International Networking Cocktail (August 28)
2025-08-28 17:30 - 21:00 (America/Toronto) | Vantage Venues, 150 King Street West, 2nd floor, Toronto, Ontario, M5H 1J9
About the Event
Start the season in style with an exclusive international networking cocktail, bringing together over 10 business organizations and international associations for a unique evening of connections and collaboration.
An elegant, multicultural event in downtown Toronto, gathering business leaders, diplomats, and professionals to kick off the fall season.
Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Vantage Venues, 150 King Street West, 2nd floor, Toronto, Ontario M5H 1J9

What to Expect

250+ guests from across sectors and continents
Food and drinks
Strategic networking with business and diplomatic leaders
Visibility for your organization in a high-profile bilingual setting

Instructions for accessing the special rate:

Special rate for our members: $27
General admission (non-members): $50

Select “My organization is not a member”, followed by “Partner Organization Member” when prompted to access the special rate. Click to Register.

Toronto Trade Show 2025: Where Canada Meets China for Business Innovation
2025-08-30 - 2025-08-31 | Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre, 8500 Warden Avenue, Markham, ON, L6G 1A5, Canada
The Toronto Trade Show 2025, hosted by the Canada-China Enterprise Overseas Service Centre (CCEOSC), is set to become one of the most significant Canada-China trade events ever held in the Greater Toronto Area. Taking place from August 30 to 31, 2025 at the prestigious Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre, this event is your gateway to international business growth, cross-border collaboration, and unparalleled market exposure.
Register as an Exhibitor
Attend for Free as a Guest

Why You Can’t Miss It
As the first and largest professional trade show in the region focused on Canada-China commerce, the Toronto Trade Show 2025 will bring together over 100 leading exhibitors from Canada and China and attract 10,000+ industry professionals and consumers. This is your opportunity to explore the future of trade, innovation, and cooperation across 10 key industries, including:

Cross-border e-commerce
Logistics & warehousing
International expansion & business services
Home appliances & smart tech
Fashion & lifestyle
Cultural tourism
Food & beverage
Live streaming & digital marketing
Education & training
Investment & legal services

What to Expect

Exhibitions – Discover high-quality products, services, and investment opportunities.
Industry Forums – Gain insights from thought leaders and market experts.
Networking Receptions – Build valuable cross-border business connections.
Matchmaking & Negotiations – Facilitate project deals and joint ventures.
Corporate Visits – Explore collaboration with top local enterprises.

Massive Media Exposure
Your brand will benefit from a multi-channel media campaign reaching millions via:

Google, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram
Tencent Video, Rednote (Xiaohongshu), and more

This comprehensive media presence ensures unmatched visibility for all exhibitors and sponsors.
Key Event Info
Venue: Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre
Date: August 30-31, 2025
Public Admission: Free
Dress Code: Business Attire
Be Part of This Milestone Event
Whether you’re a Canadian business looking to expand into China, a Chinese enterprise exploring the North American market, or a consumer seeking new global trends and innovation-Toronto Trade Show 2025 is the place to be.
To exhibit your brand and unlock new markets:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSflovfzVsmXcdGv4zkz7iHmmoUtWKUMDRiJZYIjkUFhKleY5A/viewform?usp=sharing
To attend as a guest for FREE:
https://evtgo.com/e/LALfLnWkzS3xki07Xy7x
Stay tuned for more updates at: https://cceosc.org/en/tts2025
For partnership or media inquiries, contact us at: info@cceosc.org

[SOLD OUT] Unlocking Greater Bay Area Business Opportunities (Toronto)
2025-09-09 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Toronto) | Bennett Jones LLP, 3400 One First Canadian Place, Toronto, Ontario, M5X 1A4, Canada
On September 9, 2025, the Canada China Business Council (CCBC) will host an event in Toronto exploring business opportunities in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), one of China’s most dynamic and high-potential economic regions.
The GBA includes two Special Administrative Regions, Hong Kong and Macao, and nine municipalities in Guangdong Province, including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and Dongguan. Home to 87 million people and a GDP of approximately RMB 14 trillion (USD 2.06 trillion), the region contributes around 11% of China’s national GDP and accounts for roughly 37% of the country’s total exports. With world-class infrastructure, including three of the world’s ten busiest container ports and five international airports, the GBA is a major centre for advanced manufacturing, innovation, and trade.
Within this dynamic landscape, Hong Kong plays a strategic role as a bridge between international markets and mainland China. Its established position as a global financial centre, foundation in English Common Law, and exceptional regional connectivity make it a natural launch point for Canadian businesses looking to access the broader GBA.
The Canada China Business Council is honoured to have Mr. Callan Anderson, CEO of Hong Kong Corporate Services Group, share his insights on doing business in the Greater Bay Area and the strategic advantages Hong Kong offers to Canadian companies.
As Co-Host of this event, Mr. Wang Wenlong, Head of Treasury of the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Canada), ICBC (Canada), will provide an overview of the cross-border RMB products and services offered to Canadian corporate clients engaged in business with the GBA. His remarks will focus on how these solutions will support the business needs of Canadian enterprises operating in the region.
Mr. Gavin Yeung, Acting Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Toronto; Mr. Ian Michael, CCBC Board Director and Partner at Bennett Jones LLP; and Mr. Bijan Ahmadi, Executive Director & COO of CCBC, will also deliver remarks and share their insights.

Tickets:
CCBC Members: Free
Non-Members: $100 + tax
Capacity is limited and registration will be on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to CCBC members.
Dress Code: Business Attire
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
Payment is non-refundable unless the Canada China Business Council cancels the event.
Address: Bennett Jones (3400 One First Canadian Place, Toronto, Ontario, M5X 1A4 Canada)
Agenda:
3:00–3:30 PM EDT: Registration
3:30–4:35 PM EDT: Presentations
4:35–5:00 PM EDT: Networking

Featuring Speakers

Callan Anderson
CEO
Hong Kong Corporate Services Group
Callan Anderson has lived and worked in Hong Kong for over 25 years and will discuss how Canadian businesses can grasp the burgeoning consumer base and unique attributes of the GBA, while using Hong Kong as an extension of your Canadian business. With over 300,000 Canadians living and working in Hong Kong, Callan will explain why this city is still vital for Canadian enterprise and why it benefits from the most important double tax treaties that support your business market expansion into Asia.

Mr. Wang Wenlong
Head of Treasury
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (Canada)
Mr. WANG Wenlong brings over 12 years of extensive experience within the ICBC Group. Prior to current role, he held key positions at the ICBC International Trade Processing Center and ICBC Mexico, where he was actively involved in financial markets, international trade finance, and financial institutions business. He also serves as the business lead for the Toronto RMB Clearing Bank, playing a pivotal role in promoting the internationalization of the Renminbi in the region. With a strong background in global banking operations, Mr. Wang Wenlong has developed deep expertise in cross-border financial services and treasury management.

Mr. Gavin Yeung
Acting Director
Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Toronto
Mr. Gavin Yeung is the Acting Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Toronto) (HKETO(Toronto)). HKETO(Toronto) is the official representative of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China in Canada. Its mandate is to foster closer ties between Hong Kong and Canada, with a particular focus on economic and trade relationships.
Gavin joined the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China in 2017 as a member of the Administrative Officer Grade. Before joining the HKETO(Toronto) in December 2024, Gavin had worked in various bureaux and departments, including the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, Development Bureau and the Home Affairs Department.
Gavin received his Bachelor of Social Science degree from the University of Hong Kong.

Mr. Ian Michael
Partner
Bennett Jones LLP
Board Director
Canada China Business Council
Ian Michael is a corporate partner at Bennett Jones LLP in Toronto. Mr. Michael’s practice is focused on corporate and securities law with an emphasis on mergers & acquisitions and infrastructure investments by private equity and strategic investors. He regularly works with international investors in connection with their Canadian investments and acquisitions, including extensively with China-based investors. Mr. Michael works with boards of directors, senior executives, and private equity investors in a range of industries including aviation, real estate, technology, and automotive.
Mr. Michael previously served as a member of the Securities Advisory Committee (SAC) of the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC). SAC provides advice to the Commission on a variety of matters, including legislative and policy initiatives and important capital markets trends, and is a former member of the Mergers & Acquisitions team at the OSC.
Mr. Michael has been recommended by The Legal 500 Canada and the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory in the areas of Corporate Finance, Mergers & Acquisitions, Private Equity, and Transport – Aviation, in addition to being noted by Lexpert as a leading infrastructure lawyer in Canada for his extensive work with aviation infrastructure consortia at most international airports in Canada. Mr. Michael has taught mergers & acquisitions for the advanced securities law program at Queen’s University, Western University, and the University of Windsor. He is also a member of the Board of Governors of St. Andrew’s College in Aurora, Ontario.

Mr. Bijan Ahmadi
Executive Director & COO
Canada China Business Council
Bijan Ahmadi serves as the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Canada China Business Council (CCBC), overseeing the operations and activities of the Council across its seven chapters in Canada and China.
Before joining CCBC, he co-founded and served as the Executive Director of the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy (IPD) from 2018 to 2024. IPD is a non-partisan think tank operating in Canada and the United States, dedicated to fostering constructive engagement and interest-based thinking in international affairs.
During his tenure at IPD, Mr. Ahmadi launched the organization’s Asia research program in 2020 and its flagship annual conference, the Indo-Pacific Strategy Forum (IPSF), in Ottawa in 2021. Today, IPSF is recognized as Canada’s premier conference on the country’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. He was also the co-editor of Canada-China Brief, a biweekly policy newsletter providing the latest developments and expert insights on political and economic relations between Ottawa and Beijing.
In his work on China, Mr. Ahmadi has advised large corporations and SMEs on navigating Canada-China trade, policy, and regulatory developments. He has also spearheaded the publication of numerous research reports on China and Canada-China relations and led Track 2 diplomacy initiatives in collaboration with Chinese and American research institutions.
Mr. Ahmadi holds a Master’s degree in Global Diplomacy from SOAS University of London and a Master of Applied Science from the University of Toronto. Before founding IPD, Mr. Ahmadi worked in strategy and management roles in the financial services and real estate sectors, where he honed his skills in organizational leadership and operational planning. He also served on the executive boards of several Canadian non-profits and NGOs, including the Toronto branch of the Canadian International Council.

Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

2025 HKCBA National Conference (Ottawa)
2025-09-12 08:00 - 14:00 (America/Toronto) | Fairmont Château Laurier, 1 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON, K1N 8S7
Discover New Business Horizons in Asia and Hong Kong at the 2025 HKCBA National Conference

Date: Friday September 12 8:00am – 2:00pm
Time: Fairmont Château Laurier, Ottawa

With the theme “Think Diversification, Think Asia, Think Hong Kong”, the half-day forum and business luncheon will welcome up to 200 participants. Hear directly from industry experts and thought leaders about the latest strategies for market diversification and the evolving opportunities in Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region.
Reserve your tickets today:
https://ottawa.hkcba.com/events/2025-hkcba-national-conference

[SOLD OUT] Exploring Greater Bay Area Business Opportunities (Montreal)
2025-09-16 15:30 - 19:00 (America/Toronto) | Scotia Bank (2nd Floor), 1002 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 3L6, Canada
Join us for an exclusive event in Montreal exploring the dynamic potential of the Greater Bay Area (GBA), one of the world’s most ambitious economic zones. Home to over 87 million people and a GDP of approximately RMB 14 trillion (USD 2.06 trillion), the GBA offers Canadian businesses a thriving hub of innovation, finance, and trade.
The region features world-class infrastructure, including three of the world’s ten busiest container ports and five international airports. It is also a major centre for advanced manufacturing, innovation, and trade, contributing 11% of China’s national GDP and approximately 37% of its total exports.
At this event, our seasoned speakers will share their valuable firsthand experiences attending some of the most influential business events in China & Hong Kong, including:
CCBC Annual General Meeting (AGM)
CCBC’s annual flagship event, the AGM & Business Forum, has been a cornerstone of Canada-China business engagement for 47 years. Held this year in Beijing on November 3, 2025, the AGM brings together Canadian businesses, government representatives, and Chinese stakeholders to strengthen bilateral ties, advance policy dialogue, and create strategic opportunities for growth.
China International Import Expo (CIIE)
CIIE remains a premier platform for Canadian companies entering or expanding in China’s consumer market. Speakers will share how firms have used the expo to raise visibility and secure commercial opportunities.
Hong Kong Forum
This long-standing event highlights Hong Kong’s role as a global financial centre and gateway to the GBA. Participants gain access to the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide, comprising 49 associations in 38 countries and regions.
Asian Financial Forum (AFF)
As Asia’s leading financial and investment forum, AFF brings together global finance leaders. Speakers will preview the 2026 edition and outline ways Canadian firms can engage with capital markets, investors, and international partners.

Date & Time: September 16, 2025, 3:30 PM – 7 PM EDT
Location: Scotia Bank (2nd Floor), 1002 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Quebec H3A 3L6

Floor: 2nd floor can be accessed via the elevator closest to the security desk
After branch hours, the entrance to the building will be on Metcalfe Street
Indoor parking is available on Metcalfe Street for $20 ($10 after 5 PM)
Public transportation: the underground passageway from Peel metro station is accessible from the Sherbrooke/Centre Mont-Royal exit.

Event Agenda:
3:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Registration & Networking
4:00 PM – 5:15 PM: Opening Remarks, Keynote Speech, Featured Panel
5:15 PM – 5:30 PM: Q&A
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Networking Session
Tickets:

CCBC & HKCBA Members: Free
Non-Members: $50 + tax

Refund and Cancellation Policy:
Payment is non-refundable unless the Canada China Business Council cancels the event.

Learn more about Scotia Wealth Management
Featured Speakers:

Callan Anderson
CEO of HKCSG
Member of HKCBA National Advisory Board and Ottawa Board of Directors
With 25 years of experience in Hong Kong’s corporate services sector, Callan has guided countless organisations from Europe, Australia, Canada, the UK, and Asia in establishing and expanding their presence in Hong Kong and Mainland China.

