Carney Embarks on Asia-Pacific Trade Tour to Diversify Canada’s Economy
TORONTO – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has begun a trade mission to India, Australia, and Japan, aiming to bolster economic ties and reduce Canada’s reliance on the United States. The trip underscores a strategic shift towards diversifying international trade as concerns grow over potential economic disruptions from the U.S.
Mending Ties with India
Carney’s visit to India, commencing on Thursday, February 26th, is particularly significant as both nations seek to repair relations strained after a period of tension. The two countries are working to reset ties following a dispute in 2023 regarding the death of a Sikh separatist in Canada . Carney and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are expected to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Previous efforts to mend the relationship included inviting Modi to the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, in 2025 , and a visit to India by Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand late last year , which led to the resumption of trade talks.
Expanding Partnerships in Australia and Japan
Following India, Carney will travel to Australia to address Parliament – the first such address by a Canadian Prime Minister in nearly 20 years – and meet with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to discuss defense and advancements in artificial intelligence . The tour will conclude in Tokyo with a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, focusing on clean energy, critical minerals, and food security .
Shifting Away from US Economic Dependence
Carney’s initiative reflects a broader strategy to diversify Canada’s trade portfolio amid escalating trade tensions with the United States. He has stated that Canada should not anticipate a return to the previous global economic order once President Donald Trump leaves office . The Prime Minister has set a goal to double Canada’s non-U.S. Exports within the next decade, citing the negative impact of American tariffs on investment .
Addressing US Trade Threats
The move comes as President Trump continues to threaten Canada’s economic interests with tariffs on goods such as automobiles, aluminum, lumber, and steel . Trump has also repeatedly suggested the possibility of annexing Canada and has criticized trade agreements with other nations .
Recent Trade Agreements
Canada has recently finalized 12 new economic and security agreements, including a deal with China to lower trade levies, which is expected to unlock over $7 billion in export markets for Canadian agricultural products . Carney has emphasized the importance of respecting Canada’s sovereignty in the face of external pressures .