With proposed FTA, Asean set to be ‘central’ in Canada’s trade diversification

Canada’s proposed free-trade agreement with Asean could help the region expand its sectors ranging from mining to manufacturing and boost Ottawa’s aim to lessen its dependence on the US as both sides seek to accelerate economic diversification, according to analysts.Canadian International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu confirmed with Bloomberg on Tuesday during a visit to Manila that Canada was keen to conclude separate pacts with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the Philippines this year, after Ottawa and the bloc announced initial talks in 2021.The agreement would open new markets and opportunities for Canadian workers and businesses in the region, Sidhu said on the sidelines of a trade meeting with his Philippine counterpart, Cristina Roque, and Finance Secretary Frederick Go.