The Honorable Martin Cauchon, c.p., Ad.E.
Counsel at DS Lawyers
Director and Vice-Chairman of the Board of CCBC

Cindy Ho
Partner at DS Lawyers
Immediate Past Chair of HKCBA National and Co-President of HKCBA Montreal
Honorary Secretary of the Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations Worldwide

Claire Zhang
Director of Canada China Business Council, Quebec Chapter

Drew Dorweiler
Managing Director and Valuation Practice Leader at Dartmouth Partners Limited
Co-President of HKCBA Montreal

Eric Cardinal
VP M&A Club
Member of HKCBA Montreal Board of Directors

Yujing Liu
Global Vice President of Commercial Excellence at Solmax

Participants can discover how these platforms can open doors for Canadian businesses in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and beyond.
The event will conclude with a networking cocktail, offering attendees the opportunity to engage directly with business peers, thought leaders, and future partners within the CCBC and HKCBA communities to foster broader exchanges.
Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

Sourcing from China – Navigating the Canton Fair (Webinar)
2025-09-18 14:00 - 15:00 (America/Toronto) | Zoom Webinar
The Canada China Business Council (CCBC) invites you to join an informative webinar on Sourcing from China – Navigating the Canton Fair, widely known as China’s No. 1 Trade Fair and the world’s largest trade exhibition. The Canton Fair attracts hundreds of thousands of international buyers and brings together more than 30,000 exhibitors, including high-tech innovators and established brand leaders.
Webinar Date: September 18th, 2025
Event Time (Shown in Different Time Zones):

British Columbia:
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM PDT
Prairies:
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM MDT
Ontario & Quebec:
2:00 PM – 3:00 PM EDT
Atlantic Canada:
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM ADT

The upcoming 138th Canton Fair will be held in Guangzhou in October–November 2025, showcasing a wide variety of products ranging from advanced manufacturing and new energy vehicles to home furnishings, health, fashion, and lifestyle goods etc.
This webinar will provide practical guidance on:

Why Canadian businesses should attend the Canton Fair?
What buyers can expect to find at the Canton Fair?
How can CCBC support Canadian participants in the process?

This webinar will provide Canadian companies from coast to coast with first-hand insights on how to navigate the Fair, identify the right partners, and maximize sourcing opportunities.
Don’t miss this chance to learn how the Canton Fair can open doors for your business in China. Register today to secure your spot. Click to Register for the Webinar.
Featured Speakers:

James Prescott
Vice President, Global Sourcing & Merchandise Procurement
Canadian Tire Corporation
James is the VP, Global Sourcing & Merchandise Procurement for Canadian Tire Corporation (CTC). In this role, he leads enterprise Global Sourcing & Merchandise Procurement for CTC retail banners including Canadian Tire Retail, Mark’s, and SportChek. Across dozens of categories, with a network of over 1800 global vendors, shipping from over 40 different ports around the world, James oversees billions in annual direct-source merchandise purchases for CTC. Accountable for cost of goods management, product stewardship, responsible sourcing, vendor audit, and quality assurance, James leads diverse teams driving impactful results here in Canada, in China and across South-East Asia. With over 25 years experience doing business across North America, Asia and Europe, James has an extensive experience and understanding of global supply chains.
Prior to his role leading a Global Sourcing team for CTC, one of Canada’s most respected companies, in 2014, James and his business partner sold their Langley, British Columbia based wholesale sporting goods business to CTC. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree (Econ) from the University of British Columbia.

Omid Goharian
Managing Director
Magnovest Inc.
Omid Goharian is a trade and supply chain strategist and the Managing Director of Magnovest Inc., which he founded to drive sourcing, logistics, and growth initiatives in the construction and real estate sectors. With over 15 years of international experience, he has a proven track record in market development, brand launches, and cross-border operations. From 2012 to 2017 at GTC International, he managed more than 40,000 metric tons of commodities from China and South Korea, building expertise in high-volume global trade. Earlier, he served as the exclusive distributor of MihaBodytec in the Middle East and later as Supply Chain Manager at Arkfield Development, one of Ontario’s leading real estate groups. He holds a master’s in technology management and a bachelor’s in industrial engineering.

LIU Linlin
Consul (Counsellor, Economic and Commercial)
Chinese Consulate General in Toronto

Mr. LIU Linlin has had a distinguished career spanning over three decades in international trade, economic cooperation, and commercial diplomacy.
Since August 2022, Mr. Liu has served as Consul (Counsellor, Economic and Commercial) at the Chinese Consulate General in Toronto. Prior to this, from April 2017 to August 2022, he held the position of Economic and Commercial Counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Papua New Guinea. From October 2008 to April 2017, he served in various capacities at China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), and Economic and Commercial Counselor at the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand from October 2005 to October 2008.
Mr. Liu’s extensive career also includes previous role at MOFCOM (2001-2005), the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation (1996-2000), and the Economic and Commercial Office of the Chinese Embassy in New Zealand, where he served as Attaché and Third Secretary from 1992 to 1996. He began his career in 1988 at the Personnel Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation.
Mr. Liu holds a Master of Business Economics and Finance from Curtin University of Technology, Australia (2002), a Graduate Diploma in International Economics from the University of Adelaide, Australia (1998), and a Bachelor of Economics from the Shanghai Institute of Foreign Trade (1988), where he majored in Foreign Trade English.

Bijan Ahmadi
Executive Director and COO
Canada China Business Council
Bijan Ahmadi serves as the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Canada China Business Council (CCBC), overseeing the operations and activities of the Council across its seven chapters in Canada and China.
Before joining CCBC, he co-founded and served as the Executive Director of the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy (IPD) from 2018 to 2024. IPD is a non-partisan think tank operating in Canada and the United States, dedicated to fostering constructive engagement and interest-based thinking in international affairs.
During his tenure at IPD, Mr. Ahmadi launched the organization’s Asia research program in 2020 and its flagship annual conference, the Indo-Pacific Strategy Forum (IPSF), in Ottawa in 2021. Today, IPSF is recognized as Canada’s premier conference on the country’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. He was also the co-editor of Canada-China Brief, a biweekly policy newsletter providing the latest developments and expert insights on political and economic relations between Ottawa and Beijing.
In his work on China, Mr. Ahmadi has advised large corporations and SMEs on navigating Canada-China trade, policy, and regulatory developments. He has also spearheaded the publication of numerous research reports on China and Canada-China relations and led Track 2 diplomacy initiatives in collaboration with Chinese and American research institutions.
Mr. Ahmadi holds a Master’s degree in Global Diplomacy from SOAS University of London and a Master of Applied Science from the University of Toronto. Before founding IPD, Mr. Ahmadi worked in strategy and management roles in the financial services and real estate sectors, where he honed his skills in organizational leadership and operational planning. He also served on the executive boards of several Canadian non-profits and NGOs, including the Toronto branch of the Canadian International Council.

Jeff Zhang
Regional Director, Central Canada
Canada China Business Council
Jeff Zhang has over 20 years of international experience in private, public and non-profit organizations in a variety of sectors including E-commerce, oil and gas, retail, commercial real estate, education and financial services. Prior to joining CCBC, Mr. Zhang worked in establishment and operation management at a Sino-Foreign joint venture company and in strategic partnership management at a Fortune 500 multinational company. He also led and assisted a number of Canadian companies and educational institutions into China where he was responsible for strategic partnerships and branding establishment.
Mr. Zhang has an MBA in marketing and international business from Concordia University in Montreal and is fluent in Mandarin and English. He has also been a guest speaker at professional business associations in China and Canada.

[SOLD OUT] 2025 Canadian Food Business Matchmaking Meeting (Shanghai)
2025-09-24 13:30 - 16:30 (Asia/Shanghai) | Bank of Communications, 350 Jiangning Road, Shanghai, China
The Canada China Business Council, in collaboration with Export Development Canada (EDC) and the Bank of Communications, invites you to a business exchange on September 24, 2025 in Shanghai. The program will feature presentations from leading Canadian companies in agri-food, seafood, agriculture technology, health products, and beverages, along with an overview of the Bank of Communications’ services and a dedicated Canada-China Business Matchmaking session. Participating businesses will gain opportunities to share their perspectives on the food industry, explore potential partnerships with industry peers, and build connections that strengthen bilateral trade and investment.
Time: September 24, 2025, 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Address: Bank of Communications, 350 Jiangning Road, Shanghai
Agenda:
1:30-2:00: Registration
2:00-2:20: Speeches & Remarks
2:20-2:50: Introduction to Bank of Communications’ Foreign Exchange Services
2:50-3:20: Canadian Company Presentations

McCain Foods
Clearwater Seafood​
Hylife
Great Mountain Ginseng
Radouga Distilleries
CubicFarm Systems Corp.

3:20-3:50: Introduction of Bank of Communications Clients
3:50: Canada China Business Matchmaking
4:30: Closing
For inquiries, please contact Edward Dai, CCBC Regional Director for Atlantic Canada and Shanghai, at edward@ccbc.com.cn.

[SOLD OUT] Connecting Markets: Canada-China Executive Business Summit
2025-10-06 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Toronto) | Dentons, 1 Place Ville-Marie, 39th Floor, Montreal, Quebec, H3B 4M7, Canada
Join the Canada China Business Council (CCBC) in welcoming a distinguished delegation of senior executives and entrepreneurs from the McGill China MBA for Executives program. This dynamic exclusive summit will bring together leaders from across the CCBC community and the visiting EMBA cohort for an afternoon of high-level dialogue, insight-sharing, and strategic networking.
Through a keynote address, a featured executive panel, and a closing networking session, participants will explore critical themes such as innovation, cross-border expansion, investment strategies, and the evolving Canada–China business relationship. The forum aims to foster meaningful business connections, mutual understanding, and practical collaboration between Canada and China.
The event will conclude with a networking cocktail, offering attendees the opportunity to engage directly with business peers, thought leaders, and future partners within the CCBC community.
Date & Time: October 6th, 2025, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM EDT. The networking cocktail will commence at 6:30 PM.
Location: Dentons, 1 Place Ville-Marie, 39th Floor, Montreal, Quebec H3B 4M7
Please be advised that the panel will be conducted in Mandarin, and all guests are warmly invited to attend.
Tickets:

Member: $20 + tax
Non-member: $100 + tax

Refund and Cancellation Policy:
Payment is non-refundable unless the Canada China Business Council cancels the event.

Event Agenda:
4:30 PM – 5:00 PM EDT: Registration & Networking
5:00 PM – 5:10 PM EDT: Opening & Welcome Remarks
5:10 PM – 5:45 PM EDT: Featured Panel 1: “Beyond Borders: Why Canada Matters in Your Global Growth Strategy”
Panellists:

Henry Liu, Vice President, Power Corporation
Alice Wu, President, Groupe Boda

5:45 PM – 6:15 PM EDT: Featured Panel 2: Practical Insights for Doing Business in Canada
“Essential Banking, Accounting, and Legal Know-How for Succeeding in Canada”
Panellists:

Bin Zeng, Partner, Dentons
Jianping Zhou, Director, Commercial, Industrial and Real Estate Sector, Desjardins
Jianguo Wei, General Manager, Elite Times CPA Inc.
Claire Zhang, Quebec Chapter Director, CCBC (Moderator)

6:15 PM – 6:25 PM: Q&A
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Networking Session

Speakers & Panellists:

Ali Amadee
Partner
Dentons
Ali Amadee is a lawyer and partner in Dentons Canada’s Montréal office. His practice focuses on corporate and commercial law, mergers and acquisitions, project finance, venture capital, as well as technology and emerging growth companies. In addition to being viewed as a seasoned legal advisor, Ali is also known to be a pragmatic solution-finder and a strategic advisor for his clients.
Ali is particularly active in the energy transition field and heads Dentons Canada’s national practice group focused on lithium-ion batteries and battery storage. He has niche experience in providing legal, strategic and government relations advice to companies active in this fast-growing sector in all aspects of their establishment and expansion in North America.
His mandates often involve complex cross-border aspects and lead him to regularly work with his Dentons colleagues from various offices across the globe. As part of his transactional experience, Ali has acted for buyers and sellers in various M&A deals in a variety of sectors, and has been involved in numerous infrastructure transactions and financings (including in the context of public-private partnerships). He also regularly represents either tech and emerging growth companies or investors (including VC funds) in financing and investment transactions.
As a true world citizen, Ali has lived and attended university on three different continents. In 2008, he received the Québec-China Full Scholarship, awarded jointly by the governments of Québec and China. This scholarship provided him with the opportunity to live in China and pursue graduate studies in international economic law at China’s Wuhan University. With a passion for languages, Ali is fluent in English, French and Persian and conversant in Mandarin. He is called to the bars of Québec and the State of New York.
Ali is active on various boards and regularly advises business leaders on legal, geopolitical and strategic matters relating to China, the Middle East and other emerging economies.

Alice Wu
President
Groupe Boda
Mrs. Alice Minying Wu founded Groupe Boda in 2004 and has served as its President ever since. She holds a Master’s degree from McGill University and is fluent in Chinese, English, and French. With nearly thirty years of extensive experience in business management, including more than twenty years in the real estate industry, she has consistently demonstrated professional passion, unwavering conviction, and outstanding leadership. Under her guidance, her team has achieved remarkable success, while she has also long been committed to philanthropy, contributing continuously to community development.
For her remarkable achievements and contributions, Mrs. Wu has received numerous honours, including “Outstanding Chinese Entrepreneur,” the Grand Prize “Les Grands Bâtisseurs 2025,” as well as the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal and the King Charles III Coronation Medal, recognizing her ongoing dedication to Canadian society. In addition, Le Journal de Montréal has named her among the “most powerful women in real estate on Montréal’s South Shore,” underscoring her broad influence in both the industry and the community.

Bin Zeng
Partner
Dentons
Bin Zeng is a partner in the Banking and Finance group of Dentons Canada LLP’s Montreal office. His practice focuses on Canadian and cross-border financing, while he also advises on corporate and general commercial law.
Bin advises a wide range of clients in commercial credit transactions, syndicated loans, real estate lending, asset-based lending, project financing, receivables financing, as well as aircraft financing. Bin also advises clients on international trade matters and assists foreign enterprises in their establishment and expansion of businesses in Québec and Canada while complying with regulatory requirements.

