In the News

Expanding B.C.-India trade likely challenged by new diplomatic strains

Vancouver Sun, September 19, 2023

Featuring: Jeff Nankivell, APF Canada President & CEO

Reporter: Derrick Penner

Extract: 

Still, it is "hard to understate just how dramatic" Trudeau’s allegations were in damaging the relationship between the two countries, which won’t make trade easier, according to Jeff Nankivell, CEO of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada.

Diplomatic relations between the countries have "been strained for decades" over issues such as India’s use of Canadian technology in its nuclear-weapons program and support of Canadian Sikh diaspora communities for Khalistan independence, Nankivell said.

"It was already a trade relationship that was, by all accounts, underperforming relative to the potential, if you look at the Indian economy and what Canada can supply," Nankivell said.

"So I think the first casualty of the new situation will be diminished enthusiasm on both sides for taking big steps to expand trade and investment ties."

What Trudeau’s allegations could mean for the Canada-India economic relationship

The Globe and Mail, September 19, 2023

Featuring: Jeff Nankivell, APF Canada President & CEO

Reporter: Jason Kirby

Extract:

"A potential area of vulnerability would be the imposition of arbitrary phytosanitary measures on agrifood products to exert pressure, because that has happened in the past," said Jeff Nankivell, Chief Executive Officer of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada.