Canada’s Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne concluded his visit to China without securing immediate relief from Chinese tariffs on Canadian pork exports, but emphasized that the trip helped strengthen long-term diplomatic and economic engagement between the two countries. Speaking to CBC News at the end of his meetings in Beijing, Champagne said relationship-building was the primary objective of the visit and warned against expecting quick resolutions on complex trade disputes.
Canadian pork exports remain subject to a 25 percent surtax imposed by China after Canada introduced a 100 percent tariff on Chinese electric vehicles. While some agricultural trade tensions have eased earlier this year following an agreement allowing limited Chinese electric vehicle imports into Canada at reduced rates, tariffs affecting pork and seafood exports remain unresolved.
Champagne told CBC News that meaningful progress in China often requires patience and continued engagement rather than immediate outcomes. He explained that strengthening trust and maintaining dialogue are essential steps toward expanding trade ties, adding that simply showing up for discussions is already an important part of the process.
During the visit, Champagne met with Chinese Finance Minister Lan Fo’an and Vice-Premier He Lifeng to explore ways Canadian financial institutions could expand their presence in China. According to Champagne, discussions focused on improving access for Canadian banks to obtain additional licences and participate more broadly in China’s bond markets, which could support exporters seeking deeper access to the Chinese economy. He also indicated that a reciprocal visit from Vice-Premier Lifeng to Canada is expected in the near future.
The minister also raised concerns about supply chain transparency and human rights standards during meetings with Chinese officials. Speaking to reporters, Champagne said Canada continues to prioritize trade practices that meet international expectations regarding labour protections and supply chain integrity. The discussions followed controversy involving Liberal MP Michael Ma, who recently questioned whether forced labour had been directly observed in parts of China during a parliamentary committee session. Ma later clarified his remarks and issued an apology.
Prime Minister Mark Carney also addressed the issue earlier this week, saying Canada maintains strong safeguards to prevent goods produced through forced labour from entering domestic supply chains. As reported by CBC News, Champagne said Chinese officials understood Canada’s position clearly during his visit and acknowledged that maintaining open dialogue on these concerns remains an important part of the broader relationship between the two countries.