Claire Zhang
Director, Quebec Chapter
Canada China Business Council
Claire Zhang brings over 10 years of international development expertise to her role as Director of the Quebec Chapter at the Canada China Business Council. She previously led business development for Greater China across sectors including edu-tech, entertainment, IT, blockchain, and 5G. Ms. Zhang excelled in building influential relationships with government agencies, industry leaders, and strategic partners in both nations.
Prior to this, Ms. Zhang served as Program Manager at the Quebec Chapter and Interim Chapter Director for the Atlantic Chapter at CCBC. There, she provided critical business intelligence to members from Eastern Canada. She is an expert in organizing large-scale, high-level business missions to China and Canada, facilitating essential negotiations, and helping Canadian enterprises navigate the complexities of the Chinese market.
A dedicated advocate for diversity, women’s leadership, and entrepreneurship, Ms. Zhang holds a B.Comm in Marketing from Concordia University. She is fluent in English and Mandarin, with intermediate French skills. Her charismatic acumen and deep understanding of both business landscapes position her to drive impactful bilateral business development and forge strategic partnerships. Ms. Zhang is also actively involved in the China-Canada community in the Quebec region.

David M Saunders, PhD
Director of International, Desautels Faculty of Management
McGill University
David Saunders is Director International, Executive Director of Executive Education, Academic Director of the China MBA for Executives, and Professor (Administration) at Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University. David has over 20 years of experience as Dean, leading two business schools to the prestigious Financial Times ranking, and driving the schools’ globalization and strategic growth. He has created more than 100 strategic partnerships around the globe, and has supervised executive and academic programs in several different countries including Canada, UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Ecuador, China and Japan.
David has served on the board of CEIBS (China), and the international advisory boards of SKEMA (France) and Schaffhausen Institute of Technology (Switzerland). David has also forged exclusive strategic relationships with both private (e.g., IBM) and public sector (e.g., The Canadian Olympic Committee) organizations to provide tailored business education to serve their needs. He served as Chair of the EQUIS Awarding Body and Vice-Chair of the AACSB Initial Accreditation Committee, as well as a board member of both EFMD and AACSB.
David is an expert in negotiation and change management, most recently working with organizations that are in the process of digitalizing. In addition to teaching on numerous executive education and professional Masters programs, he has consulted to many diverse organizations throughout his career, including KPMG, Bank of Nova Scotia, Unilever, Syntax, Bantrel, Oerlikon Aerospace, Hydro-Québec, Teleglobe Canada, Lantic Sugar, Computer Imaging and Graphics, International Aviation Management Training Institute (IAMTI), and the Institute of Canadian Bankers (ICB).
David has a rich background as a researcher, and is co-author of the world’s three largest selling negotiation textbooks, among numerous other books and papers. He earned a PhD in social psychology from Western University in Canada.

Henry Liu
Vice President
Power Corporation
Mr. Liu has been Vice-President of Power Corporation since 2011. He oversees Power Corporation’s business development in Asia, where the Corporation currently has a number of investments. Mr. Liu joined Power Corporation in 1995 and has since held various positions, most recently as Financial Analyst and Director of Asian Affairs. Prior to joining Power Corporation, Mr. Liu worked with China CITIC Group in Beijing.
Mr. Liu obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Nanjing, China, earned an MBA from McGill University, and is a CFA charter holder.
He serves as a member of the board of governors for the Jiuding Scholarship Program dedicated to Chinese students studying in Canada, and is a member of the board of directors of the Montreal Chinese Hospital Foundation. He is also actively involved in supporting the development of cultural programs to promote local Chinese communities in Canada.
Mr. Liu is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medallion and the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his dedication and services to the communities in Canada.

Jianguo Wei
General Manager
Elite Times CPA Inc.
His prior professional experience includes being a tax expert with Revenue China for more than 10 years and an auditor with Richter for 5 years. In 2013, he founded the Elite Times CPA Inc. firm in Montreal, and soon expanded to Toronto and Vancouver.
His expertise is in both Canadian and Chinese taxation and accounting systems. A lot of his clients are high-net-worth immigrant investors, immigrants, and subsidiaries of Chinese companies. He uses his expertise in both countries to help Chinese entrepreneurs invest in Canada. He is also a specialist in pre-landing tax planning for high-net-worth immigrant families.
He has established professional networks across China and Canada with partners including governments, associations, accounting firms, law firms, financial institutions and immigration agencies.

Jianping Zhou
Director, Commercial, Industrial and Real Estate Sector
Desjardins
Mr. Jianping Zhou is currently the Head of the Asian Market at the Business Services Centre of Desjardins Group. He holds an MBA from the Jack Welch Management Institute, and has studied economics, finance, and financial engineering across institutions in China, France, and Canada. He also earned a certificate in Real Estate Investment and Analysis from MIT’s School of Architecture and Planning.
Since 2011, Mr. Zhou has worked at Laurentian Bank, CIBC, and Desjardins, progressing from front-line roles to a specialist in commercial real estate and construction financing. At Desjardins, he leads a dedicated team focused on serving the business needs of the Asian communities in Quebec and Ontario, upholding the Group’s values of community service and member empowerment.

Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

Webinar: U.S.–China Trade Talks – Exclusive CCBC Member Briefing
2025-10-08 09:30 - 10:30 (America/Toronto) | Zoom Webinar
This private briefing is offered exclusively to CCBC members.
As the United States and China navigate one of the world’s most complex economic relationships, trade talks between the two powers remain a focal point with wide-reaching implications for global business. For Canadian companies engaged in China, understanding the trajectory of U.S.–China trade policy is critical to assessing risk and opportunity.
Date: Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM EDT
This members-only webinar brings together three senior experts, each offering a distinct vantage point on U.S.–China trade dynamics:

Noah Fraser: Senior Vice President of China Operations, US-China Business Council
Chucheng Feng: Founding partner, Hutong Research
Stephen Wortley: Partner, DLA Piper (Canada) and DLA Piper (US), Board Director, Canada China Business Council

Moderator:

Bijan Ahmadi, Executive Director & COO, Canada China Business Council

Together, our panelists will examine the current state of U.S.–China trade talks, points of friction and potential cooperation, and the implications for Canadian businesses active in China. The session will conclude with Q&A, providing CCBC members with direct access to the speakers.
Tickets: Click here to register (CCBC members only)
This event is exclusively open to CCBC members in good standing. The Zoom link will be shared after we complete the membership verification process. If you have any questions about membership or would like to apply, please feel free to contact us at events@ccbc.com

About the Speakers:

Chucheng FENG
Founding Partner
Hutong Research
Chucheng Feng is the founding partner of Hutong Research, a boutique advisory firm focusing on deciphering China’s policy trajectory, dynamics, and their market impact. Before Hutong Research, Chucheng co-founded Plenum China Research, where he was a partner 2019-2023, and Grisk Data, a Shanghai/DC-based alternative data vendor on geopolitics in 2018.
Prior to launching his own ventures, Chucheng helped build political risk practice at the Hong Kong-based risk firm Blackpeak in 2017. Beforehand, he was an Asia analyst at Eurasia Group and conducted research at Asia Society Policy Institute under former Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd. In these capacities, Chucheng advised sovereign wealth funds, the world’s most prestigious hedge funds and asset managers, as well as Fortune 500 companies on China-related topics.
Born in Beijing, Chucheng had studied, worked, and lived in Minnesota, California, New York, Washington DC, Hong Kong, and Shanghai. He travels frequently across continents for speaking engagements and in-person briefings.
Chucheng holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and history from University of California, Berkeley, and a master’s degree in political science from Columbia University.
Chuchengis a Forbes U30 Asia 2022 listee and a young leader at the Council for the United States and Italy. Chucheng gets regularly quoted by Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, Bloomberg, and Caixin.

Noah Fraser
Senior Vice President of China Operations
US-China Business Council
Noah has over 15 years of progressive international career growth across multiple industries, including government & corporate affairs, marketing & communications, manufacturing, education, and life sciences. His depth of experience includes the public, private, and non-profit sectors, and he is professionally fluent in Mandarin Chinese and French. He has spent over 10 years working and studying in China and Hong Kong.
He is currently Senior Vice President of China Operations for the US-China Business Council, based in Beijing. Founded in 1973, the US-China Business Council (USCBC) is a private, nonpartisan, non-profit association of more than 270 American companies that do business with China. The membership includes some of the largest and most iconic American brands, in addition to professional services firms and small- and medium-sized enterprises.
Noah previously served as the Managing Director & Chief China Representative at the Canada China Business Council, the de-facto chamber of commerce between Canada and China, with over 40 years of history and 300 corporate members across both markets. In the private sector, he most recently acted as the Director of Marketing & Business Development at Rapid Aid Corp., the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of temperature-therapy medical devices. In close collaboration with the CEO, he oversaw all global marketing, sales & communications activities, and drove international strategy, with a focus on Greater China, the EU, and the United States.
Noah holds an Honours Bachelor of Social Sciences in International Development & Globalization and a minor in Business Administration from the University of Ottawa, partially completed at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and a certificate in Mandarin Chinese from Nanjing Normal University. He is currently completing a Masters of Laws (LLM) in International Commercial Law and Practice at the University of Edinburgh. Noah is also an active volunteer, serving on the Advisory Board of the Canada China Forum and as a mentor with the Carnegie-Tsinghua Center for Global Policy.

Stephen Wortley
Partner
DLA Piper (Canada) and DLA Piper (US)
Board Director
Canada China Business Council
Stephen Wortley is a leading capital markets and mergers and acquisitions lawyer. He is highly regarded for his deep knowledge of the Chinese, Hong Kong and East Asian markets. With extensive expertise in domestic and international securities and corporate matters, Mr. Wortley advises state-owned enterprises and a variety of small and medium-sized businesses.
Assisting startups and established companies in the technology, financial services, advanced materials, manufacturing and energy and mining industries, Mr. Wortley provides counsel on local, national and international prospectus offerings, as well as numerous listings on the TSX, TSX Venture Exchange and the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong. He also advises on Chinese outbound M&A transactions into the Americas, ASEAN and Europe.
Mr. Wortley has been recognized for his work in M&A by Chambers Global and The Legal Media Group – Guide to Leading Practitioners: China. He speaks frequently on the topic of Hong Kong Stock Exchange listings by Canadian companies, and on alternative investment structures.
Mr. Wortley clerked for The Honourable Mr. Justice Lambert of the British Columbia Court of Appeal.

Bijan Ahmadi
Executive Director & COO
Canada China Business Council
Bijan Ahmadi serves as the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Canada China Business Council (CCBC), overseeing the operations and activities of the Council across its seven chapters in Canada and China.
Before joining CCBC, he co-founded and served as the Executive Director of the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy (IPD) from 2018 to 2024. IPD is a non-partisan think tank operating in Canada and the United States, dedicated to fostering constructive engagement and interest-based thinking in international affairs.
During his tenure at IPD, Mr. Ahmadi launched the organization’s Asia research program in 2020 and its flagship annual conference, the Indo-Pacific Strategy Forum (IPSF), in Ottawa in 2021. Today, IPSF is recognized as Canada’s premier conference on the country’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. He was also the co-editor of Canada-China Brief, a biweekly policy newsletter providing the latest developments and expert insights on political and economic relations between Ottawa and Beijing.
In his work on China, Mr. Ahmadi has advised large corporations and SMEs on navigating Canada-China trade, policy, and regulatory developments. He has also spearheaded the publication of numerous research reports on China and Canada-China relations and led Track 2 diplomacy initiatives in collaboration with Chinese and American research institutions.
Mr. Ahmadi holds a Master’s degree in Global Diplomacy from SOAS University of London and a Master of Applied Science from the University of Toronto. Before founding IPD, Mr. Ahmadi worked in strategy and management roles in the financial services and real estate sectors, where he honed his skills in organizational leadership and operational planning. He also served on the executive boards of several Canadian non-profits and NGOs, including the Toronto branch of the Canadian International Council.

[SOLD OUT] The 4th Forum on China-Quebec Cooperation: Hainan Free Trade Port and Opening-up - New Cooperation Opportunities with China
2025-10-09 16:30 - 20:00 (America/Toronto) | Fasken, 333 Bay St, Suite 2400, Toronto, Ontario, M5H 2T6, Canada
The 4th China–Quebec Cooperation Forum will provide a unique platform for Quebec’s business, academic, and governmental leaders to explore opportunities for collaboration, with a special focus on the Hainan Free Trade Port. The forum will highlight how this emerging free trade zone is reshaping international trade and investment, and how Quebec companies can leverage these opportunities to expand their presence in China.
The Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Montreal, Dai Yuming, will deliver an opening keynote on the policies regarding the Hainan Free Trade Port and Opening-up. A distinguished panel of speakers will also be invited to provide their insights on the development and cooperation between Quebec and China, with a particular focus on commerce, education, and cultural exchanges.
Date: October 9, 2025, 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Fasken, 800, rue du Square-Victoria, bureau 3500, Montreal, Quebec H3C 0B4
Tickets: This event is by invitation only. Please reach out to Claire Zhang, Claire@ccbc.com, Director, Quebec Chapter for the registration code.

Event Agenda:
4:30 – 5:00 PM EDT: Registration & Networking
5:00 – 5:05 PM EDT: Welcoming Remarks

Speaker: Mr. Ponora Ang, Partner | Co-Head, Asia-Pacific Group

5:05 – 5:20 PM EDT: Opening Remarks

Speaker: Mr. DAI Yuming, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Montreal

5:20 – 5:30 PM EDT: China’s Opening-up to the World

Speaker: Mr. CAI Xin, Consul in charge of Economic Affairs, Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Montreal

5:30 – 5:45 PM EDT: Teabreak
5:45 – 6:15 PM EDT: Panel Discussion: China–Quebec Cooperation – Expanding Horizons – Moderated by M. Ponora Ang
Panellists

M. Sylvain St-Amand – Representative, education sector, Quebec universities
Mme Lory Wang – Arctica Food
M. Louis Bellemare – Founder, SAMAJAM
M. Derek Pickford – Vice President of Sales & Marketing, IDC Dermo

6:15 PM – 6:20 PM EDT: Closing Remarks
6:20 PM – 8:00 PM EDT: Networking

Speakers:

DAI Yuming
Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Montreal
Mr. DAI Yuming has assumed the position of the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Montreal since December 2022. Since 1992, he worked at different positions in Department of African Affairs, Department of Personnel and Department of Policy Planning of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, and served several terms at the Chinese Embassies in Liberia, the United States, Sierra Leone, Namibia, and Israel. He was also Deputy Mayor of Sanya City, Hainan Province, from 2016 to 2019.

