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March 20, 2026

Daily Briefing — 2026-03-20

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CHINA COMPASS
Briefing · 2026-03-20 · 12 signals
Canada-China bilateral trade (January 2026)
$9.7B
Imports
$6.9B
Exports
$2.8B
📋 Today's Briefing

Canada's view of China is shifting, with a growing number of Canadians holding a positive or very positive opinion of the country, according to the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. This shift is notable, considering the recent tensions and trade disputes between the two nations. The Institute's findings suggest a potential shift in public sentiment, which could have implications for Canada's foreign policy and economic strategies.

In other news, the automotive industry is seeing a potential shift in production models, as Mercedes-Benz considers sharing its manufacturing facility in South Africa with Geely Automobile. This move could be a response to the US tariffs on South African exports, highlighting the impact of trade policies on global supply chains. Additionally, Canada is actively pursuing diversification of its partnerships, including with Taiwan, despite stalled negotiations on a trade cooperation deal.

The bottom line: The latest public opinion data indicates a potential thaw in Canada-China relations, which could influence future policy decisions. Meanwhile, the automotive industry's response to tariffs and Canada's pursuit of diverse partnerships showcase the complexities of global trade dynamics.

China Compass tracks daily signals to keep you informed. Visit www.chinacompass.ca for more.

◆
🔔 Top Signals
⚖️ legal
‘Chinese court rules against Xi’s tariffs’ and other headlines you won’t see: Daniel Dorman in The Hill
Why it matters
Canadians' view of China is increasingly positive compared to their perception of the U.S., with 27% now holding a positive or very positive opinion, up from just 10% in 2021.
→ Industry Minister Melanie Joly and Prime Minister Mark Carney's comments further highlight this shift, with Carney's speech at Davos criticizing President Trump following a new trade deal with China.
Macdonald-Laurier Institute
📦 trade
Standing amidst the ruins left by US tariffs stand Chinese automakers.
Why it matters
Abstract: After the US imposed high tariffs on South African exports, Mercedes-Benz began considering the possibility of sharing its manufacturing facility in East London, South Africa with Geely Automobile.
→ Some manufacturers are also considering collaborations with Chinese domestic firms to export technology.
Huxiu
📈 economic
Analyst: Canada Not Choosing Between Beijing and Taipei
Why it matters
Canada aims to diversify its partnerships by deepening ties with Taiwan in areas such as energy security and critical minerals.
→ The country seeks autonomy rather than aligning with the U.S., emphasizing the need to form diverse international relationships to maintain choice and agency.
Focus Taiwan
👥 social
A 95th Chinese University of Hong Kong PhD graduate and OPPO employee developed a new AI wearable device that aims to become a user’s constant emotional mentor | Hardkrok
Why it matters
Author: Huang Nan Editor: Yuan Silai According to reports, Shenzhen Ten Mirror Technology Co., Ltd.
→ Zhao Zhihe summarized the future development trend of AI as "Context ×…".
36Kr · 2026-03-20
🏛️ political
Sending troops to Hormuz Strait for escort? Zhuo Rongtai: Never an option.
Why it matters
Lin Chao-tai, the Premier of the Executive Yuan and, the Minister of National Defense answered questions.
→ The maximum capability of the National Defense Force is to defend the safety of citizens and national security as well as the safety of aircraft and vessels registered under ROC jurisdiction, beyond this there are no current plans.
Liberty Times
◆
📊 Market Snapshot
▲ Top Gainers
CNOOC HK$30.38 ▲ +2.70%
PetroChina HK$10.91 ▲ +1.68%
Bank of China HK$4.70 ▲ +0.64%
▼ Top Losers
JD.com HK$108.60 ▼ -1.90%
Meituan HK$79.15 ▼ -1.92%
SMIC HK$56.90 ▼ -4.77%
💱 Currency Rates
USD/CNY 6.89 ▲ +0.23%
CAD/CNY 5.02 ▲ +0.30%
USD/CAD 1.37 ▼ -0.07%
View Full Briefing →
China Compass
Daily Canada-China updates by Aerial Capital Inc.
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