Canada, Thailand Advance Trade Talks as Leaders Mark 65 Years of Relations
Canada Thailand Free Trade Talks Gain Momentum
OTTAWA — Canada and Thailand are looking to deepen economic ties as Prime Minister Mark Carney and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul discussed expanding trade, investment and regional cooperation during a phone call on June 23.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Carney congratulated Anutin on his election victory earlier this year before the two leaders turned their attention to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing trade negotiations.
The conversation comes as Canada and Thailand prepare to mark the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026.
Growing Economic Partnership
The two prime ministers highlighted the strength of the Canada-Thailand relationship, which currently supports approximately $7.4 billion in annual two-way trade.
Officials said the leaders discussed opportunities to increase cooperation in several strategic sectors, including clean energy, advanced electronics, defence and digital technology.
A key focus of the discussion was ongoing negotiations toward a Canada-Thailand free trade agreement, which both leaders said could reduce trade barriers, expand business opportunities and encourage greater investment between the two countries.
Canada Looks to Southeast Asia
Carney also emphasized Canada’s growing engagement with Southeast Asia, a region that has become increasingly important to Canada’s trade diversification strategy.
The leaders discussed ongoing negotiations toward a broader Canada-ASEAN free trade agreement involving the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the proposed agreement is expected to add more than $1.6 billion to Canada’s economy while providing Canadian businesses with preferential access to a regional market of nearly 700 million consumers and an economy valued at more than $5 trillion.
Expanding Opportunities for Canadian Businesses
The federal government views Southeast Asia as one of the world’s fastest-growing economic regions, offering opportunities for Canadian exporters, investors and technology companies.
Enhanced trade agreements with Thailand and ASEAN could improve market access for Canadian businesses while supporting supply chain diversification and economic growth.
The discussions reflect Canada’s broader efforts to strengthen commercial relationships across the Indo-Pacific region and reduce dependence on traditional export markets.
Looking Ahead
The leaders welcomed the upcoming 65th anniversary of Canada-Thailand relations and agreed to remain in close contact.
Prime Minister Carney also invited Prime Minister Anutin to visit Canada as part of the anniversary celebrations.
The discussions signal continued momentum in Canada’s efforts to expand economic partnerships across Southeast Asia while strengthening ties with key regional allies.
Source: Prime Minister’s Office, June 23, 2026.
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