The Edmonton Chamber was proud to host Consul General Zhao Liying (Calgary Consulate-General, serving Alberta, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories) for a business‑focused discussion at the World Trade Centre, followed by a panel Q&A with Vice Consul Liang Lin, Ron Horton, and Hubert Lau. A fully sold-out room at the World Trade Centre featured candid advice from China's top diplomat and leaders in the region, and insider intelligence on how to close deals in one of the world's largest markets.
Key Takeaways
Consul General Zhao pointed to a steadier policy environment and improving conditions for trade and investment. Recent tariff adjustments, including on electric vehicles and select agricultural products, have helped Alberta beef and canola return to the Chinese market. With $15 billion in bilateral trade last year, there's real momentum to build on. China's recently adopted growth targets of 4.5–5 per cent reflect an ambitious medium-term outlook, and officials emphasized sustained demand for liquefied natural gas, crude oil, and high-quality Canadian agri-food products.
All the speakers highlighted people‑to‑people connections, including the sister‑city relationship celebrated at Harbin Gate, as foundations for business trust and long‑term partnerships. Companies who build relationships, prepare extensively, and then seek out business opportunities have the most success. Companies who see success often have people making connections and lining things up years in advance of any deals being signed.
What’s Next?
- The 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE) is taking place November 5-10th, 2026. The Bank of China is hosting an information event in Calgary coming up on April 28th at the Dentons office in downtown Calgary. This is an in‑person and virtual session designed to showcase the 2026 CIIE and connect Canadian exporters with opportunities to access China’s growing market and strengthen China–Canada trade cooperation. RSVP to CIIE@bankofchina.ca
- For those in a position to begin building relationships, the China International Consumer Products Expo is coming soon (Apr 13–18, Haikou, China), where Canada is the Country of Honour.
- Engage the Canada–China Friendship Society of Edmonton, the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (hosting their Annual National Conference in Edmonton on May 7), and upcoming delegation opportunities.
The Edmonton Chamber thanks Consul General Zhao Liying, Vice Consul Liang Lin, Ron Horton, Hubert Lau, the Canada-China Friendship Society of Edmonton, and Sinocan Supply for contributing to a candid, practical discussion. We will continue helping members navigate international opportunities while managing risk.
Have your say.
The Edmonton Chamber wants to hear from you. What are the top issues and priorities for your business? Start the conversation by writing to policy@edmontonchamber.com
