MONTREAL – The Port of Montreal has reported a significant increase in trade with China, which comes amidst the ongoing U.S.-China tariff war and existing tensions between Canada and Beijing. This development highlights the complexities of international trade relations in the context of global economic challenges.

According to a release from the port, shipments to China experienced a remarkable 22 percent surge year-over-year during the first half of 2025. This growth has elevated China to become the port's second-largest export partner, up from the fifth-largest in 2024. The increase illustrates a shifting dynamic in trade patterns, suggesting that Canadian exporters may be seeking alternative markets in response to trade pressures with the United States.

This boost in trade with China also contributes to a broader increase in total container traffic at the Port of Montreal, which saw a four percent overall rise. The port officials attribute this growth primarily to the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war, which has adversely affected both Canada and China. Despite the complexities and challenges presented by the tariff war, it appears that trade ties with China are strengthening.

Furthermore, this increase in trade occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions that resulted in Beijing imposing tariffs on Canadian agricultural products, such as canola and pork, in March 2025. This action was a response to Canada's decision to impose a 100 percent surtax on Chinese electric vehicle imports in the previous year. The retaliatory measures reflect the intricate and often contentious nature of international trade relations involving tariffs and sanctions.

In a contrasting trend, Statistics Canada revealed that Canadian exports to the United States fell nearly 16 percent month-over-month in April 2025, amidst the backdrop of tariffs. It is noteworthy that a majority of shipments headed south into the U.S. remain exempt from these tariffs, indicating that while there is pressure on Canadian exports, there might be other underlying factors influencing trade dynamics.

The current situation is indicative of a rapidly changing global trade landscape, influenced by political decisions, economic policies, and retaliatory measures. As Canada navigates the complexities of its trade relationships with both the U.S. and China, the Port of Montreal illustrates how regional ports can be pivotal in adapting to shifts in trade patterns and exploring new opportunities amidst geopolitical tensions.