, his largest delegation on a foreign trip so far. - In 2024 Canada imposed a 100-per-cent tariff on Chinese electric vehicles; Beijing responded with tariffs on peas, pork, seafood and canola seed and oil. - The canola levies led to about $1-billion in lost value for the sector after prices plunged. - China's ambassador has said agricultural tariffs would be lifted if Canada scraps the EV tariff. - Ontario Premier Doug Ford said he was "absolutely 100 per cent dead against" lifting the EV tariff and suggested Chinese automakers build factories in Ontario. - Two Liberal MPs cut short a visit to Taiwan on government advice and returned to Canada. Summary: Negotiations in Beijing are expected to address the 100-per-cent EV tariff and retaliatory agricultural duties, which have domestic political and economic implications. Undetermined at this time.