A delegation of over 150 Canadian representatives, led by Chief Trade Commissioner Sara Wilshaw, has concluded a highly successful trade mission to Thailand and Cambodia, marking a significant milestone in Canada's efforts to diversify its trade in the Indo-Pacific region. The Team Canada Trade Mission aimed to promote economic growth opportunities for Canadian businesses in these emerging markets.
Taking place from May 20 to June 5, 2025, the mission brought together Canadian organizations, with 80% consisting of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to explore business opportunities in Thailand and Cambodia. During the trip, Ms. Wilshaw met with key stakeholders, including Dr. Nalinee Taveesin, President of Thailand Trade Representatives and Adviser to the Prime Minister of Thailand.
The mission built on Canada's existing trade relationships with both countries, which have been steadily growing over the years. In 2023, bilateral trade in services between Canada and Thailand reached $522 million, while Canadian direct investment in Thailand totalled $531 million in 2024. Meanwhile, Cambodia has emerged as a significant market for Canadian exports, with merchandise imports reaching $2.4 billion in 2024.
The success of the Team Canada Trade Mission was underscored by the strong connections made between Canadian and Thai/Cambodian companies during business-to-business sessions. Ms. Wilshaw highlighted the potential for Canadian businesses to diversify their trade strategies, increase resilience, and develop products and services that benefit Canada.
"We are pleased with the outcomes of this mission, which demonstrate the growth potential of our trade relationship with Thailand and Cambodia," said Maninder Sidhu, Minister of International Trade. "Canada's commitment to diversifying trade in the Indo-Pacific region has never been stronger, and we look forward to continuing to leverage initiatives like this one to strengthen our economy."
The mission also marked a significant upgrade in Canada's presence in Phnom Penh, with the establishment of an embassy earlier this year. The TCTM was the largest-ever Canadian delegation to visit Cambodia.
In conclusion, the successful Team Canada Trade Mission to Thailand and Cambodia underscores Canada's commitment to expanding trade and investment opportunities in the Indo-Pacific region. With growing bilateral trade relationships and emerging markets like Thailand and Cambodia, Canada is well-positioned to capitalize on the region's vast economic potential.
Key Statistics:
Bilateral trade in services between Canada and Thailand reached $522 million in 2023.
Canadian direct investment in Thailand totalled $531 million in 2024.
Merchandise exports from Canada to Cambodia were valued at $33.5 million in 2024.
Canadian direct investment in Cambodia amounted to $3.0 billion in 2024.
Related Links:
[Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy](link)
[Team Canada trade missions](link)
[Doing business in Thailand](link)
[Doing business in Cambodia](link)
[Diversify your exports with the Trade Commissioner Service](link)
Media Contact:
Huzaif Qaisar, Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Trade
343-575-8816
huzaif.qaisar@international.gc.ca