The representative of Taiwan in Canada has expressed concerns about possible intentional delays by the Liberal government in finalizing a trade agreement with Taipei, possibly to maintain its ties with China. Harry Tseng, head of Taipei’s Economic and Cultural Office in Canada, revealed that the negotiation teams from both Ottawa and Taipei have completed all necessary steps for the trade cooperation framework agreement since April.
Tseng emphasized that the document is fully prepared for signatures, with versions available in English, French, and Mandarin, indicating the advanced stage of the agreement. He stressed the importance of honoring the progress made so far. Taiwan, a de facto independent island that China regards as a province, ranks as Canada’s sixth-largest trading partner in Asia.
The framework agreement outlines various areas of collaboration, including online commerce, energy, net-zero transition, and supply chain resilience, especially focusing on semiconductors. Tseng raised concerns that Canada may prioritize improving relations with China over Taiwan, citing a contradiction between Prime Minister Mark Carney’s call for trade diversification and the delay in signing the agreement with Taiwan.
Carney responded to Tseng’s worries, affirming the government’s ability to engage in trade with both Taiwan and China simultaneously. He emphasized ongoing efforts to enhance trade relations with China, particularly in sectors like automotive and clean energy. Global Affairs Canada confirmed the conclusion of a trade cooperation framework agreement with Taiwan in March 2025 and is currently reviewing the next steps.
Carney’s recent visit to Beijing to establish a new strategic partnership, including tariff removals, reflects his pragmatic approach towards China since taking office. Despite tensions, Canada maintains unofficial but significant relations with Taiwan in economic, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges as part of its Indo-Pacific strategy launched in 2022.
