Carney to Visit China in First Canadian PM Trip Since 2017
Ottawa, Jan. 7, 2026 — Prime Minister Mark Carney will travel to China next week, marking the first visit by a Canadian prime minister since 2017.
The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed the trip will take place from Jan. 13 to Jan. 17.
Officials say the visit follows renewed diplomatic engagement between Ottawa and Beijing.
Trade and Economic Talks Expected
Government officials say the visit will focus on trade, energy, and agriculture.
China remains Canada’s second-largest trading partner.
Ties between the two countries have faced strain in recent years.
Disputes over tariffs and market access have affected exporters and farmers.
Canada imposed steep tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and industrial metals.
China responded with tariffs on Canadian agricultural products.
Officials say resolving trade barriers will be a key priority during the visit.
Exporters hope the talks will reopen doors for Canadian products.
Recent Diplomatic Engagement
Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping last met at an international summit in late 2025.
That meeting marked the highest-level engagement between the two countries in years.
The invitation for a formal visit followed those discussions.
Officials say the trip aims to stabilize relations and restore dialogue.
The Prime Minister’s Office has not confirmed whether a bilateral meeting with Xi is scheduled.
Details of the itinerary remain limited.
Balancing Security and Strategy
Beyond trade, talks may include global security and energy cooperation.
Canada has raised concerns about regional stability and international rules.
Observers say the visit reflects a shift toward broader trade diversification.
Canada has sought to reduce dependence on a single trading partner.
Uncertainty in global markets has increased pressure to expand exports elsewhere.
China remains a major destination for agricultural and resource products.
What Comes Next
Officials say more details will be released closer to departure.
The visit will test whether both countries can reset a complex relationship.
For Canada, the trip signals renewed engagement after years of caution.
The outcome may shape trade and diplomacy in the years ahead.
