Canada to Persist with Trade Diversification Despite U.S. Tariff Threats

Canada will continue pursuing a trade diversification strategy to reduce dependence on the United States, despite renewed tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. Foreign Minister Anita Anand said Ottawa is not negotiating a free trade agreement with China but aims to double non-U.S. exports within ten years and is engaging with China and India for trade and resource deals. The move followed a recent agreement to lower tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in exchange for food trade concessions, which drew criticism in Washington. Energy Minister Tim Hodgson is in India to discuss critical minerals, uranium and LNG; Governor Mark Carney plans visits to India and Australia. Anand emphasized the Canada–U.S. relationship remains strong: U.S. goods exports to Canada were about $280 billion and imports from Canada $322 billion in the first ten months of last year, with auto manufacturing tightly integrated. Economists warn a full U.S. tariff escalation would hit Canada harder, but many view a complete 100% tariff as unlikely. Key figures: Anita Anand (Canada’s Foreign Minister), President Donald Trump, Tim Hodgson (Energy Minister), Mark Carney (visit planned), Scott Bessent (U.S. Treasury Secretary quoted).