As global trade dynamics continue to shift, Canada is sharpening its focus on high-growth international markets—and the Gulf region is firmly in its sights.
From January 7 to 14, 2026, the Honourable Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade, will lead a senior-level Canadian business delegation to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, advancing Canada’s efforts to strengthen economic partnerships and unlock new commercial opportunities across the region.
The visit underscores Canada’s commitment to trade diversification and long-term economic resilience. Throughout the mission, Minister Sidhu will meet with government officials and business leaders to deepen commercial ties, promote Canadian innovation, and support companies seeking to expand their footprint in some of the world’s fastest-growing markets.
A central focus of the visit will be opening new markets for Canadian exporters and investors while reinforcing Canada’s reputation as a trusted, forward-looking economic partner. The minister will participate in industry events, engage in ongoing trade and investment agreement discussions, and tour sites that showcase successful Canadian-led projects and partnerships already delivering results on the ground.
Trade missions such as this one play a strategic role in advancing Canada’s ambitious goal of doubling non-U.S. exports over the next decade. By bringing Canadian companies directly into conversations with international decision-makers, these missions help secure new agreements, strengthen economic relationships, and position Canada as a global destination for innovation and investment.
The Gulf region presents significant opportunities across a range of priority sectors where Canadian expertise is globally competitive. Clean technology, energy, infrastructure, aerospace and advanced manufacturing, information and communications technology, and artificial intelligence are among the key areas where Canadian firms are well positioned to contribute—and benefit—as Gulf economies continue to diversify and modernize.
As Minister Sidhu emphasized ahead of the mission:
“This visit to the Gulf will accelerate new economic opportunities for Canada, support our companies in securing high-value contracts, and open doors in some of the world’s fastest-growing markets. I look forward to strengthening commercial ties with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates to drive trade and investment that delivers real benefits for Canadian workers and businesses.”
By strengthening ties with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, Canada is reinforcing its global trade strategy—one that prioritizes diversification, competitiveness, and sustainable growth, while delivering tangible benefits for Canadian workers and businesses at home.
