Canada’s Minister of International Trade, Maninder Sidhu, has concluded an official visit to Singapore and Vietnam focused on expanding trade ties, promoting Canadian agri-food exports, and advancing cooperation across the Indo-Pacific region, the federal government said Wednesday.
During the trip, Sidhu met government officials and industry leaders to underline Canada’s support for free trade and to push for deeper economic integration with Southeast Asia. The Indo-Pacific is viewed by Ottawa as a critical growth market, particularly for Canadian agriculture and food exports, and remains central to the country’s long-term economic strategy.
In Vietnam, Sidhu participated in an agri-food showcase hosted by supermarket chain BRG Mart, which features Canadian products including apples, oatmeal, and frozen beef. Discussions with Vietnamese stakeholders focused on strengthening supply chains and expanding market access for Canadian producers.
Vietnam’s expanding economy and food demand were key themes throughout the visit. Sidhu said the country’s projected growth will increase the need for stable food supplies, highlighting opportunities for Canadian expertise in agriculture and food security.
He also pointed to ongoing work between Canadian and Vietnamese agriculture ministries to resolve access barriers, reopen markets for Canadian salmon, and protect pork exports in the event of an African Swine Fever outbreak in Canada.
Meetings in both Singapore and Vietnam emphasized the importance of a potential free trade agreement between Canada and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Ottawa views closer ties with ASEAN as a pathway to diversify exports and reduce reliance on traditional markets.
As part of the visit, Sidhu announced C$7.3 million in funding for the Vietnam Initiative for Strengthening Trade, aimed at supporting economic and legal reforms that facilitate international commerce. He also unveiled $20 million, about C$27.4 million, in support for Vietnamese farmers and agribusinesses to adopt more sustainable practices.
The Indo-Pacific is Canada’s second-largest regional merchandise export market after the United States, with Vietnam ranking as Canada’s largest trading partner within ASEAN. Sidhu’s trip follows earlier outreach to Indonesia and the Philippines as Canada continues to pursue broader trade opportunities across Southeast Asia.
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