Carney Pushes India Partnership as Trump Tariffs Force Canada’s Asia Pivot
Canada pivots to Asia amid Trump trade clash.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted "progress" with India on Saturday, pushing new global partnerships to counter US tariff threats. Speaking after the APEC summit in South Korea, he praised the Asia-Pacific region—home to 60% of global GDP—as key to Canada’s future. This follows President Trump’s abrupt end to trade talks with Ottawa, triggered by an Ontario anti-tariff ad he called “egregious.” Carney stressed building ties abroad to reduce reliance on the US, insisting the shift is urgent and moving fast.
He cited a new free trade deal with Indonesia, talks with the Philippines and Thailand, and a “turning point” with China. On India, Carney noted no direct meeting with PM Modi at APEC, but said Foreign Minister Anita Anand and others held key talks. Last month, Anand visited India and, with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, launched a major roadmap for trade, critical minerals, and energy cooperation—efforts to repair ties strained since the 2023 killing of a Sikh separatist.
The Canada-India reset began under Carney, who met Modi at the G7 in June 2025. From diplomatic freezes to renewed dialogue, both nations now eye gains: Canada seeks markets for potash and lentils, while tapping India’s green tech and digital sectors. Carney plans to attend India’s AI Impact Summit in 2026, signaling deeper commitment amid a strategic pivot away from over-dependence on the US.
Also Read: Trump Refuses to Restart Trade Talks With Canada Over “Fraudulent” Anti-Tariff Ad
Tensions with Trump escalated after Carney apologized for the Ontario ad, which used a 1987 Reagan clip against tariffs. Trump slapped a 10% tariff on Canadian goods and halted talks—despite a recent White House meeting. Carney clarified federal control over trade and hopes for resumed dialogue, but remains firm: Canada must diversify now.
Carney’s Asia focus, led by India, marks a bold economic reorientation. It shields Canada from US volatility while unlocking growth in the world’s fastest-rising region. This isn’t just survival—it’s a vision for balanced, resilient prosperity.
Also Read: Canada to Double Non-US Exports as Trump Tariffs Threaten Economy
