China said on Monday that a preliminary trade agreement with Canada does not target any third parties, responding to US threats of imposing 100-percent tariffs on Canadian products if the deal proceeds. Beijing issued the clarification as tensions rise over the proposed agreement, which includes potential tariff relief and expanded travel privileges between China and Canada.
Beijing Defends Agreement and Promotes Win-Win Cooperation
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun told a regular press briefing that the agreement focuses solely on strengthening bilateral ties. He said China and Canada have established a new type of strategic partnership based on mutual benefit and cooperation. Moreover, he stressed that the deal does not target Washington or any other country. Guo added that China encourages nations to manage state-to-state relations through a win-win approach rather than a zero-sum mindset, and through dialogue instead of confrontation.
The preliminary deal, announced earlier this month, would see Beijing reduce tariffs on Canadian canola imports. In addition, China would grant visa-free travel to Canadian citizens, a move that could boost tourism, business exchanges, and people-to-people links. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the agreement during his visit to Beijing as he seeks to diversify Canada’s international partnerships.
US Pressure and Political Reactions Intensify
However, the United States reacted sharply over the weekend. Washington warned that it would impose 100-percent tariffs on Canadian products if the agreement moves forward, arguing that the deal could allow China to “dump goods” into North American markets. The warning adds to existing trade tensions between the United States and Canada, which began after the Trump administration imposed import duties on Canadian goods.
President Donald Trump escalated his criticism on Sunday through a social media post, claiming that negotiations between Ottawa and Beijing showed China was “successfully and completely taking over the once Great Country of Canada.” His comments quickly drew attention across international media.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also voiced concern, saying American officials cannot allow Canada to become a channel for Chinese goods entering the US market. Meanwhile, analysts expect diplomatic engagement to continue as all sides seek to protect their economic interests.
