Maninder Sidhu, Canada’s Minister of International Trade, concluded his visit to the Gulf region on January 13, 2026, focusing on enhancing trade relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Accompanied by a high-level Canadian business delegation, Minister Sidhu aimed to build on the recent engagement by Prime Minister Mark Carney in the UAE. The trip was part of Canada’s strategy to diversify trade and strengthen its global competitiveness, with a goal of doubling non-U.S. exports over the next decade.
During his visit, Minister Sidhu and Sultan bin Saeed Al Mansoori, the UAE’s Envoy to Canada and Chairman of Dubai Chambers, witnessed the signing of a significant contract. The agreement between Canadian firm Alexa Translations and Al Tamimi & Company will deliver artificial intelligence (AI)-powered legal translation solutions, highlighting the growing collaboration between the two nations.
Strengthening Economic Ties
Minister Sidhu held discussions with senior government officials and industry leaders to bolster bilateral trade and investment. Meetings included a session with Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Trade. They explored the expanding economic relationship between Canada and the UAE, which includes an upcoming visit by a UAE business delegation to Canada later this year.
The Minister emphasized the significance of the Canada-UAE Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, signed during Prime Minister Carney’s visit in November 2025. This agreement, along with ongoing negotiations for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA), is expected to reduce tariffs, simplify regulations, and enhance market access for Canadian exporters.
Focus on Innovation and Market Opportunities
Minister Sidhu actively engaged with the Canada-UAE Business Council and the local business community in Dubai. These sessions provided a platform to showcase Canada’s strengths in various sectors, including AI, advanced manufacturing, aerospace, energy, financial services, infrastructure, and mining. The presence of the Canadian business delegation, which included representatives from information and communications technology, clean technology, and energy sectors, underscored Canada’s commitment to expanding its footprint in the Gulf region.
The recent efforts by both Prime Minister Carney and Minister Sidhu reflect Canada’s determination to strengthen economic partnerships and position its businesses for success on the global stage. The initiatives taken during this visit are expected to foster long-term growth and cooperation between Canada and the UAE, ensuring that both nations can benefit from shared opportunities in the evolving global market.
