Cabinet Retreat Highlights Economy, China EV Pitch and Buy-Canadian Shift

Prime Minister Mark Carney and his cabinet continued a two-day retreat in Quebec City, focusing on core themes of economic growth, affordability and national security in advance of Parliament’s return. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said affordability remains a central priority, with discussions also centred on job creation and the broader economic outlook.

In Ottawa, China’s ambassador to Canada, Wang Di, defended a recent agreement allowing limited imports of Chinese electric vehicles, pitching it as a chance to partner with Canadian autoworkers, foster jobs and build more affordable EVs for consumers. He described such cooperation as “win-win” and said Beijing supports investments that would grow Canada’s manufacturing sector — comments that come amid criticism from provincial officials and labour unions who fear cheap imports could undercut domestic production.

Relations with the United States also featured in the roundup, as U.S. President Donald Trump rescinded an invitation for Carney to join his new Board of Peace initiative, underscoring lingering diplomatic friction following Carney’s widely noted speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

Economic nationalism is showing signs of resurgence in consumer behaviour as well. Analysts say a renewed buy-Canadian movement at grocery stores and among shoppers could gain traction again this year, spurred by trade uncertainties, tariffs and global economic tensions — particularly as the Canada–United States–Mexico trade deal comes up for renegotiation. The trend, which emerged during past disputes, reflects growing public interest in supporting domestic brands and reducing reliance on foreign products.