Pakistan and Canada Finalize Canola Export Plan

Canada and Pakistan have announced their decision to support the export of Canadian canola to the Pakistani market, according to a joint statement issued late Monday. The development comes as Canada seeks to expand its export destinations after China imposed preliminary anti-dumping duties on Canadian canola earlier this year, following Ottawa’s decision to apply a 100 percent tariff on Chinese electric vehicles in 2024.

The statement noted that Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand on October 30. During the call, both sides reaffirmed the long-standing partnership between the two countries and highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation in sectors of shared interest.

According to the joint declaration, both nations agreed to simplify the process for exporting Canadian canola to Pakistan, acknowledging the growing opportunities within Pakistan’s expanding agricultural and food market. The ministers also expressed satisfaction with the progress of the first round of negotiations on a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement. Led by Pakistan’s Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh and Canada’s Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu, the agreement is seen as a vital step toward creating a predictable and transparent investment landscape.

The statement added that Pakistan and Canada are eager to broaden collaboration in the fields of energy security and critical minerals. Both governments recognized the expanding role of Canadian companies in contributing to Pakistan’s mineral development ambitions and its clean energy goals.

Looking ahead, the ministers highlighted the importance of the upcoming sixth round of bilateral consultations, which will serve as a forum to advance mutual priorities, strengthen both government and private sector engagement, and explore further opportunities for strategic cooperation.

The joint statement concluded by affirming that Pakistan and Canada remain dedicated to promoting peace, sustainable development, and inclusive economic growth at the bilateral and global levels.