In a notable diplomatic engagement, Canada has been approached by China for support in its bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a significant trade pact that includes Canada, Japan, and Australia. This overture comes on the heels of a recent visit to China by Senator Clement Gignac and Liberal MP Zoe Royer, who aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and advocate for the lifting of travel sanctions on Canadian parliamentarians critical of Beijing’s human rights practices.
A Diplomatic Mission to Strengthen Ties
From March 14 to 21, Gignac and Royer traversed key Chinese cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, where they engaged with high-ranking officials from the National People’s Congress. Gignac, who co-chairs the Canada-China Legislative Association, observed a markedly optimistic atmosphere compared to his prior visit a year earlier. He noted that confidence in Prime Minister Mark Carney’s efforts to reset relations between Canada and China has fostered a willingness in Chinese officials to enhance trade and investment opportunities.
“The tone was completely different this time around. There was a warm welcome, and they expressed interest in visiting Canada more frequently,” he remarked, highlighting a forthcoming delegation from China expected to arrive later this year.
CPTPP: A Strategic Initiative
Central to discussions during the visit was China’s desire for Canadian support in joining the CPTPP, an agreement that emerged after the United States withdrew from its predecessor, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), in 2017. The CPTPP has since gained traction among nations, including the United Kingdom, which joined the pact in December 2024, and the European Union, which is also contemplating membership.
Gignac pointed out that China first applied for CPTPP membership in 2021 but has faced repeated obstacles. “They would like Canada’s backing for access to the CPTPP. I reminded them of Canada’s role in helping China join the World Trade Organization,” he stated. While he emphasised that he does not hold a position within the executive government and cannot guarantee support, he expressed hope for a positive Canadian response.
National Security Concerns and Reciprocity
During discussions, Chinese officials also expressed a desire for clarity on which sectors of the Canadian economy are deemed national security risks. The Canadian government announced in 2025 that it would conduct enhanced reviews for foreign investments across 11 sensitive technology sectors, including artificial intelligence and robotics. Gignac stressed the importance of identifying these sectors early to avoid prolonged uncertainty.
While Gignac refrained from addressing Canada’s concerns regarding China’s treatment of the Uyghur population in Xinjiang, he did advocate for the removal of travel restrictions on all Canadian MPs, including those known for their critical stance on the Chinese government. “Reciprocity is crucial for normalising our relationship,” he asserted, referring to China’s sanctions on members of the Canadian House of Commons subcommittee on international human rights.
These sanctions were imposed following Canada’s alignment with the U.S., the UK, and the EU in condemning human rights violations in Xinjiang.
A Renewed Optimism in Business Relations
The thaw in diplomatic relations has instilled renewed confidence among Canadian and Chinese business leaders. Gignac noted the significance of high-level meetings between Prime Minister Carney and President Xi Jinping, stating, “The tone from the top is very important. Carney’s visit serves as a green light for Chinese companies to engage with Canada once more.”
In January, Carney’s trip to China led to a strategic partnership agreement, permitting the importation of up to 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles annually, while reducing tariffs on Canadian canola and seafood. The recent visit by Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne further solidified financial ties between the two nations, with plans for Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu to visit soon.
Why it Matters
The unfolding diplomatic relations between Canada and China hold significant implications for global trade dynamics and geopolitical strategies in the Indo-Pacific region. As China seeks to cement its position within the CPTPP, Canada’s response will not only shape bilateral trade relations but also influence broader international partnerships. The potential for improved trade ties, coupled with the resolution of national security concerns, could redefine Canada’s economic landscape, paving the way for more robust engagement with one of the world’s largest economies.
