The Japan-Canada Chambers Council convened a key meeting in Ottawa, bringing together government officials, business leaders, and industry stakeholders to explore new opportunities in Canada’s $35 billion two-way trade relationship with Japan.
The event saw participation from Japan’s Ambassador to Canada, H.E. Kanji Yamanouchi; Canada’s Ambassador to Japan, H.E. Ian McKay; Canadian Chamber of Commerce CEO Candace Laing; and Maninder Sidhu, Parliamentary Secretary for International Trade.
Japan remains Canada’s fourth-largest trading partner, with trade spanning key sectors such as automotive, technology, clean energy, and agriculture. The meeting emphasized the shared commitment of both nations to strengthen economic collaboration, enhance investment opportunities, and boost trade diversification.
Maninder Sidhu MP highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating:
“Canada and Japan share a strong and growing economic relationship, and today’s discussions reaffirmed our commitment to building on this foundation. As we look to expand trade, we are creating opportunities for businesses and workers in both countries.”
He further emphasized the role of businesses in driving economic growth:
“The energy and enthusiasm in the room today reflect the strength of our economic ties. Canadian and Japanese businesses are stepping up, seizing the moment, and finding new ways to collaborate. Our government will continue working to remove barriers, foster innovation, and support businesses as they expand globally.”
With Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy in place, discussions also focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and digital trade. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) remains a key driver in boosting trade flows between the two countries.
As the discussions concluded, Sidhu reiterated Canada’s long-term vision:
“Japan is a critical partner in Canada’s trade diversification strategy, and we are committed to strengthening our collaboration to unlock even greater economic potential. Today’s meeting was an important step toward that goal.”
The Japan-Canada Chambers Council will continue to serve as a platform for businesses from both nations to engage in dialogue, share insights, and advocate for policies that facilitate bilateral trade and investment. The success of this meeting highlights the mutual ambition to increase trade, create jobs, and build a more resilient economy for the future.