Officials from both sides said the discussions focused on stabilizing trade relations, easing commercial frictions, and restoring dialogue between businesses affected by tariffs and regulatory barriers. The agreed relief is expected to apply to select sectors, though neither government released a detailed list immediately, indicating that technical negotiations are still underway.
The meeting marked the first direct engagement at the highest political level in several years, coming amid broader efforts by Ottawa to diversify trade partnerships while managing strategic tensions with Beijing. Canadian officials described the talks as “frank but constructive,” emphasizing the need to protect national interests while reopening channels for economic cooperation.
For China, the engagement with Canada comes at a time when Beijing is seeking to counter slowing growth and expand trade ties with advanced economies. Chinese state media said both leaders agreed that stable relations serve the interests of businesses and consumers in both countries.
Trade analysts say even modest tariff relief could provide breathing room for exporters who have struggled with higher costs and uncertainty. However, they caution that the move should be seen as a confidence-building step rather than a full reset, given ongoing disagreements over security, human rights, and foreign interference.
Opposition voices in Canada urged transparency, calling on the government to clarify which industries will benefit and how Ottawa plans to balance economic engagement with its values and alliance commitments.
Both sides indicated that further talks will continue at the ministerial and technical levels in the coming weeks. While significant challenges remain, the tariff relief announcement suggests a willingness on both sides to lower tensions and test a more pragmatic path forward in Canada–China relations.