Prime Minister Carney to Bolster Canada’s Trade and Investment Ties in Asia-Pacific
The Canadian government is taking significant steps to strengthen its trade and investment ties in the Asia-Pacific region. Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to embark on a key trip to India, Australia, and Japan from February 26 to March 7, 2026. This mission aims to unlock new opportunities for Canadian workers and businesses across critical sectors like trade, energy, technology, and defence.
Strengthening Ties with Key Indo-Pacific Partners
During his visit, Prime Minister Carney will foster closer connections with three of Canada’s strongest partners in the Indo-Pacific: India, Australia, and Japan. These visits aim to enhance security and prosperity through economic collaboration.
Trip Overview
- Destination Countries: India, Australia, Japan
- Travel Dates: February 26 to March 7, 2026
Visit to India
In India, Prime Minister Carney will visit Mumbai and New Delhi. He is scheduled to meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss elevating the Canada-India relationship. Topics will include ambitious partnerships in:
- Trade
- Energy
- Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Talent Development and Culture
- Defence
Discussions will also focus on creating new investment opportunities to benefit both nations.
Engagement with Australia
Following India, the Prime Minister will travel to Sydney and Canberra to meet with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Their agenda will explore cooperation in:
- Defence and Maritime Security
- Critical Minerals
- Trade
- Advanced Technologies, including AI
Carney’s address to both Houses of the Australian Parliament will mark a significant milestone, as it will be the first by a Canadian Prime Minister in nearly two decades. He will also engage with business leaders to encourage investments in Canada.
Partnership with Japan
In Tokyo, Prime Minister Carney is set to meet Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae. The discussions will focus on:
- Mutual Investments
- Partnerships in Clean Energy
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Critical Minerals
- Food Security
Both leaders will discuss efforts to enhance security and mutual defence support, working towards a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Key Economic Statistics
- India: In 2024, Canada’s trade with India reached $30.8 billion, making India its seventh-largest goods and services partner.
- Australia: Bilateral merchandise trade was recorded at $6.1 billion in 2024, with Canadian direct investment in Australia valued at $58.8 billion.
- Japan: The annual bilateral trade between Canada and Japan stands at $36.4 billion, highlighting the importance of this partnership.
These international engagements underscore Canada’s commitment to diversifying its trade and attracting substantial investment, aiming to create new opportunities and strengthen the national economy.
Conclusion
As global dynamics shift, Canada is bolstering its presence in the Asia-Pacific. The initiatives by Prime Minister Carney reflect a strategic approach to enhance trade, investment, and partnerships in critical sectors with key allies.
