The collapse of trust in global trade — driven by the resurgence of protectionism and the weakening of rules-based institutions — has reshaped the global economic landscape. As Mary Ng writes (
https://www.hinrichfoundation.com/research/article/sustainable/trade-in-an-uncertain-world/) when trust erodes, trade is no longer a reliable engine of prosperity but a tool of power and unpredictability. Countries like Canada, long champions of open markets and stable rules, have responded by deepening diversification and forging strong alliances, especially in the Indo-Pacific.
Under PM Carney, Canada is doubling down on this strategic pivot. His government is expected to fast-track trade-related investments in energy, critical minerals and infrastructure. These sectors are not just economic priorities but also national resilience assets, ensuring Canada remains a competitive and trusted partner in a fragmented world.
For Asian businesses and governments, this presents a major opportunity. Canada’s enhanced market access — through agreements like the CPTPP, the recently concluded Canada-Indonesia CEPA, and the upcoming ASEAN-Canada Free Trade Agreement — offers a gateway to Canada and beyond. Through Canada’s overall network of trade agreements, Asian businesses gain preferential access to over 65% of the global economy and 1.5 billion customers worldwide.
But trade agreements alone are not enough; they must be backed by robust projects and tangible investments. Asian businesses can leverage Canada’s stable framework to co-invest in energy transition technologies, green and digital infrastructure, and supply chain stability.
This strategic alignment reinforces a new vision for trade: agreements lay the ground rules, but it is the substantive economic activity — the “heft” of what we build, produce, and innovate together — that brings them to life. By weaving together trade, investment, and shared trust, Canada and its Indo-Pacific partners have the chance to co-create a modern, resilient economic future that benefits workers, businesses, and communities on both sides of the Pacific.
In partnership with:
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