Bijan Ahmadi
Executive Director & COO
Canada China Business Council
Bijan Ahmadi serves as the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Canada China Business Council (CCBC), overseeing the operations and activities of the Council across its seven chapters in Canada and China.
Before joining CCBC, he co-founded and served as the Executive Director of the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy (IPD) from 2018 to 2024. IPD is a non-partisan think tank operating in Canada and the United States, dedicated to fostering constructive engagement and interest-based thinking in international affairs.
During his tenure at IPD, Mr. Ahmadi launched the organization’s Asia research program in 2020 and its flagship annual conference, the Indo-Pacific Strategy Forum (IPSF), in Ottawa in 2021. Today, IPSF is recognized as Canada’s premier conference on the country’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. He was also the co-editor of Canada-China Brief, a biweekly policy newsletter providing the latest developments and expert insights on political and economic relations between Ottawa and Beijing.
In his work on China, Mr. Ahmadi has advised large corporations and SMEs on navigating Canada-China trade, policy, and regulatory developments. He has also spearheaded the publication of numerous research reports on China and Canada-China relations and led Track 2 diplomacy initiatives in collaboration with Chinese and American research institutions.
Mr. Ahmadi holds a Master’s degree in Global Diplomacy from SOAS University of London and a Master of Applied Science from the University of Toronto. Before founding IPD, Mr. Ahmadi worked in strategy and management roles in the financial services and real estate sectors, where he honed his skills in organizational leadership and operational planning. He also served on the executive boards of several Canadian non-profits and NGOs, including the Toronto branch of the Canadian International Council.

Derek Pickford
Vice President of Sales & Marketing
IDC DERMO
Derek Pickford is Vice President of Sales & Marketing at IDC Dermo, a Canadian doctor-founded dermo-cosmetic brand recognized for its science-backed formulations and transformative results. In this role, he leads cross-functional teams spanning sales, marketing, digital, education, and business intelligence, driving growth locally and spearheading expansion across English Canada and international markets.
With more than a decade of experience in the beauty and FMCG industries, Derek is known for building strong retailer partnerships, shaping disruptive go-to-market strategies, and delivering consistent above-market growth. His leadership has been recognized with multiple industry accolades, including Walmart’s Vendor of the Year Award for excellence in collaboration and business results.
Passionate about consumer-centricity and purpose-driven initiatives, Derek has championed programs that combine performance with sustainability, community support, and diversity. His modern leadership style emphasizes data-driven decision making, collaborative innovation, and a culture of excellence and empowerment.
Outside of work, Derek enjoys travel, food, and creating meaningful memories with family and friends.

Lory Wang
CEO
Arctica Food Group Canada Inc.
Lory Wang is a foodie and second-generation entrepreneur. After her studies in finance and accounting, and several years auditing SMEs, she decided to take the plunge. With the awakening of the Chinese market for imported goods and her love of food, she co-founded Arctica Food Group Canada in 2012. The group’s mission has always been to offer natural, healthy and delicious food, with a certain cachet, in which west meets east. Arctica Food became the pioneer and leading brand in Canadian wild sea cucumbers and established Quebec’s sea cucumber industry. Since the Chinese middle class clientele is open-minded but exposed to too many options, Arctica Food focuses on food education to build product recognition and brand loyalty. With her team, Ms. Wang continues to develop new food products that are nutritious and customized to the eating behaviours of the Chinese consumer, such as honey, soybeans, cooking oil, health supplements, etc. As a board member of Groupe Export Agroalimentaire, she wants to promote Quebec’s high-quality food products, sometimes even unknown locally, and encourage more people to export overseas and to build international relationships. Food brings us closer; let’s share it together!

Louis Bellemare
Founder
SAMAJAM
Louis Bellemare is the founder of SAMAJAM, a global leader in participatory musical entertainment. Over the past 25 years, his vision of uniting people through collective music-making has led him to produce more than 6,000 live shows and events in 10 countries, engaging over 1.2 million participants worldwide. In China, his 2018 creation, the SAMAJAM Kid & Family Music Show, became one of the most successful international productions ever staged, touring with up to six teams at once and delivering more than 1,500 performances across 40 cities. Drawing on his background as a venture capitalist, creative entrepreneur, and live show creator, and with nearly 10 years of experience living and touring abroad in culturally diverse countries, Louis brings unique expertise in international business development, with a particular focus on Asia.

Ponora Ang
Partner, Co-Leader Asia-Pacific Group
Fasken
Ponora Ang is a Partner at Fasken and the Co-Leader of the Asia Pacific Group of the firm.
He is a manufacturing and product liability lawyer. In addition to his commercial litigation practice, Mr. Ang is well known to companies in the Asia-Pacific region for his legal and strategic advice regarding investment and implementation projects in Canada. He advises businesses from China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia in different industries for their operations in Canada.
Mr. Ang counsels and represents clients in the areas of real estate, product liability, manufacturing, sale and leasing, insurance, and franchise law. He is regularly asked to represent the interests of manufacturers, producers, distributors, and sellers in the automotive, medical, security, and aviation industries. In addition, he regularly advises state-owned enterprises, private companies, and individuals from Asia seeking to expand their business activities in Canada in a variety of industries.
He received YBAM’s Lawyer of the Year 2010 award in civil and commercial litigation. Mr. Ang was also recognized in the prestigious Lexpert Rising Star 2021 / Top 40 Under 40 in Canada list for his legal expertise. In addition, in 2023, he was awarded the Medal of the National Assembly of Québec in honour of his numerous engagements for the society over the years.
Mr. Ang continues to be involved in a number of committees and boards of directors in Quebec, both in business and trade associations as well as for charitable organizations. In addition to his professional practice and community involvement, he is also a caregiver whose daily life was the subject of a documentary by ICI Radio-Canada in 2022.

Sylvain St-Amand
Representative, education sector
Quebec universities
Sylvain St-Amand is president of St-Amand International, a company specializing in the internationalization of education. He also serves as Chairman of the Board of the World Centre of Excellence for Destinations, a non-profit organization that guides destinations toward sustainable development and biodiversity protection. The CED signed a partnership agreement with Tsinghua University in January 2025.
Sylvain brings extensive experience in international education management. From 2019 to 2023, he headed the International Relations Office of the University of Luxembourg, following his tenure as director of the International Relations Office at the Université du Québec à Montréal from 2006 to 2019. Prior to this, he served as executive director of the Center for International Management Studies in the Faculty of Management of McGill University from 1990 to 2006.
Throughout his career, he has been deeply involved in China-related initiatives, developing numerous university partnerships and organizing bilateral events such as the Canada-China Forum on Innovation, Science and Technology, which he organized in 2018 in collaboration with the Chinese Academy of Sciences. His academic contributions include teaching “Performing Consulting Work in China” at UQAM (Winter-Spring 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019) and “Doing Business in a Multipolar World” at the École nationale d’administration publique from 2016 to 2019.
He currently serves as a board member of the Canada-China Business Council – Quebec Chapter Advisory Committee and has been a recipient of a Canada-China scholarship, which enabled him to study modern Chinese history at Fudan University in 1986-1987.

Mr. CAI Xin
Consul in charge of Economic Affairs
Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Montreal

Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

Toronto Global Forum 2025
2025-10-15 - 2025-10-17 | BC
The Toronto Global Forum 2025 will take place from October 15–17, 2025, in Toronto, Canada. This premier international gathering brings together global leaders and experts to explore key issues including financial strategies, trade policies, sustainable development, resilient supply chains, and the role of innovation and technology in shaping global growth and security.

Exclusive ticket options for members include a 50% discount on 1-day or 3-day full-access passes, which provide guaranteed seats at daily luncheons with keynote speakers, access to networking cocktails, and full use of the B2B/2GO platform to schedule one-on-one meetings. Members also benefit from complimentary session-only passes, which exclude luncheons and app access.

The speaker lineup features influential voices from across industries, including Dominic Barton (Chairman, Rio Tinto and LeapFrog Investments), Galen G. Weston (Chairman and CEO, George Weston Limited), Scott Thomson (President and CEO, Scotiabank), Darryl White (CEO, BMO Financial Group), Börje Ekholm (President and CEO, Ericsson), and Malin Norberg (Chief Investment Officer, Norges Bank Investment Management).

50% Discount on Regular Tickets: https://www.torontoglobalforum.com#/buyTickets?promoCode=INST_CCBC_50
Complimentary Tickets: https://www.torontoglobalforum.com#/buyTickets?promoCode=INST_CCBC_COMP

*Note: Complimentary passes provide access to all three days of conference sessions. They do not include luncheons, networking cocktails, or access to the B2B/2GO meeting platform, which are reserved for full-access ticket holders.

The Canada China Business Council is proud to be a Knowledge Partner of the Toronto Global Forum.

China Crossborder Summit Live
2025-10-16 | BC
CCBC member WPIC Marketing + Technologies, in partnership with Tmall Global, will host the China Cross-Border Summit on October 16, 2025, in Los Angeles, California, with limited livestream access available.
This exclusive, invitation-only forum is tailored for North American consumer brands seeking to access China’s US$76.4 billion cross-border import e-commerce market. Participants will benefit from direct insights shared by senior leaders at Alibaba, as well as WPIC’s leading strategy, creative, and operations teams. The program will feature executive keynotes, practical workshops, and private networking opportunities.
Attendance is limited, with priority access extended to CCBC members.
Click to register for the livestream

[SOLD OUT] CCBC 2025 Canadian Education Mission to China
2025-10-30 - 2025-11-03 | Shanghai and Beijing, China
The Canadian education sector has long been recognized for its excellence, openness, and innovation. As international education evolves, Canada remains a trusted destination for Chinese students and a valued partner for institutions across China. At the same time, both countries are navigating important shifts in education policy, student mobility, and global competition. In this context, the 2025 Canadian Education Mission to China aims to reset, renew, and deepen cooperation and partnership between Canadian and Chinese educational institutions.
Organized by the Canada China Business Council (CCBC), this mission will bring together Canadian universities, colleges, high schools, and education service providers for in-person engagement with Chinese education partners. The focus this year will be on strengthening institutional relationships, building collaborative academic programs, and supporting resilient student pathways amid changing immigration and market dynamics.
The four-day program includes education forums, school and campus visits, and customized matchmaking meetings in Shanghai and Beijing. Participants will have the opportunity to meet with Chinese universities, colleges, high schools, and education agencies, as well as government-affiliated organizations in the education sector. The mission also aligns with CCBC’s 47th AGM & Business Forum in Beijing, offering additional exposure and networking opportunities with senior Canadian and Chinese officials and business leaders.
Click here for more information and to apply.

[SOLD OUT] CCBC 2025 Canadian Agri-Food Mission to China
2025-11-02 - 2025-11-07 | Shanghai and Beijing, China
Canada’s agri-food sector is a vital pillar of the national economy, contributing $143.8 billion annually—around 7% of GDP. China remains one of Canada’s most important and strategic export markets. As global competition intensifies and market access challenges persist, it is critical for Canadian agri-food exporters to strengthen their presence and partnerships in China.
We are entering a new era of opportunity, marked by renewed momentum in Canada-China relations. The recent dialogue between Prime Minister Carney and Chinese Premier Li Qiang and their decision to resume high level government-to-government dialogues to resolve outstanding trade issues, signal a positive shift towards reviving economic cooperation. Building on this momentum, the Canadian Agri-Food Mission to China is a timely initiative that aims to demonstrate Canada’s commitment to the Chinese market, foster deeper partnerships, and enhance market engagement for Canadian agri-food exporters, while leveraging key government and industry relationships to unlock new opportunities.
This mission offers a unique opportunity to align, engage, and grow within China’s evolving agri-food landscape. It is also a critical moment for the Canadian business community to demonstrate its collective commitment to supporting exports to China and advocating for fair and reciprocal market access. Join us in advancing Canada’s agri-food leadership in China.
Click here for more information and to apply.

[SOLD OUT] CCBC 47th AGM & Business Forum
2025-11-03 | China World Summit Wing, Beijing, No.1 Jianguomenwai Avenue, Beijing, 100004, China
CCBC’s annual flagship event, the AGM & Business Forum, has been a cornerstone of Canada-China business engagement for 47 years. Join us in Beijing on November 3, 2025, for CCBC’s 47th AGM & Business Forum. The 47th AGM will once again coincide with incoming delegations and welcome participation from Canadian stakeholders at all levels of government, creating unmatched opportunities for strategic connections, policy discussions, and business growth.
AGM Business Forum
Monday, November 3, 2025
China World Summit Wing, Beijing
北京国贸大酒店
No.1 Jianguomenwai Avenue, Beijing 100004, China
中国北京建国门外大街1号 邮政编码 100004
Morning conference
AGM Business Dinner
Monday, November 3, 2025
China World Summit Wing, Beijing
北京国贸大酒店
No.1 Jianguomenwai Avenue, Beijing 100004, China
中国北京建国门外大街1号 邮政编码 100004
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Registration & Reception
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Business Dinner
Registration is now open. Visit ccbcagm.com for more information and to purchase tickets.
Various levels of sponsorship are available, please contact your Chapter Director or for general inquiries, contact (events@ccbc.com) for more information.

UWindsor Alumni in China — Shanghai (Nov 8) and Beijing (Nov 12)
2025-11-08 - 2025-11-12 | BC
A senior delegation from the University of Windsor will be in Shanghai (Nov 8) and Beijing (Nov 12) for an exclusive Alumni Dinner & Networking Reception — we would love to reconnect with you in person.
Why attend

Reconnect with fellow Windsor alumni living and working in China
Meet the Provost, Deans & UWindsor senior leadership
Hear updates on global initiatives and partnerships
Dinner, souvenirs & prize draws

Shanghai — Conrad Shanghai
Beijing — Ritz-Carlton Beijing

Register now: Click here

If you know other UWindsor alumni in China, please share this post or forward the link!

