Canada Hopes to Lam Visit Boosts Bilateral Trade
Ottawa views the historic trip as a key step to expand cooperation in energy, tech, and supply chains.
Key points
- Two-way trade between Canada and Vietnam increased from CA$15.7 billion in 2024 to CA$20.6 billion in 2025.
- The visit marks the first trip by a Vietnamese General Secretary to Canada since diplomatic relations began in 1973.
- Canada identifies energy, agriculture, aviation, and technology as primary sectors for expanded cooperation.
Canada has expressed strong anticipation for the upcoming state visit by Vietnam’s top leader, To Lam. According to Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam Jim Nickel, the trip is expected to serve as a significant catalyst for deepening bilateral relations. The diplomatic mission views this engagement as a rare opportunity to accelerate cooperation across a broad spectrum of economic and strategic sectors.
This will be the first time a General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam has visited Canada since diplomatic ties were established in 1973. The ambassador described the event as a historic milestone that could provide the political momentum necessary to elevate the partnership. It marks a continuation of the Comprehensive Partnership framework established in 2017, which has seen steady growth in diplomacy and trade.
Trade Volumes Show Strong Growth
Bilateral economic ties have expanded rapidly in recent years, with two-way trade and investment doubling over the past five years. As reported by VOV.VN, trade figures rose from CA$15.7 billion in 2024 to CA$20.6 billion in 2025. Despite these gains, officials note that there remains substantial room for further expansion, particularly as both nations seek to diversify their trading partners and secure resilient supply chains.
Key Sectors For Future Cooperation
Several industries are identified as priority areas for joint development. Agriculture offers considerable potential for increased two-way investment, while the energy sector is seen as critical for supporting Vietnam’s expanding manufacturing and data center infrastructure. Canada’s strengths in both conventional and renewable energy positions it as a valuable partner in meeting these growing power demands.
Innovation and technology are also central to the discussion, with specific interest in communications, satellite technology, and artificial intelligence. The aviation sector presents complementary advantages, as Vietnam’s industry grows rapidly while Canada possesses established expertise in aerospace manufacturing. These areas are viewed as foundational for long-term economic integration between the two countries.
Strategic Role In The Indo-Pacific
Beyond bilateral benefits, Canada regards Vietnam as a vital component of its broader Indo-Pacific strategy. As the most important trading partner within ASEAN, Vietnam is seen as a gateway to the wider regional market. Strengthening ties with Hanoi is considered essential for Ottawa to build resilient supply chains and maintain its position as a reliable partner in the region.
