Canada–EU Association: Opportunities, Concerns & Your Views

Toronto, ON – September 20, 2026

Canada’s relationship with the European Union could be entering a significant new phase.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed that Canada become the EU’s first “associate member.” Prime Minister Mark Carney has welcomed a deeper partnership but has emphasized that Canada is not seeking full EU membership. The details of any new arrangement have yet to be negotiated.

What could change?

Canada and the EU are looking beyond the existing CETA trade agreement toward closer cooperation in:

• trade and investment;
• defence and defence manufacturing;
• critical minerals and energy;
• AI, technology and research;
• financial services and digital trade; and
• opportunities for Canadians and Europeans to study, work and travel.

Canada has already become the first non-European country to participate in the EU’s SAFE defence initiative, potentially creating new opportunities for Canadian defence and technology companies.

The discussions gained further momentum this weekend when Prime Minister Carney and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed an “alliance for the future” between Canada and the EU, including greater cooperation in security, space, strategic industries and economic resilience.

Political debate is also underway at home. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre says he supports Canada’s existing trade and defence relationships with Europe but opposes Canada adopting EU taxes, laws or immigration policies. Carney has said the proposed arrangement still needs to be defined and that Parliament will debate and vote on the partnership.

What does this mean for Canada?

For Canadian businesses, closer EU ties could potentially provide new opportunities to diversify exports, attract investment and participate in European supply chains. At the same time, important questions remain about sovereignty, regulations and Canada’s critical economic relationship with the United States.

With the Canada–EU Summit scheduled for October 29–30, these discussions are expected to continue.

We want to hear from you.

GTA Strategies is reaching out to Canadian businesses, industry organizations, cultural organizations and community groups for their views.

We are also planning virtual roundtable discussions and intend to compile the feedback received and communicate the findings to the Prime Minister of Canada and appropriate federal officials.

What should Canada seek from a closer relationship with the EU? What opportunities or concerns do you see?

Please share your views, and let us know if you would like to participate in an upcoming virtual discussion.