Canada Seeks Input On New Free Trade Agreement Negotiations
Trade Update • December 16, 2026
Key Points:
- Canada opened public consultations on four ongoing or planned free trade negotiations.
- The consultations cover India, the United Arab Emirates, Thailand, and Mercosur.
- The process supports Canada’s goal to expand exports beyond the U.S. market.
- Input from businesses, workers, and stakeholders will shape Canada’s negotiating positions.
- Submissions remain open until January 27, 2026.
Canada launched public consultations on four free trade agreement negotiations as part of Canada’s broader international trade strategy. The announcement came from the Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, on December 13, 2025.
The consultations aim to gather input from Canadians to guide negotiating priorities, improve market access, and support long-term export growth. These agreements form part of Canada’s effort to strengthen trade connections with fast-growing economies and reduce reliance on the U.S. market.
Trade Agreements Open for Consultations
Canada invited feedback on the following negotiations:
- Canada–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
- Canada–United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
- Canada–Thailand Free Trade Agreement
- Canada–Mercosur Free Trade Agreement
These negotiations support Canada’s plan to double exports to non-U.S. markets over the next decade. The government aims to build diversified and reliable trade relationships that contribute to economic growth and job creation across Canada.
Public Participation and Timeline
Public consultations allow businesses, industry groups, labor organizations, and individuals to share priorities and concerns. This input helps ensure Canada’s trade agreements reflect domestic interests and economic realities.
- Consultation deadline: January 27, 2026
Submitted feedback: Used to inform Canada’s negotiation strategies
Minister of International Trade’s Statement
“Canada is working to strengthen trade with reliable partners around the world and aims to double Canadian exports to non-U.S. markets in the next decade, which would generate $300 billion more in trade. Pursuing new trade negotiations will help reach this objective, open new markets and opportunities for our workers and businesses and create high-paying jobs across the country as part of our trade diversification strategy.”
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