Mitigating Risk, Maximizing Trade: Strategies in Trade Finance for Global Engagement
2025-11-25 08:00 - 10:30 (America/Vancouver) | RBC Royal Bank of Canada, EDR – 36 Floor, 1055 West Georgia St., Vancouver, British Columbia, V6E 3S5, Canada
The Canada China Business Council (CCBC) is pleased to host a morning event titled Mitigating Risk, Maximizing Trade: Strategies in Trade Finance for Global Engagement, on November 25 in Vancouver.
This event will bring together financial experts, business leaders, and exporters to explore the shifting trans-pacific trade landscape, China’s role in Canada’s diversification strategy, and the practical tools companies can leverage to manage risk and expand internationally.
As global markets evolve, Canadian businesses are reassessing their export strategies. Participants will hear fresh economic perspectives, receive insights into trade finance and foreign exchange, and explore real-world examples of how companies are navigating change.
Whether you’re a seasoned exporter or just starting to explore new markets, take advantage of this opportunity to gain actionable guidance and valuable connections to help strengthen your business in China and beyond.
Date: Tuesday, November 25th, 2025
Time: 8:00 – 10:30 AM PST
Location: RBC Royal Bank of Canada, EDR – 36 Floor, 1055 West Georgia St. Vancouver, BC V6E 3S5
Agenda:
8:00 AM PST: Registration and networking
8:30 AM PST: Remarks, Presentations, Q&A

Economic recovery in uncertain times – Robert Hogue, Assistant Chief Economist, RBC Royal Bank of Canada
Navigating Trade Finance in Uncertain Times – Andy McCaughren, Senior Business Development Manager, Trade Finance, RBC Royal Bank of Canada
FX Risk in Canada-China Transactions – Joanne Carnell, Director, Fixed Income & Currencies, RBC Capital Markets

10:30 AM PST: Event ends
Tickets:

CCBC Members: $25 + tax
Non-Members: $100 + tax

Click here to register

Refund and Cancellation Policy:
Payment is non-refundable unless the Canada China Business Council cancels the event.

Speakers:

Joanne Carnell
Director, Fixed Income & Currencies
RBC Capital Markets
Joanne Carnell is a Director with RBC Capital Markets and manages the Vancouver Middle Markets Foreign Exchange desk. She has been with RBC since 2009. Joanne provides foreign exchange trading, advice and risk management strategies for RBC clients. Prior to joining RBC, Joanne spent 10 years trading foreign exchange, bonds and equities for an institutional investment manager. Joanne holds a BA from the University of British Columbia and is a CFA charter-holder.

Robert Hogue
Assistant Chief Economist
RBC Royal Bank of Canada
Robert Hogue is responsible for providing analysis and forecasts on the Canadian housing market and provincial economies. His publications include Housing Trends and Affordability, Provincial Outlook and provincial budget commentaries. In his functions, he is frequently called to comment on the economy, both internally within RBC and externally with clients and the media.
Robert joined RBC in May 2008 after spending 15 years with another Canadian financial institution as a senior economist specializing in industrial analysis. At the outset of his career, he spent four years as an economist with Ontario Hydro, where he specialized in industrial and macroeconomic analysis. Robert holds a Master’s degree in economics from Queen’s University and a Bachelor’s degree from Université de Montréal.

Joyce Lee
Partner and Chair of Asia Group
McCarthy Tétrault LLP
Joyce brings a unique perspective to her practice, skillfully uniting Canadian companies seeking Chinese investors with Chinese companies looking to expand into North America. She also regularly advises corporate executives in the financial sector about taking advantage of opportunities and navigating risk.
Born and raised in Hong Kong and with over 20 years experience working in the North American marketplace, Joyce has both the cultural and business skills necessary to view potential deals from each party’s perspective. Her communication skills – she speaks English, Mandarin and Cantonese fluently – smoothly guide Asian companies into Canada, including joint ventures in mining and other natural resources sectors; and, the technology, life science and real estates industries.
Joyce earned her BA (Hons) (Jurisprudence) in 1989 and her MA in 1996 from Oxford University, England. Admitted as a solicitor in England and Wales in 1992 and Hong Kong in 1993, she was called to the British Columbia bar in 1995 and practised in London, England and Hong Kong before joining us in our Vancouver office in 1994. Joyce’s professional affiliations include serving as the Legislative Liaison of the Canadian Bar Association, Securities Law section; the Law Society of England and Wales; the Law Society of Hong Kong; the Law Society of British Columbia; the Canadian Bar Association; the Canada-China Business Council and the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association.
As Chair of the firm’s Asia Group and a regular speaker at conferences and seminars focused on business from China and the Asia Pacific region, Joyce has earned an international reputation as an authority in her field.

Angelina Li
Vice-President, North Shore, Commercial Financial Services
RBC Royal Bank of Canada
Angelina Li is the Vice President of Commercial Financial Services at RBC, where she leads a team supporting businesses across a wide range of industries in Greater Vancouver. In her current role, Angelina empowers her team to drive client growth by delivering tailored financial solutions – including M&A, commercial real estate financing, cash management, foreign exchange, and trade finance.
Prior to her current position, Angelina served as Vice President in RBC’s Corporate Client Group, where she specialized in arranging syndicated loan solutions for Canadian private companies and small-cap publicly traded companies. Earlier, she led a nationally top-ranked team as Vice President, Financing Specialists, earning the RBC Leadership Award for her outstanding contributions.
Outside of work, Angelina volunteers as a Mentor with the UBC Executive Mentorship Program, where she supports immigrant students in finding their career path and navigating professional opportunities in Canada. She is fluent in English and Mandarin and passionate about giving back to the community. Angelina holds a Master of Business Administration with studies at the Sauder School of Business, University of British Columbia, and completed exchange programs at Yale School of Management and the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford. She also holds a Bachelor of Commerce with a specialization in Finance and Entrepreneurship from UBC.

Andy McCaughren
Director, Trade Finance
RBC Royal Bank of Canada
Andy has over 20 years’ experience in structuring Trade Finance and working capital facilities for a wide range of industries.
He has worked with clients from start-up level to international corporates in both his native London (UK) for HSBC and RBC in Canada, where he currently works with businesses in BC and the Prairies advising on international trade strategy, risk mitigation, and cash flow optimization.

Beau Olmstead
Vice President, Commercial Financial Services
RBC Royal Bank of Canada
Beau has been with RBC Royal Bank since 1997, engaged in both the commercial banking and capital markets sides of financial services. He has covered many sectors including residential and commercial real estate construction, industrial manufacturing, consumer retail, diversified industries, health, and the public sector. Beau currently leads the Commercial Banking business for RBC in the Richmond / South Delta markets.
Beau is a member of various associations: Director of the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Association – BC Division (Policy Committee member); past Director of the Delta Chamber of Commerce (Chair – Governance Committee; Finance Committee member); past Board Member/Treasurer of the South Delta Minor Hockey Association; and past hockey coach.
Before joining RBC in Victoria, Beau completed his Bachelor of Commerce degree, specializing in International Business, at the University of Victoria, in conjunction with Kanagawa University in Yokohama, Japan. In addition, Beau completed his Master of Business Administration at Royal Roads University.
Beau lives in Tsawwassen with his wife and two young adult children.

Click here to register
Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

[SOLD OUT] Canada–China Forum on Trade and Investment Cooperation
2025-12-01 11:30 - 14:00 (America/Toronto) | Fasken, 333 Bay St, Suite 2400, Toronto, Ontario, M5H 2T6, Canada
The Canada China Business Council (CCBC) and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) are pleased to invite you to the Canada–China Forum on Trade and Investment Cooperation, taking place on Monday, December 1, 2025, in Toronto, Ontario. The event will run from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with registration and networking beginning at 11:30 a.m., followed by the formal program and a buffet lunch starting at 12:00 p.m.
The Forum will feature Mr. REN Hongbin, Chairman of CCPIT, as the keynote speaker. His travel to Canada and participation in this forum highlight the renewed momentum in Canada–China commercial engagement and the shared commitment of both countries to strengthening cooperation in trade and investment.
The program will also include an information session about the 4th China International Supply Chain Expo, providing an opportunity for participants to learn more about this flagship initiative and explore how Canadian businesses can engage with China’s evolving supply chain and investment landscape.
Bringing together senior business leaders, investors, and policymakers from both countries, the Forum will serve as a platform for dialogue on advancing bilateral trade, exploring investment opportunities, and fostering economic collaboration.
Date: Monday, December 1, 2025, 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m EST
Location: Fasken, 333 Bay St, Suite 2400, Toronto, ON, Canada
Tickets: Attendance is open to CCBC members and CCPIT-invited guests only.

Speakers

REN Hongbin
Chairman
China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT)
Mr. REN Hongbin joined the Ministry of Commerce and worked successively as commercial counselor in China’s Embassy in Hungary, Vice President of Chinese Academy of International Trade & Economic Cooperation, Director-General of Department of WTO Affairs, Director-General of China WTO Notification and Inquiry Center, Director-General of Department of Foreign Trade, Deputy Director-General of National Mechanic and Electronic Import and Export Office, Assistant Minister of Commerce and Vice Minister of Commerce. He has been the CCPIT Chairman since January 2022.

LUO Weidong
Consul General
Chinese Consulate General in Toronto
Mr. LUO Weidong was born in December 1967 and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree.
He began his career in 1990 in the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation, which is now the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China.
He assumed his role as Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Toronto in September 2023.

Dr. DENG Jun
President & CEO
Bank of China (Canada)
Principal Officer
Bank of China Toronto Branch
Board Director
Canada China Business Council

Dr. DENG Jun, President and CEO of Bank of China (Canada) and Principal Officer of Bank of China Toronto Branch, holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Wuhan University and has played an integral role in the Bank of China Group since 1990. His journey within the Bank includes key positions that underscore his expertise.
In 2001, he served as General Manager of the Bank of China Wuhan ETD Branch, contributing significantly to the Bank’s growth. In 2006, he took on the role of Deputy Managing Director at Dongfeng Peugeot Citroen Auto Finance Company Ltd., a joint venture between Bank of China Group Insurance Company Ltd., Dongfeng Peugeot-Citroen Automobile Company Ltd., and Banque PSA Finance.
In 2009, Dr. Deng was appointed Assistant General Manager at the Bank of China Limited Head Office Corporate Banking Group and in 2012, he became Country Head of Bank of China Limited – Manila Branch, showcasing his versatility on the international stage. Since October of the same year, he has been fulfilling his current roles, leading as President and CEO of Bank of China (Canada) and Principal Officer of Bank of China Toronto Branch.

LIN Shunjie
President
China International Exhibition Center Group Limited (CIEC)
Chairman
Exhibition Commission of the China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC)
Mr. Lin Shunjie has served as Chairman of the China International Exhibition Center Group Limited (CIEC) since 2019 and concurrently as Chairman of the board and chairman of the Exhibition Commission of the China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC). With over two decades of experience at the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and CCOIC, Mr. Lin has played a key role in promoting international trade cooperation and developing China’s exhibition and investment promotion sector. He previously held senior positions with the CCPIT’s Trade and Investment Promotion Department and the Administrative Committee of the Pingtan Comprehensive Pilot Zone. Mr. Lin holds a Master’s degree from Peking University and the National Academy of Governance and a Bachelor’s degree from the Foreign Affairs College.

Bijan Ahmadi
Executive Director & COO
Canada China Business Council
Bijan Ahmadi serves as the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Canada China Business Council (CCBC), overseeing the operations and activities of the Council across its seven chapters in Canada and China.
Before joining CCBC, he co-founded and served as the Executive Director of the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy (IPD) from 2018 to 2024. IPD is a non-partisan think tank operating in Canada and the United States, dedicated to fostering constructive engagement and interest-based thinking in international affairs.
During his tenure at IPD, Mr. Ahmadi launched the organization’s Asia research program in 2020 and its flagship annual conference, the Indo-Pacific Strategy Forum (IPSF), in Ottawa in 2021. Today, IPSF is recognized as Canada’s premier conference on the country’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific region. He was also the co-editor of Canada-China Brief, a biweekly policy newsletter providing the latest developments and expert insights on political and economic relations between Ottawa and Beijing.
In his work on China, Mr. Ahmadi has advised large corporations and SMEs on navigating Canada-China trade, policy, and regulatory developments. He has also spearheaded the publication of numerous research reports on China and Canada-China relations and led Track 2 diplomacy initiatives in collaboration with Chinese and American research institutions.
Mr. Ahmadi holds a Master’s degree in Global Diplomacy from SOAS University of London and a Master of Applied Science from the University of Toronto. Before founding IPD, Mr. Ahmadi worked in strategy and management roles in the financial services and real estate sectors, where he honed his skills in organizational leadership and operational planning. He also served on the executive boards of several Canadian non-profits and NGOs, including the Toronto branch of the Canadian International Council.

Jack Yu
Partner; Co-Leader, China Practice Group
Fasken
Board Director
Canada China Business Council

Jack Yu (于华洲) is an experienced business lawyer, with a focus on private mergers & acquisition and cross-border transactions. Mr. Yu has advised clients on over several billion dollars of M&A, private equity, corporate reorganization, and complex commercial transactions, spanning across multiple industries and sectors.
As Co-Leader of the firm’s China Practice Group, Mr. Yu regularly travels to China and is actively involved in the Asian legal community in Canada. He is often relied on by Chinese clients both from overseas and in Canada for sophisticated transactions and day-to-day legal issues. Mr. Yu also has experience in the foreign investments review process in Canada.
Prior to attending law school, Mr. Yu earned an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and philosophy from the University of Toronto. He is on the Board of the Federation of Asian Canadian Lawyers, Ontario Chapter. Born and raised in Jinan, Shandong, Mr. Yu is fluent in Mandarin.

Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

Delegation Visit From Shanghai Lingang Group Economic Development
2025-12-01 13:00 - 14:30 (America/Vancouver) | Private: Lawson Lundell, Cathedral Place, 925 West Georgia St., Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 2L1, Canada
We invite you to join a meeting hosted by CCBC member Sunnylife Health Enterprises with a delegation from Shanghai Lingang Group Economic Development, led by SUN Meng, Vice President of Shanghai Lingang Economic Development (Group) Co., Ltd. This session will be particularly valuable for companies interested in doing business in Shanghai, as well as those in the medical devices sector.
Date: Monday, December 1, 2025
Time: 1:00 – 2:30 pm
Location: Lawson Lundell, Cathedral Place, 925 West Georgia St., Vancouver, BC V6C 2L1
RSVP: info@sunnylifehealth.com
About the delegation: Shanghai Lingang Economic Development (Group) Co., Ltd. (“Lingang Group”) is a state-owned enterprise, and also one of the top 500 enterprises of the service sector in China. The company specializes in the investment and operation of industrial and business parks, providing professional services for enterprises and investing in science and technological innovation. Its primary mission is to serve as the main force in the development and construction of Lin-gang Special Area, and to become an important participant in the industrial upgrading of key areas of Shanghai.
For more details, click on the link for the delegation list, organization overview, and brochure for your reference.
To secure your spot, please RSVP to David Tan, CEO of Sunnylife Health Enterprises, at info@sunnylifehealth.com at your earliest convenience.

