Canada's exports to China rose 30% in first half of 2026

Canadian exports to China increased 30.1% year over year in the first half of 2026, reaching $21.74 billion, according to trade data analyzed by the Canada China Business Council and the University of Alberta's China Institute. Total goods trade between the two countries rose 3.6% to $66.6 billion, while imports from China fell 5.8% to $44.86 billion. The gains were led by energy and mineral shipments, which made up most of Canada's exports to China. Crude oil and liquefied propane rose sharply, and metal ore exports also increased. The report says the results reflect closer trade ties as Canada looks to diversify away from the U.S. amid tariff tensions with Washington. Officials and researchers said recent policy changes helped support the shift, including renewed market access for Canadian agricultural products and reduced Chinese tariffs on some goods. The report also noted that the export gains were concentrated in a limited group of commodities, rather than showing broadbased improvement across all sectors.