Canada aims to expand global exports with new trade office amid US tariffs

The Canadian government has announced a new strategic exports office as part of its plan to diversify trade and increase exports beyond the United States.

According to The Canadian Press, the office will operate under Global Affairs Canada and will focus on removing trade barriers, improving market access and supporting Canadian companies competing for major international contracts.

International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu said the office would help Canada's "best companies win the biggest contracts in the toughest markets around the world."

"Think of the strategic export office as your government-level deal-maker. It brings strategic advocacy, government financing and diplomatic support together in one place."

Sidhu said business groups had told the government Canada was losing contracts because it lacked the coordinated approach used by other countries.

"They would get to the finish line, another state leader would swoop in, a trade minister would swoop and make a call, and billions of dollars of deals would be lost. Better coordination is what's required,” he said.

The government has also launched a strategic exports advisory council, bringing together industry leaders to advise on trade diversification.

According to The Canadian Press, the Liberals aim to double non-US exports over the next decade.

The government also said exports to markets outside the US increased in 2025 compared with the previous year, alongside new trade agreements with Ecuador and the United Arab Emirates.