Meet the Honourable Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta - A Conversation With the Canadian Indo Pacific Business Community
2025-12-04 10:30 - 12:00 (Asia/Shanghai) | BC
The Canada China Business Council invites CCBC Members to join an online address by The Honourable Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta, to the CanChams of the Indo-Pacific region on December 4, 2025.
Premier Smith will outline Alberta’s economic priorities and the province’s approach to deepening engagement with Asia-Pacific markets. The session will offer timely insights into Alberta’s policy direction, trade objectives, and emerging opportunities for cooperation across key sectors.
Date: December 4, 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m. (Beijing Time)
We encourage CCBC Members to participate in this important discussion, which will support ongoing efforts to strengthen business relationships and advance commercial collaboration throughout the region.
Registration will open shortly. Please check back for updates!

2025 Christmas Dinner in Beijing
2025-12-13 18:00 - 21:00 (Asia/Shanghai) | The St. Regis Beijing, Astor Ballroom, No.21 Jianguomenwai Avenue, Beijing, Chaoyang District, China
Please join the CanCham Beijing and the British Chamber for our joint Christmas celebration on Saturday, December 13, 2025. Bringing on the success of last year’s Christmas Gala Dinner in Beijing, this year’s joint Christmas dinner brings an even bigger helping of festive cheer to Beijing.
As we celebrate another successful year for CCBC and our partners, we look forward to reconnecting with our members and friends and reflecting on the continued growth of our networks, partnerships, and collaborative initiatives.
Join the international community at The St. Regis Beijing for a fun-filled evening of festive food and entertainment. Enjoy a traditional Christmas buffet menu, prize draws, and live performances, with a special visit from Santa Claus.
Date: Saturday, December 13th, 2025
Agenda:
6:00-7:00 pm CST: Registration & Reception
7:00-9:00 pm CST: Christmas Buffet (A special visit from Santa Claus will take place around 8 pm!)
Location:
Astor Ballroom
The St. Regis Beijing
No.21 Jianguomenwai Street, Chaoyang District, Beijing
Ticket Prices for Individuals:
CCBC/CanCham Member: RMB 800
Non-member: RMB 1280
Children between 6 to 12: RMB 250
Kids under 6 join free! (Limit of 1 ticket per purchase)
Click to register
For Sponsorship and Corporate tables, please contact Candice Zhao: candice@ccbc.com.cn

Why Canada Needs to Diversify Towards Asia
2026-01-16 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Vancouver) | BC
Event Overview
Join an online webinar featuring a conversation between Stewart Beck and Dominic Barton on why Canada needs to diversify its economic and strategic engagement toward Asia, followed by a live Q&A.
Hosted by the Jack Austin Centre for Asia Pacific Business Studies, this session offers timely insights for business leaders, policymakers, and professionals interested in Canada–Asia relations.
Click through for full event details and registration
Registration Details

Free Registration
The webinar link will be shared with registered participants
Live Q&A will be included at the end of the session
Registration closes on January 15, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. PDT

About the Organizers
The Jack Austin Centre for Asia Pacific Business Studies at Simon Fraser University’s Beedie School of Business is dedicated to fostering greater understanding between Canada and the Asia-Pacific region through education, research, and dialogue.
Led by Dr. Jing Li, Professor of International Business and Director of the Centre, the Jack Austin Centre serves as a hub for collaboration among academia, government, and industry. It leads initiatives such as the LINC Asia Micro-credential Program, which helps prepare the next generation of Canadian leaders to engage effectively with Asia’s dynamic markets and policy environments.

[SOLD OUT] CCBC 2026 New Year Networking Cocktail Reception
2026-01-22 16:30 - 19:30 (America/Toronto) | Gowling WLG, 1 First Canadian Place, 100 King Street West, Suite 1600, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Start 2026 with insight, introductions, and impact.
The 2026 Canada China Business Council (CCBC) New Year Networking Cocktail Reception will bring together members and invited guests in Toronto for an evening designed to foster informed engagement and meaningful business connections. The program will feature a Canadian economic outlook, offering timely perspectives on the financial forecasts for 2026 to help participants set priorities for the year ahead.
Participants will gain early visibility into their peers, their organizations, and areas of interest, enabling more curated and effective networking throughout the evening. The program will also feature remarks on the outlook for Canada–China relations, offering forward-looking perspectives on the evolving bilateral landscape. The event will conclude with a cocktail reception, creating space to deepen conversations and turn introductions into lasting professional relationships.
Join us on January 22, 2026, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Gowling WLG, First Canadian Place. New year, new connections.
Date: January 22, 2026
Time: 4:30 – 7:30 PM EST
Location: Gowling WLG (1 First Canadian Place, 100 King Street West, Suite 1600, Toronto)
Dress Code: Business Formal

Tickets:
$25 (tax included)
This is a CCBC member & invited guests-only event. Each member organization may register up to two (2) participants.

The first 20 registered member organizations will have the opportunity to deliver a 1.5-minute company self-introduction, highlighting their services or products. Participation is available on a first-come, first-served basis and is subject to program time availability.
Refund and Cancellation Policy:Payment is non-refundable unless the Canada China Business Council cancels the event.

Agenda:
4:30 – 5:00 PM EST: Registration and Networking
5:00 – 6:00 PM EST: Presentation & Member Self-Introductions
6:00 – 7:30 PM EST: Cocktail Reception

Thank you to our sponsors:

Venue Host

Sponsor

Speakers:

LUO WeidongConsul GeneralChinese Consulate General in Toronto

Biography
Mr. LUO Weidong was born in December 1967 and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree.
He began his career in 1990 in the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation, which is now the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China.
He assumed his role as Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Toronto in September 2023.

Board Director of CCBC

Thomas J. TimminsPartnerGowling WLG (Canada) LLP

Biography
Tom Timmins (谭民思) is a senior projects lawyer based in Canada focused primarily on renewable energy projects and the global energy transition. He leads the Energy Sector Practice at Gowling WLG Canada. Named a ‘Leading Lawyer’ by The Legal 500 Canada and Who’s Who Legal, Mr. Timmins serves as a Board member of the Canadian Ditchley Foundation, as an advisor at the Centre for Urban Energy at Metropolitan Toronto University, as a member of the Legal Committee of Transparency International and on several public and private boards. He also teaches Infrastructure and Project Finance Law and serves as an adjudicator under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement. Mr. Timmins served as the Leader of Gowling WLG Canada’s highly successful China Practice between 2016-2024.

Farah OmranSenior EconomistScotiabank

Biography
Farah Omran joined Scotiabank Economics in 2021, working with the team on macroeconomic forecasting and stress testing as a primary responsibility. Farah joined Scotiabank after having spent some time as a policy analyst at the C.D. Howe Institute. Farah holds a Master’s Degree in Economics from the University of Toronto, where she was a fellow at Massey College.

Bijan AhmadiExecutive Director & COOCanada China Business Council

Biography
Bijan Ahmadi is the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Canada China Business Council (CCBC), where he leads the Council’s strategic direction, operations, and programming across all seven chapters in Canada and China. In this capacity, he also serves on CCBC’s Board of Directors and its Executive Committee.
As a recognized voice in Canada–China relations, Bijan works closely with senior executives, policymakers, and institutional partners to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties, advance member services, and position Canadian companies for success in the Chinese market. His work focuses on translating policy and regulatory developments into practical insights for business leaders and supporting high-level commercial engagement between the two countries.
Prior to joining CCBC, Bijan co-founded and served as Executive Director of the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy (IPD) from 2018 to 2024, where he helped build the organization into a respected binational foreign policy think tank operating in Canada and the United States. During this period, he launched IPD’s Asia research program and its annual flagship conference, the Indo-Pacific Strategy Forum (IPSF) in Ottawa, now widely regarded as Canada’s leading platform for policy and economic dialogue on the Asia-Pacific region. He was also co-editor of Canada–China Brief, an online policy publication covering political and economic developments in the bilateral relationship.
Throughout his work on China, Bijan has advised multinational corporations and small and medium-sized enterprises on navigating Canada–China trade, regulatory, and policy environments. He has led Track 2 and Track 1.5 dialogue initiatives in partnership with Chinese, Canadian and American institutions and he regularly delivers lectures and professional training on Canada–China economic relations for public and private sector audiences.
Bijan also serves on the Advisory Board of the Canada China Forum, a platform dedicated to nurturing the next generation of China-competent Canadian professionals.
He holds a Master’s degree in Global Diplomacy from SOAS University of London and a Master of Applied Science from the University of Toronto. Earlier in his career, he worked in strategy and management roles in the financial services and real estate sectors and has served on the boards of several Canadian non-profits and NGOs, including the Toronto branch of the Canadian International Council.

Jeff ZhangRegional Director, Central Canada (ON, QC, MB) Canada China Business Council

Biography
Jeff has over 20 years of international experience in private, public and non-profit organizations in a variety of sectors including E-commerce, oil and gas, retail, commercial real estate, education and financial services. Prior to joining CCBC, Jeff worked in establishment and operation management at a Sino-Foreign joint venture company and in strategic partnership management at a Fortune 500 multinational company. He also led and assisted a number of Canadian companies and educational institutions into China where he was responsible for strategic partnerships and branding establishment.
Jeff has an MBA in marketing and international business from Concordia University in Montreal and is fluent in Mandarin and English. He has also been a guest speaker at professional business associations in China and Canada.

Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

12th Transpacific Entrepreneurial Conference
2026-01-28 09:00 - 20:00 (Asia/Hong_Kong) | Hong Kong
12th Transpacific Entrepreneurial Conference
TransPacific Economic Diversification: New Investment Opportunities
The Annual Transpacific Entrepreneurial Conference is a flagship initiative of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong (CanChamHK), bringing together business leaders and entrepreneurs from across Asia and Canada to explore emerging investment and trade opportunities.
Launched in 2014, the Conference leverages Hong Kong’s position as a leading international business and financial centre to serve as a platform for Canadian companies, start-ups, and industry leaders seeking growth across the Asia-Pacific region. The overarching objective is to advance trade and investment flows between Asia and Canada through dialogue, partnership, and practical insights.
Now entering its 12th year, the 2026 Conference marks a significant milestone, signalling the start of a new decade of collaboration between Canada and regional economies. The event will be hosted by CanChamHK and jointly presented with the Hong Kong Canada Business Association (HKCBA), and delivered in a hybrid format, connecting participants across Hong Kong, Asia, and Canada.
Please note: Virtual participation is open to all attendees. In-person attendance is by invitation only and reserved for senior leaders at the Vice President level or above, subject to registration approval.
ContactFor inquiries, please contact:Email: events@cancham.orgTel: +852 2110 8701WhatsApp: +852 6324 8707

[SOLD OUT] Lunar New Year Reception: Year of the Horse & Looking Ahead in Canada–China Relations
2026-02-04 16:30 - 19:30 (America/Vancouver) | The Vancouver Club, Grand Ballroom, The Vancouver Club, 915 West Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 1C6, Canada
As we welcome the Year of the Horse, join the Canada China Business Council (CCBC) for a Lunar New Year Networking Reception offering timely insights into the outlook for Canada–China relations.
This reception will bring together business leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to exchange perspectives on the evolving bilateral relationship and what the year ahead may hold for trade, investment, and commercial engagement. Against a backdrop of global economic uncertainty and shifting market dynamics, the discussion will highlight why China remains an important market for Canadian companies seeking diversification and long-term growth.
Participants will gain insights into key trends shaping Canada–China business relations in the year ahead, while connecting with peers, strengthening professional relationships, and expanding networks in a festive Lunar New Year setting.
Join us to start the year with informed perspectives, meaningful dialogue, and valuable connections.
Date: February 4th, 2026
Time: 4:30 – 7:30 PM PST
Location: Grand Ballroom, The Vancouver Club, 915 West Hastings Street, Vancouver BC V6C 1C6, Canada
Dress code: Business Attire

Tickets:
CCBC Members: $25 + tax
Non-CCBC Members: $100 + tax

Refund and Cancellation Policy:Payment is non-refundable unless the Canada China Business Council cancels the event.

Agenda:
4:30 PM PST – Registration
5:00 PM PST – Event Starts
6:15 PM PST – Networking

Thank you to our sponsors:

Speakers:

Zeng ZhiActing Consul GeneralChinese Consulate General in Vancouver

Biography
Mr. ZENG Zhi, the Acting Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Vancouver.
Mr. ZENG Zhi has rich diplomatic work experience, and has previously worked in the Protocol Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China and has been engaged in protocol affairs for many years. He has also worked in Chinese diplomatic missions abroad, specifically Cyprus and Thailand.

Vice-Chair of CCBC

The Honourable Martin Cauchon, P.C., LL.M., ICD.D, Ad. E.CounselPrelia Canada

Biography
Martin Cauchon has had a distinguished career. First elected as a Member of Parliament in October 1993, he has held many positions in the Government of Canada. He has served as Secretary of State (Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec), Minister of National Revenue, and Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. In 2013, he was an official candidate in the leadership race of the Liberal Party of Canada. From 2015 to 2019, he was also a shareholder and Executive Chairman of Groupe Capitales Médias, which gave him a better understanding of the challenges facing the print media in a digital world.

Mr. Cauchon’s unparalleled experience in government and the private sector has given him a deep understanding of a wide range of issues. As counsel at DS Lawyers Canada, he advises companies on the various issues facing the knowledge economy and the globalization of markets, taking into account geopolitical factors. Mr. Cauchon also facilitates the creation of partnerships at the provincial, national, and international levels.

Having established relationships with several counterparts in China, Martin Cauchon has acquired a good knowledge of that market, which allows him to intervene in projects that are related to the Canada-China relationship.

After obtaining a law degree from the University of Ottawa, Mr. Cauchon became a member of the Quebec Bar in 1985 and completed a master degree in International Business Law in 1991, at the University of Exeter, in England. He was the 2004 recipient of the Equality Forum’s International Role Model Award. In 2015, he received the honorary distinction of “Advocatus emeritus” and “Le Mérite” from the Quebec Bar. He is also Vice Chair, Board of Directors of the Canada China Business Council and Chair of its Quebec Chapter Advisory Council. He also serves on the board of directors of several companies.

