Navigating the complex intersection of economic interdependence and national security.
Total Trade (2024)
$100B+
▲ 2nd Largest Partner
Trade Deficit
-$48B
Import Dependent
Tariff Barrier
100%
Surtax on Chinese EVs
People-to-People
1.8M
Canadians of Chinese Descent
📊 The Economic Reality
Trade flows persist despite diplomatic friction.
Trade Trajectory (2019-2024)
Imports vs. Exports (Billions CAD)
Resource vs. Tech Exchange
Canada exports raw goods, imports finished tech.
⚡ Flashpoints: The Tariff War
Retaliatory measures defining the 2024-2025 landscape.
🇨🇦 Action
Canada imposed a 100% surtax on Chinese Electric Vehicles (EVs) and 25% on Steel/Aluminum to counter "unfair state subsidies."
🇨🇳 Reaction
Beijing launched an anti-dumping probe into Canadian Canola. Canola is a $13B industry for Canada.
The Stakes: Canola Market Exposure
China is the dominant buyer of Canadian Canola seed.
🧭 Strategic Compass
Balancing economic benefit against security risk.
Policy Risk Matrix
Identifying safe zones for engagement.
Three Pillars of Engagement
Pragmatic Cooperation
Focus on climate change (COP15), biodiversity, and non-sensitive trade where mutual interests align.
Defensive Decoupling
Protect critical minerals, telecommunications infrastructure, and democratic institutions from interference.
Indo-Pacific Pivot
Reduce over-reliance on China by strengthening trade ties with Japan, South Korea, India, and ASEAN.