by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 9:40 AM ET, Fri January 16, 2026
Guiyang, China. (Photo Credit: SeanPavonePhoto/Adobe)
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping announced a new partnership between Canada and China on January 16, 2026, marking a major shift in bilateral relations.
After nearly a decade without a Canadian prime ministerial visit to Beijing, Carney confirmed that Canadian citizens will soon be able to enter China without a visa.
“I’m very pleased to share that President Xi in our meeting today has committed to ensuring visa-free access for Canadians travelling to China,” Carney told reporters.
“The Prime Minister welcomed President Xi’s commitment to introducing visa-free access for Canadians travelling to China,” a statement added, noting the step aims to strengthen tourism, education, and cultural exchanges between the two countries.
Carney highlighted the existing ties between the nations, including a Canadian Chinese diaspora of about 2 million people and more than 300,000 Chinese visitors to Canada in 2024. “These links position both nations to benefit from enhanced travel,” he said.
“At its best, the Canada-China relationship has created massive opportunities for both our peoples. By leveraging our strengths and focusing on trade, energy, agri-food, and areas where we can make huge gains, we are forging a new strategic partnership that builds on the best of our past, reflects the world as it is today, and benefits the people of both our nations,” Carney added.
No start date has been set, but once implemented, Canada will join 45 countries whose citizens can stay in China visa-free for up to 30 days through 2026.
The agreement also covers cooperation in public safety and security, global governance, and climate action.
Canada will allow 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles at preferential tariffs, "with an import price of $35,000 CAD or less," while China will cut canola seed tariffs to 15% and lift barriers on key Canadian exports, unlocking nearly $3 billion in trade.
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