Canada-China Trade Booms as Exports to China Surge 30% Amid US Tensions

Canada's exports to China surged by 30% in the first half of 2026, while overall trade between the two countries increased by 3.6%, according to Statistics Canada data analyzed by researchers.

The numbers reflect a re-engagement between Canada and China, part of an effort to diversify the Canadian economy amid deteriorating relations with the US.

Energy and minerals dominated exports to China in the first half of 2026, making up 58.4% of all domestic exports, with energy growing by 81.8%. Metal ores and non-metallic mineral exports rose 29%.

Bijan Ahmadi, executive director of the Canada-China Business Council, said this was a record for Canadian exports to China in the first half of the year.