Vice-Chair of CCBC

David T. Fung, B.Eng., M. Eng., Ph.D., PEng (BC), FEC, C. Dir., LL.D. (Hon.), D.Sc. (Hon.)CEOACDEG International Inc.

Biography
Dr. Fung is the co-founder, Board Chair and CEO of the ACDEG Group of companies, a global technology integrator. Over the past 35 years, he has founded, co-founded or restructured over 25 business ventures/corporations in agri-food, manufacturing, wholesale distribution and clean technologies in North America, Europe and Asia.
Dr. Fung is also the Founding Scientist of EM Fluids Inc. of Ottawa (ON) with water remediation projects on six continents. He is the co-inventor of 46 issued or allowed patents with more than 30 patent applications pending on a variety of chemical technologies including a highly disruptive discovery on the disproportionate responses of the physicochemical properties of liquids to minute external stimuli.
Besides the ACDEG Group of companies, his board experience includes Chair of the Chemical Institute of Canada, Co-chair of the Members of the Canada Foundation for Innovation, National Board Chair of Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters Association, Chair of China Committee of International Science & Technology Partnership Canada, Vice-chair of the national boards of Canada China Business Council, the Canadian Standards Association Group and the Management Board of National Zero Waste Council of Canada. He was the Chancellor and a member of the Board of Governors and the Senate of Capilano University of British Columbia, the President of the Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering, a member of the Steering Committee of the Metro Vancouver Regional Prosperity Initiative, a Senior Fellow of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada and a member of the Advisory Board of the McGill School of Religious Studies.
He was awarded the Canadian Asian of the Year (Business and Public Service), 2009 by Asia Network Canada, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, 2012 by the Governor General of Canada, the honorary Doctor of Law degree by Capilano University (BC) in 2014, the honorary Doctor of Science degree by Concordia University (Quebec) in 2020, the Award of Merit by the McGill Alumni Association in 2022 and Fellow of Engineers Canada in 2024.

Jing LIProfessor, International BusinessDirector, Jack Austin Centre for Asia Pacific Business StudiesBeedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University

Biography
Jing LI (PhD, Indiana University) is a Professor of International Business at the Beedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University, where she serves as the director of the Jack Austin Centre for Asia Pacific Business Studies. Her research focuses on international investment strategies of firms, doing business in emerging markets, state-owned enterprises, and the intersection of geopolitics, public policies, and firm strategies. She has published over forty articles in leading management and international business journals. She is equally passionate about teaching and engaging in activities that promote dialogue and collaboration among researchers, business leaders, and policymakers.

Board Director of CCBC

Stephen WortleyPartnerDLA Piper (Canada) and DLA Piper (US)

Biography
Stephen Wortley is a leading capital markets and mergers and acquisitions lawyer. He is highly regarded for his deep knowledge of the Chinese, Hong Kong and East Asian markets. With extensive expertise in domestic and international securities and corporate matters, Mr. Wortley advises state-owned enterprises and a variety of small and medium-sized businesses.
Assisting startups and established companies in the technology, financial services, advanced materials, manufacturing and energy and mining industries, Mr. Wortley provides counsel on local, national and international prospectus offerings, as well as numerous listings on the TSX, TSX Venture Exchange and the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong. He also advises on Chinese outbound M&A transactions into the Americas, ASEAN and Europe.
Mr. Wortley has been recognized for his work in M&A by Chambers Global and The Legal Media Group – Guide to Leading Practitioners: China. He speaks frequently on the topic of Hong Kong Stock Exchange listings by Canadian companies, and on alternative investment structures.
Mr. Wortley clerked for The Honourable Mr. Justice Lambert of the British Columbia Court of Appeal.

Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

[SOLD OUT] Building Legacy Institutions: Culture, Capital, and the Future of Chinese Canadian Belonging
2026-02-06 09:30 - 11:00 (America/Toronto) | ICBC (Canada) Head Office, Unit 3710, 333 Bay Street, Toronto, ON, M5H 2R2, Canada
The Canada China Business Council and the Chinese Canadian Museum are pleased to present the Building Legacy Institutions: Culture, Capital, and the Future of Chinese Canadian Belonging event, which explores why cultural institutions matter in shaping Canada’s future. Featuring Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee, CEO of Chinese Canadian Museum and Grace Wong, Board Chair of Chinese Canadian Museum, this talk highlights the Chinese Canadian Museum as Canada’s first national museum dedicated to Chinese Canadian history—rooted in redress, resilience, and community leadership.
Located in Vancouver’s historic Wing Sang Building, the museum tells the story of over 230 years of Chinese presence in Canada, from early migration to today’s contributions in business, science, sport, and culture. Learn about its national impact, including over 60,000 visitors in its first two years, a Governor General’s History Award for Excellence in Museums, and touring exhibitions such as The Paper Trail, Odysseys & Migration, and A Seat at the Table.
The presentation also examines the connection between business and culture, showing how trust, history, and cultural literacy shape economic relationships. It will highlight the Museum’s priorities—national partnerships, youth and education, diaspora exchange, and long-term sustainability—and invite the business community to engage through events, leadership programs, delegations, and philanthropic partnership.
Date: February 6, 2026
Time: 9:30 – 11:00 AM EST
Location: Unit 3710, 333 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5H 2R2
Dress Code: Business Formal

Tickets:
Free for CCBC Members-only. Space is limited.

Special thanks to:

Venue Host

Speakers:

Grace WongBoard ChairChinese Canadian Museum

Biography
Grace Wong is currently serving as the Chair of the Chinese Canadian Museum, the first such museum in Canada. She served on the Working Group to help establish the museum and then became the inaugural chair in March 2020.

Grace Wong’s professional experience spans over three decades at the University of British Columbia, serving in roles such as Senior Advisor International in the Office of Provost & Vice President Academic, and Assistant Dean in the Sauder School of Business. She worked extensively on developing international partnerships and initiating new programs. In 2018, she received the UBC President’s Staff Award for Creativity and Innovation. Grace retired from UBC in January 2020.

Grace Wong has been active in the community for many years. She served as public representative on the board of the Chartered Professional Accountants of BC and is currently on the board of the CPA Education Foundation. Past roles include Chair of SUCCESS, member of Mobility Pricing Independent Commission, BC Expert Panel on Business Taxation, BC Immigration Task Force, BC Premier’s Asia Pacific Trade Council, and others. Grace has been recognized with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, the BC Community Achievement Award and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

Grace has a MBA and B.Ed(Sec) from UBC. She was born in Vancouver and grew up in the Chinatown area. She is married with three grown daughters.

Dr. Melissa Karmen LeeCEOChinese Canadian Museum

Biography
Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee (Ph.D) 李林嘉敏 is an arts and culture leader with research interests in public art and social practice.
She is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the Chinese Canadian Museum, which was successfully opened on July 1st 2023, showcasing 3 inaugural exhibitions in a 27,000 square foot space in the heart of Chinatown. Since it’s opening, the museum has presented six featured exhibitions at its main location and its two temporary sites in Vancouver and Victoria and offered numerous in-person and online programs to communities across Canada.
From 2019-2022, she was the Director of Education and Public Programs at the Vancouver Art Gallery. In this position, she oversaw public programs designed for diverse audiences of all ages to enhance the understanding of the Gallery’s over 12,000-piece art collection and of travelling contemporary and modern exhibitions.
From 2016-2019 she was on the founding team to open Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Art, Hong Kong—a UNESCO heritage site—serving as the Education and Public Programs Curator and led over 200 programs with a robust team of full-time staff and part-time docents. In 2016, she was the Scholar in Residence at the David Lam Centre, Simon Fraser University. From 2008-2015, she was on faculty as Senior Lecturer at the English Department of Chinese University of Hong Kong.
She was born on xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwu7mesh (Squamish), and səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) territories in Vancouver, Canada. She holds degrees from McGill, Canterbury and Lancaster Universities.

Bijan AhmadiExecutive Director & COOCanada China Business Council

Biography
Bijan Ahmadi is the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Canada China Business Council (CCBC), where he leads the Council’s strategic direction, operations, and programming across all seven chapters in Canada and China. In this capacity, he also serves on CCBC’s Board of Directors and its Executive Committee.
As a recognized voice in Canada–China relations, Bijan works closely with senior executives, policymakers, and institutional partners to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties, advance member services, and position Canadian companies for success in the Chinese market. His work focuses on translating policy and regulatory developments into practical insights for business leaders and supporting high-level commercial engagement between the two countries.
Prior to joining CCBC, Bijan co-founded and served as Executive Director of the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy (IPD) from 2018 to 2024, where he helped build the organization into a respected binational foreign policy think tank operating in Canada and the United States. During this period, he launched IPD’s Asia research program and its annual flagship conference, the Indo-Pacific Strategy Forum (IPSF) in Ottawa, now widely regarded as Canada’s leading platform for policy and economic dialogue on the Asia-Pacific region. He was also co-editor of Canada–China Brief, an online policy publication covering political and economic developments in the bilateral relationship.
Throughout his work on China, Bijan has advised multinational corporations and small and medium-sized enterprises on navigating Canada–China trade, regulatory, and policy environments. He has led Track 2 and Track 1.5 dialogue initiatives in partnership with Chinese, Canadian and American institutions and he regularly delivers lectures and professional training on Canada–China economic relations for public and private sector audiences.
Bijan also serves on the Advisory Board of the Canada China Forum, a platform dedicated to nurturing the next generation of China-competent Canadian professionals.
He holds a Master’s degree in Global Diplomacy from SOAS University of London and a Master of Applied Science from the University of Toronto. Earlier in his career, he worked in strategy and management roles in the financial services and real estate sectors and has served on the boards of several Canadian non-profits and NGOs, including the Toronto branch of the Canadian International Council.

Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

Reimagining Engagement with China
2026-02-12 14:00 - 17:00 (America/Toronto) | Keele Campus, York University, 198 York Blvd, North York, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
25th Anniversary Forum: Reimagining Engagement with China
To mark its 25th anniversary, the Asian Business and Management Program (ABMP) at York University is convening a timely forum focused on reimagining Canada’s engagement with China amid evolving global dynamics.
The forum will bring together leaders from academia, business, education, and policy to reflect on the evolution of Canada–China relations and to explore future pathways for collaboration. Discussions will consider emerging challenges, opportunities, and new models of engagement in a rapidly changing international environment.
For more than two decades, ABMP has played a vital role in fostering dialogue, research, and engagement between Canada and Asia, with a particular focus on China. This anniversary event celebrates the program’s legacy while looking ahead to constructive and sustainable approaches for future cooperation.

Featured Speakers
Douglas Proctor
Assistant Vice-President, Global Engagement & Partnerships, York University
Wang Rui
Distinguished Scientist and Academic Leader; Former Dean, Faculty of Science, York University
Julia G. Bentley
Former Ambassador; Distinguished Fellow, Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada;
Research Associate, York Centre for Asian Research
Bijan Ahmadi
Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, Canada China Business Council

Moderator
Lorna Wright
Associate Professor Emerita, Schulich School of Business, York University

Event Details
Date: Thursday, February 12, 2026Time: 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.Location: Keele Campus, York University

Agenda
2:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Registration
2:30 – 3:00 p.m. | Welcoming Remarks
3:00 – 4:00 p.m. | Panel Discussion: Reimagining Engagement with China
4:00 – 5:00 p.m. | Reception & Refreshments

Register Now

[SOLD OUT] Lunar New Year Reception: A New Chapter in Canada–China Relations
2026-02-18 16:30 - 19:30 (America/Toronto) | Scotia Wealth Management, 1002 Sherbrooke St W, 8th Floor, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 3L6, Canada
As we welcome the Year of the Horse, join CCBC for a Lunar New Year Networking Reception focused on looking ahead in Canada–China relations. This timely event will bring together business leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders to reflect on the evolving bilateral relationship and explore what the year ahead may hold for trade, investment, and commercial engagement, following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent visit to China.
Consul General DAI Yuming will deliver special remarks, followed by insights from members of CCBC’s Board of Directors and the business community, who will share observations from the recent delegation to China alongside Prime Minister Mark Carney and their perspectives on the outlook for Canada–China relations in the year ahead.
Against a backdrop of global economic uncertainty and shifting market dynamics, the reception will highlight why China remains an important market for Canadian companies seeking diversification and long-term growth. Attendees will gain insights into key trends and sectors shaping Canada–China business relations in the year ahead, while enjoying the opportunity to reconnect with peers, strengthen existing partnerships, and build new professional networks in a festive Lunar New Year setting.
Join CCBC to welcome the Year of the Horse with an evening of timely insights and high-level networking focused on the outlook for Canada–China relations and commercial engagement in the year ahead.
Date: February 18th, 2026
Time: 4:30 – 7:30 PM EST
Location: 1002 Sherbrooke St W, 8th Floor, Montreal, Quebec H3A 3L6 (Please use the entrance on Metcalfe Street)
Dress code: Business Attire

Tickets:
CCBC Members: $25 + tax
Non-CCBC Members: $100 + tax

Refund and Cancellation Policy:
Payment is non-refundable unless the Canada China Business Council cancels the event.

Agenda:
4:30 PM EST – Registration
5:00 PM EST – Event Starts
6:15 PM EST – Networking

Thank you to our sponsors:

Speakers:

DAI Yuming
Consul General
Chinese Consulate General in Montreal

Biography
Mr. DAI Yuming has assumed the position of the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Montreal since December 2022. Since 1992, he worked at different positions in Department of African Affairs, Department of Personnel and Department of Policy Planning of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, and served several terms at the Chinese Embassies in Liberia, the United States, Sierra Leone, Namibia, and Israel. He was also Deputy Mayor of Sanya City, Hainan Province, from 2016 to 2019.

Vice-Chair of CCBC

The Honourable Martin Cauchon, P.C., LL.M., ICD.D, Ad. E.
Counsel
Prelia

Biography
Martin Cauchon has had a distinguished career. First elected as a Member of Parliament in October 1993, he has held many positions in the Government of Canada. He has served as Secretary of State (Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec), Minister of National Revenue, and Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. In 2013, he was an official candidate in the leadership race of the Liberal Party of Canada. From 2015 to 2019, he was also a shareholder and Executive Chairman of Groupe Capitales Médias, which gave him a better understanding of the challenges facing the print media in a digital world.

