By Matt Underwood Canada Won’t Back Down on Trade Pivot as Energy Minister Heads to India
Canada’s unwavering stance on diversifying its trade partnerships is a direct response to the precarious position it finds itself in, and rightly so. Relying heavily on one trading partner, especially when that partner becomes unpredictable and potentially hostile, is a risky game. The United States, our closest ally, has seemingly weaponized trade, and backing down now would only exacerbate our vulnerability. The situation demands a proactive approach, and that’s precisely what Canada is doing. It’s about securing our economic future, not simply reacting to the whims of another nation.
The recent China tariff drop, which simply restored trade to its previous state, has been misconstrued as some sort of betrayal by the US. They seem to be painting Canada’s outreach to China as some sort of threat. It’s hard to understand, when the US wants us to be reliant on them, and then gets upset when we aren’t. It’s like they want us under their thumb. That narrative cannot be allowed to take root. The US needs to respect Canada’s sovereignty, plain and simple.
It’s almost comical how the situation has unfolded. Former President Trump, seemingly afraid of China, decided to alienate Canada, then got angry that Canada was seeking other trade partners. It’s like he wanted to make us a state through economic coercion. You simply can’t trust the US to honor its deals anymore, especially when the threat of arbitrary tariffs is constantly hanging over our heads. This is about self-preservation and safeguarding against economic blackmail.
In the face of threats and unpredictability from our largest trading partner, Canada is making the only sensible choice: diversifying its trade relationships. It’s a natural move, and it’s something every sovereign nation has the right to do. And frankly, any country not currently pivoting away from the US is engaging in some degree of negligence. It’s time to move towards partnerships that can withstand the test of time, regardless of the political climate.
The good news is, Canada can survive without the US, even though it will take some significant adjustments. While it may not be ideal, the current situation leaves us with little choice. Any nation that feels threatened by tariffs or bullying from an aggressor has to change course.
Energy Minister’s visit to India is part of that strategic pivot. With the US becoming an increasingly unreliable trading partner, and with Trump’s volatile nature as a constant threat, Canada needs to find new markets and partnerships. The world is changing, and we need to adapt. Canada is right to pursue its own interests.
Yes, there are challenges. We’re not a massive economic bloc like the EU. But if this trip yields even a small benefit, the move is warranted. It will be seen as a slap in the face to the US. India may demand certain concessions before meaningful talks can begin.
Canada is going to have to work around the current diplomatic situation with India. It’s not a secret that Canada has its own reservations regarding the recent activity of India, but this is about economic survival. Building our own identity and forging our own path is essential in today’s world. No more “USA asskissing” for deals, as the saying goes.
Let’s be clear: Canada is not doing anything wrong. Other nations are trying to do the same thing. The entire planet is turning to China for trade. The US is a volatile partner, and the government has created a situation where its trade deals are not honored.
Trump, in his unique way, seems upset that Canada is receiving more positive attention than he is. He’s the one who is creating division and animosity. He’s the one who said that if you can make a deal with China, do it. But now he doesn’t want us to? It’s hypocritical, and quite frankly, dangerous for global trade.
We’re in a precarious position. CUSMA exists, but it’s not the same as a genuine deal. The US is burdened by a staggering debt, and the current administration hasn’t been able to fix the economic woes left behind by the prior administration. Now, other countries are looking at the US’s economic performance and wondering if they want to get tied up in that.
Some have criticized Canada’s actions. But when your trading partner treats you poorly, you move on. The UK will likely be making a trade trip to China soon, too. The world is changing and it’s no surprise that Canada is going to look out for itself.