Canadian can maker sees tariff dispute as chance for supply chain independence

The ongoing tariff dispute with the United States has exerted pressure on Canada's supply chains, although some in the country's aluminum packaging industry see the trade conflict as a potential catalyst for boosting domestic investment and reducing reliance on imports.

Erick Vachon, the president of Ideal Can, a food can manufacturer based in Quebec, started his first company in 2002, importing cans from overseas. But in 2019, just before the COVID-19 pandemic, he took the step of setting up his own production line. He said he was struck by how food processors had to throw food away following delays in deliveries of aluminum cans.

"When COVID arrived, we have the line ready to process. I remember, the border is very difficult for traveling. You don't receive the can from the USA or another country, you don't have any choice but to put (food) in the garbage," Vachon told China Global Television Network (CGTN).

The trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada have left a question mark over imports of steel and aluminum, including cans. While steel production remains a significant business in Canada, aluminum is particularly prone to U.S. tariffs. Canada is a major global exporter of raw aluminum, but lacks rolling mills capable of producing the sheets used for aluminum cans.

The tariffs have led industries throughout Canada to reevaluate the security of their supply chains. Some experts suggest that more investment in vital infrastructure is required in Canada in order to ensure that businesses are better able to withstand the repercussions of trade disputes.

Ideal Can is now investing in four new production lines to increase its capacity from 400,000 cans a year to one billion.

"The pressure has increased because everybody is afraid about the tariff or instability, or the border is closed. We were supposed to invest on the long process. We buy now. So, for example, now we have three lines, and we buy four more lines. For us, it's the opportunity to grow faster," Vachon said.

The 25-percent tariff on goods imported from Mexico and Canada, with a 10-percent tariff increase specifically for Canadian energy products, which were signed by U.S. President Donald Trump on February 1, officially took effect on Tuesday.

Canadian can maker sees tariff dispute as chance for supply chain independence

A group of Australian students is touring China, visiting cultural landmarks, experiencing daily life, and playing basketball with Chinese students.

The trip follows an initiative proposed last year by Chinese President Xi Jinping during his meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, to encourage more young Australians to visit China. This group is among the first to take part.

The 2026 China-Australia (Queensland) Youth International Basketball Friendship Match tipped off in Beijing on Friday, bringing together young players from both countries.

"It was really good, really intense game. It was close. They are really good shooters, and they are a very physical team. It was a fun game to play," said Sabian Townsend, an Australian high school student and basketball player from Runcorn Rockets Basketball Club.

"I think it's a great game. And I think this is a game we can learn a lot," said Guo Naiqi, a student from China's Capital Normal University High School.

The group has spent several days traveling across China, with Beijing as the final stop, and basketball standing out as a key highlight. While competition remains part of the game, the emphasis here is on connection, shared experiences, and building friendships.

"Basically, they are very nice for all the time. So, our leaders, guests and students, they are really, really friendly. So, I just have to be really authentic, be me," said Zhang Xiuyu, another Chinese student from Capital Normal University High School.

Beyond the court, Chinese and Australian students engaged in traditional arts and crafts, offering them a deeper, hands-on understanding of Chinese culture.

"It's good. It's like really unique. Once you get the hang of it, it's easy," said Daniel Nicolas, an Australian high school student.

"I think it is very good, and I'm glad to build a connection between us, and between China and Australia," said Zhao Zeyi, a student from Capital Normal University High School.

From basketball to cultural experiences, the exchange goes far beyond the game itself. In these shared moments, young people from China and Australia are building friendship and discovering common ground. And perhaps, this is where the future of people-to-people ties is taking shape.

Young Chinese, Australians connected through basketball, culture