Mr. Cauchon’s unparalleled experience in government and the private sector has given him a deep understanding of a wide range of issues. As counsel at DS Lawyers Canada, he advises companies on the various issues facing the knowledge economy and the globalization of markets, taking into account geopolitical factors. Mr. Cauchon also facilitates the creation of partnerships at the provincial, national, and international levels.

Having established relationships with several counterparts in China, Martin Cauchon has acquired a good knowledge of that market, which allows him to intervene in projects that are related to the Canada-China relationship.

After obtaining a law degree from the University of Ottawa, Mr. Cauchon became a member of the Quebec Bar in 1985 and completed a master degree in International Business Law in 1991, at the University of Exeter, in England. He was the 2004 recipient of the Equality Forum’s International Role Model Award. In 2015, he received the honorary distinction of “Advocatus emeritus” and “Le Mérite” from the Quebec Bar. He is also Vice Chair, Board of Directors of the Canada China Business Council and Chair of its Quebec Chapter Advisory Council. He also serves on the board of directors of several companies.

Angela D’AngeloVice-President, Business Development and Growth, QuebecScotia Wealth Management

Biography
Ms. D’Angelo has over 33 years of experience in the financial services industry, specifically in Wealth Management where she has held numerous roles ranging from sales, management, and executive leadership.
In 2024 she joined Scotia Wealth Management as Regional VP – Business Development and is responsible for the growth Strategy for Québec to relaunch the Scotia McLeod offer bringing all business lines together to provide the very best advice to clients.
Previously, Training and Client Experience at National Bank Financial Wealth Management since 2009, her mandate included cross-Canadian learning and client experience strategies and the professional development of more than 1,800 Wealth Management employees.
A graduate of Concordia University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, she is known for her unique views on leadership. A dynamic and resilient woman of integrity, she succeeds in distinguishing herself in an everchanging Wealth Management industry by creating an experiential work environment that combines both regulatory and client advice practices. As a leader, her approach to achieving the organization’s objectives is to help employees develop their talent, potential and individual strengths by fostering a work environment that puts both employees and clients first. She is a great ambassador for the influence of both professional women and women investors in her financial community.
In addition to her professional role, Ms. D’Angelo is very involved in her community, and became the first female President of the Donald Berman Maimonides Geriatric Center Foundation Board. In 2015, she joined the Board of Directors of the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation, where she served as President from 2017 to 2019. And until recently, she joined the board of Flexifonds (FTQ – Fonds des travailleurs du Québec) – a newly created fund that supports the local economy and Québec society
She is also very active in the promotion of women’s leadership and in the development of other talented businesswomen, notably as a member, advisor and speaker with the Association des femmes d’affaires du Québec (AFFQ). In 2021, she was awarded the Inspiration Andrée Corriveau Award – the highest distinction of this association awarded to a woman in the Québec society who contributed to the advancement of women in finance. In 2018 a program she developed received the AFFQ Business Initiative Award for Making a Difference, an innovative program which aimed to promote the Wealth Advisor career among next generation women.
A true agent of change and modernization of business policies, Ms. D’Angelo is the instigator of several successful campaigns, events, and initiatives for the advancement of women in Wealth Management.

Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

Celebrating the Year of the Horse: The Montreal Toundra Basketball Game
2026-03-06 | Centre Pierre-Charbonneau, 3000, rue Viau, Montréal, Quebec, H1V 3J3, Canada
The Montreal Toundra Basketball Team cordially invites you to a special evening celebrating the Lunar New Year through sport and highlighting the vitality of Montréal’s Chinese community. The Canada China Business Council (CCBC) is pleased to serve as a supporting organization.
This celebration will bring together members of the Chinese community and the broader public for an evening that showcases athletic excellence, cultural pride, and meaningful people-to-people connections in recognition of the Year of the Horse.
Date: Friday, March 6, 2026
Admission Time: 6:00 PM EDT
Location: Centre Pierre-Charbonneau, 3000, rue Viau (Parc olympique), Montréal, QC H1V 3J3

Tickets:
Free

Get Tickets

Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.

Exclusive Briefing and Networking Reception: CCBC's Latest Canada-China Business Survey
2026-03-12 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Toronto) | RBC South Tower – 40th floor Executive Meeting Place, 200 Bay Street, South Tower- 40th floor, Toronto, ON, M5V 3K7, Canada
Join us on March 12, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. EDT, for an exclusive briefing on the latest Canada–China Business Survey, the Canada China Business Council’s biennial research initiative examining the performance, challenges, and outlook of companies engaged in bilateral trade and investment and education between Canada and China, conducted in late 2025.
The survey was conducted in partnership with the Rotman Institute for International Business and offers an evidence-based snapshot of a rapidly evolving commercial landscape. Since the previous survey in 2023, the global operating environment has grown increasingly complex, with rising protectionism, supply chain diversification, and geopolitical uncertainty requiring greater pragmatism from businesses and political leaders alike. At the same time, Canada–China relations have entered a new chapter, marked by renewed high-level engagement and a constructive emphasis on stabilizing and advancing the bilateral commercial relationship.
The latest survey findings reflect the perspectives of Canadian and Chinese companies active in bilateral business and highlight clear signals regarding strategic priorities, expansion plans, branding advantages, and overall business sentiment. The results point to sustained commercial interest and pragmatic, forward-looking engagement, even amid global uncertainty.
This concise, data-driven event will provide early access to key insights on market conditions, regulatory developments, investment trends, commercial challenges, and emerging opportunities shaping the Canada–China business environment. Participants will gain practical intelligence to inform strategy, strengthen risk management, and support long-term positioning in a complex and evolving market.
Date: March 12, 2026
Time: 5:00 – 8:00 PM EDT
Location: Royal Bank of Canada, 200 Bay Street, South Tower- 40th floor Executive Meeting Place, Toronto
Dress Code: Business Formal

Tickets:
Members: $25 (Tax included)
Non-Members: $120 (Tax included)

Purchase Tickets

Refund and Cancellation Policy:Payment is non-refundable unless the Canada China Business Council cancels the event.

Important Notes:
Registration under the Member rate is strictly reserved for companies that are current Members in Good Standing. Registrations submitted under the Member category by non-members or members not in good standing will be declined or adjusted to the applicable Non-Member rate.
Disclaimer: Food and beverages, including alcohol, will be served at this event. Guests are solely responsible for their own food and beverage choices.

Agenda:
5:00 PM EDT – Registration
5:30 PM EDT – Presentation of the Survey Findings, Panel Discussion and Q&A
6:30 PM EDT – Cocktail Reception

Thank you to our sponsors:

Speakers:

Bijan AhmadiExecutive Director & COOCanada China Business Council

Biography
Bijan Ahmadi is the Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Canada China Business Council (CCBC), where he leads the Council’s strategic direction, operations, and programming across all seven chapters in Canada and China. In this capacity, he also serves on CCBC’s Board of Directors and its Executive Committee.
As a recognized voice in Canada–China relations, Bijan works closely with senior executives, policymakers, and institutional partners to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties, advance member services, and position Canadian companies for success in the Chinese market. His work focuses on translating policy and regulatory developments into practical insights for business leaders and supporting high-level commercial engagement between the two countries.
Prior to joining CCBC, Bijan co-founded and served as Executive Director of the Institute for Peace & Diplomacy (IPD) from 2018 to 2024, where he helped build the organization into a respected binational foreign policy think tank operating in Canada and the United States. During this period, he launched IPD’s Asia research program and its annual flagship conference, the Indo-Pacific Strategy Forum (IPSF) in Ottawa, now widely regarded as Canada’s leading platform for policy and economic dialogue on the Asia-Pacific region. He was also co-editor of Canada–China Brief, an online policy publication covering political and economic developments in the bilateral relationship.
Throughout his work on China, Bijan has advised multinational corporations and small and medium-sized enterprises on navigating Canada–China trade, regulatory, and policy environments. He has led Track 2 and Track 1.5 dialogue initiatives in partnership with Chinese, Canadian and American institutions and he regularly delivers lectures and professional training on Canada–China economic relations for public and private sector audiences.
Bijan also serves on the Advisory Board of the Canada China Forum, a platform dedicated to nurturing the next generation of China-competent Canadian professionals.
He holds a Master’s degree in Global Diplomacy from SOAS University of London and a Master of Applied Science from the University of Toronto. Earlier in his career, he worked in strategy and management roles in the financial services and real estate sectors and has served on the boards of several Canadian non-profits and NGOs, including the Toronto branch of the Canadian International Council.

Jessica ChesterCo-Founder and CEOLaneway Distillers

Biography
Jessica Chester is the Co-Founder and CEO of Laneway Distillers, a Canadian premium spirits brand known for crafting elegant, small-batch gins and vodka that celebrate the character of Canadian botanicals. Founded in 2018, Laneway Distillers has grown under her leadership into an internationally recognized brand with a presence in China, where the company is recognized as a China SME partner.

With a background in design and brand development, Jessica brings a creative and thoughtful approach to the world of spirits, blending craftsmanship, storytelling, and modern luxury. She is passionate about building respected Canadian spirits while championing women-founded entrepreneurship within the industry.

Walid HejaziProfessor, Economic Analysis and PolicyAcademic Director, Executive ProgramsRotman School of Management, University of Toronto

Biography
Walid Hejazi is a Professor of Economic Analysis and Policy at the Rotman School of Management, Fellow of the Michael Lee-Chin Family Institute for Corporate Citizenship, and member of the Board of Directors of the David & Sharon Johnston Centre for Corporate Governance Innovation. His research focuses on the development of strategies which enhance the ability of companies to compete in domestic and global marketplaces. He has worked closely with many companies to develop and implement innovative strategies, with a particular focus on the role of leaders in preparing those companies to lead strategic change. He is currently working on a book that analyzes strategies that can mobilize global pools of capital into the development of sustainable infrastructure projects in the developing world. He has also worked extensively with Canadian and foreign governments on the development of policies around foreign investment and international trade and has testified extensively before parliamentary and senate committees. He teaches in Rotman’s MBA, EMBA and custom executive programs, and has delivered lectures in over 30 countries, and is a frequent commentator in the media.

Hugo LorensonRegional Vice President, Commercial Financial Services – GTRRoyal Bank of Canada

Biography
Hugo is currently Regional Vice President, Diversified Banking, Commercial Financial Services, with over 15 years of experience at RBC.
Hugo’s breadth of experience provides him with a deep understanding of Commercial Banking. He began his career as a Senior Relationship Manager in the GTA, progressing through various senior leadership positions, including roles in Credit Adjudication and Commercial Advisory Groups. Additionally, he managed Operations Centres across the Americas and provided oversight of the Caribbean Cards Operations Group. Hugo has led high-performing teams in the Retail, Franchising, and Business Professional Services industries as Vice President, Commercial, in the GTA. Prior to his current position, Hugo was one of the original RBC leaders to join the Group Risk Management National Internship Program.
Hugo was a practicing lawyer in Toronto before starting his career at RBC.
Hugo holds a Law Degree from Osgoode Hall Law School, an MBA from the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto, and an undergraduate degree from Acadia University. He is an active volunteer with RBC’s Beacon program and the Rotman School of Management, and also serves as a York Region youth basketball coach.

James RauschManaging Director and Head, Global Transaction BankingRBC Capital Markets

Biography
James Rausch is Global Head of Banks, Brokers & Exchanges at RBC Investor & Treasury Services and is also a member of the Investor & Treasury Services Operating Committee. He is based in Toronto.

As Global Head of Banks, Brokers & Exchanges, James has end-to-end responsibility for the sales, service and product delivery of Canadian dollar services to our financial institution partners globally. James also leads our Graduate Rotational Program in Canada, and is heavily involved in mentoring new and high potential employees.

James joined RBC in 2014 and is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in financial markets, including 12 years at Powerex and previously at Infoware Software, the Toronto Stock Exchange and Toronto Dominion Bank. His broad business experience includes transaction banking, client coverage, risk management, commodities trading and corporate finance.

James became a CFA charterholder in 1999 and holds an MBA from the Joseph L. Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Science from the same institution. He recently completed a certificate in the Foundations of Applied Mindfulness Meditation, is a certified facilitator of the Mindfulness Without Borders program and is a Professional Coach pursuing his Associate Certified Coach (ACC) accreditation. James is a diversity advocate, leading the diversity leadership council for the division in Canada as well as the executive sponsor for the next-gen stream. As a visible LGBTQ+ leader, James recently delivered the lunch keynote at the Out on Bay Street conference.

James is the past divisional co-chair of the RBC United Way Giving Campaign and participates as a board member on the Canada China Business Council (CCBC) and DAREarts. He was a past board member of Bankers Association for Finance and Trade (BAFT) and co-chaired the North American Council.

John Qiang XUChief RepresentativeCCPIT/CCOIC Representative Office in Canada

Biography
John Xu was appointed the Chief Representative of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) / China Chamber of International Commerce (CCOIC), Representative Office in Canada, in 2019. In this role, he is responsible to facilitate the business exchanges and cooperation between China and Canada, through partnering with business associations, identifying business partners, participating trade events, trade missions, trade disputes settlement, etc.
Before joining CCPIT Representative Office in Canada, John was the Vice President of China International Exhibition Center Group Ltd., where he was responsible to manage exhibition venues and organize trade fairs.
John has over 20 years of experience in trade promotion between China and the rest of the world. His expertise includes arranging business matchmaking meetings and receiving international trade delegations, among other critical activities that advance bilateral trade.

Jeff ZhangSenior Regional Director, Central Canada (ON, MB) Canada China Business Council

Biography
Jeff has over 20 years of international experience in private, public and non-profit organizations in a variety of sectors including E-commerce, oil and gas, retail, commercial real estate, education and financial services. Prior to joining CCBC, Jeff worked in establishment and operation management at a Sino-Foreign joint venture company and in strategic partnership management at a Fortune 500 multinational company. He also led and assisted a number of Canadian companies and educational institutions into China where he was responsible for strategic partnerships and branding establishment.
Jeff has an MBA in marketing and international business from Concordia University in Montreal and is fluent in Mandarin and English. He has also been a guest speaker at professional business associations in China and Canada.

Photography/Filming: By taking part in this event, you grant the Canada China Business Council full rights to use any images resulting from photography/video filming.
