Exploratory discussions on a possible Canada-China free trade agreement

On September 22, 2016, Canada and the People’s Republic of China announced the launch of exploratory discussions for a possible Canada-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

Work on these discussions started in the fall of 2016. Face-to-face meetings took place from February 20-24, 2017, in Beijing and from April 24-28, 2017, in Ottawa. A third set of meetings took place in Beijing from July 31 to August 4, 2017.

The discussions give both sides an opportunity to exchange information about each other’s regulations and laws, and to explore the details a possible Canada-China FTA.

It is a priority for the Government of Canada to expand trade and investment with large, fast-growing markets, including China. China is the world’s second largest economy, and Canada’s second largest single-country trading partner.

The Government of Canada recently completed public consultations about a possible agreement. We sought Canadians' views to help define Canada’s interests and identify the best opportunities for such an agreement to create wealth, innovation and jobs for Canadians. While the official consultation period has now ended, we remain committed to hearing from Canadians on their views. We will continue to consult with Canadians, and will hold additional consultations with Canadians if Canada and China decide to proceed to FTA negotiations.

In parallel with the exploratory discussions launched in September 2016, Canada and China are conducting a joint feasibility study to examine the potential economic benefits for both economies of an FTA. Work on the study is ongoing.

Additional links

• What we heard: Public Consultations on a possible Canada-China free trade agreement
• Consulting Canadians on a possible Canada-China free trade agreement
• Canada and China
• Canadian Trade Commissioner Service for China
• Export Development Canada’s China Profile
• Joint Statement Between Canada and the People’s Republic of China
• Canada-China Economic Complementarities Study

Contact point

The Government continues to welcome your views. We invite you to send your comments regarding a possible Canada-China FTA at any time via email:

Chinatrade-consultations-commerceChine@international.gc.ca
Trade Policy and Negotiations - Asia (TCA)
Global Affairs Canada
125 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, ON K1A 0G2
Fax: 613-944-5119