President Trump has warned Canada that China will “take over” the country if their new trade agreement moves forward. In an unusual claim, Trump said China would abolish ice hockey once they take control. This statement shows how seriously the president views Canada’s recent alignment with China, America’s top economic rival.
When asked about the recently signed deal between Ottawa and Beijing, Trump said the U.S. will “do something very substantial” in response. He mentioned he has a “great relationship with China and President Xi” but added that the U.S. doesn’t “want China to take over Canada.”
According to Daily Mail, Trump warned that if Prime Minister Mark Carney proceeds with the deal, China will take over Canada, and “the first thing they’re going to do is end ice hockey.” Last week, he posted on Truth Social that China is “successfully and completely taking over the once Great Country of Canada,” calling it “So sad to see it happen.”
Canada’s shift reflects growing economic tensions with the United States
Canada’s major policy change comes from recent economic clashes with the U.S. Prime Minister Carney has been working to reduce Canada’s economic dependence on the U.S., which has traditionally been its key partner. This search for new trade options started after Trump raised tariffs on many Canadian products.
Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing earlier this month. This was the first meeting between the two countries’ leaders in eight years. Carney called the outcome a “landmark deal” under a “new strategic partnership,” ending years of disputes and tariff battles.
The new agreement covers trade and tourism. Canada will import 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles with preferential tariffs of just 6.1 percent. This large import quota will likely shake up the Canadian auto market and give consumers more options. Trump has been vocal about various business matters lately, including his claims about Prettis stock dropping.
The deal also helps Canadian farmers. China will reduce tariffs on canola products from 84 percent to around 15 percent by March 1. China used to be Canada’s largest market for canola seed. Additionally, Chinese visitors can now enter Canada without a visa.
Canada isn’t the only country making this shift. Since Trump took office, America’s closest allies have been exploring opportunities with China, often after their own disputes with the U.S. over tariffs. Trump has faced criticism from various lawmakers, with Ilhan Omar responding to his attacks on her income recently.
U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently visited Beijing to repair strained ties. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is expected to make a similar trip next month, and Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has also met with Xi.
Published: Feb 2, 2026 02:00 pm