Pets Canada explores trade mission to China

Pets Canada is calling on members to help shape a potential Canada–China Pet Trade Mission in 2027, following significant recent developments in trade relations between Canada and the People’s Republic of China.

In a statement released by Global Affairs Canada and the Prime Minister’s Office on January 16, 2026, Canada and China confirmed they have reached a preliminary agreement-in-principle to increase trade between the two countries. This renewed agreement expects China to accelerate the resumption of exports of Canadian beef, pet food, animal genetics, and other products, marking an important signal for the Canadian pet sector, according to a press statement by the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.’

Against this backdrop, Pets Canada is exploring the possibility of organising a Canada–China Pet Trade Mission in 2027 and would like to gauge member interest in participating, as the trade association declared in a press release. The proposed mission would provide an opportunity for Pets Canada members to attend one of several major pet industry trade shows in China, offering direct exposure to one of the world’s largest and fastest-evolving pet markets.

To help assess interest and plan next steps, Pets Canada is inviting members to complete a one-question survey via the link provided here. Member input will directly inform whether and how the mission proceeds. Pets Canada will continue to update members on this topic as talks develop.

The wider trade agreement provides important context. China is the world’s second largest economy and Canada’s second largest single-country trading partner, with bilateral merchandise and services trade totalling 130.9 billion dollars in 2024. Through this agreement-in-principle, Canada and China aim to address long-standing trade issues while establishing a track for major new investments benefiting workers and businesses.

As part of the agreement, both countries have committed to reviewing progress and implementation in three years, alongside continued work on additional trade irritants of economic importance. Alongside sectors such as electric vehicles, canola, seafood, steel and aluminium, the pet sector is explicitly referenced through the anticipated resumption of exports of Canadian pet food and animal genetics.

For pet industry businesses watching international market opportunities, Pets Canada’s proposed trade mission represents a timely and practical next step. Members are encouraged to make their voices heard and help shape Canada’s future engagement with the Chinese pet market.