Canada–Germany: Rethinking the Economic Partnership10 Essential Questions for the Next 50 Years

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​As global economic landscapes shift, Canada and Germany — two advanced, innovation-driven economies — must identify areas where they can grow together. These questions aim to spark long-term economic dialogue and partnership.

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What should we be asking today to shape a stronger transatlantic economy tomorrow?

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- How can we reduce trade frictions between Canada and Germany to make imports and exports more seamless for SMEs and large companies alike?
           What tools, agreements, or processes are missing today?

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What concrete steps can we take to streamline customs, logistics, and cross-border compliance between our two economies?
          Could we pilot a "fast-track" program for certain sectors?

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- How do we build real-time communication channels between our trade agencies, embassies, and business support organizations?
          Could we co-develop a Canada–Germany trade coordination platform?

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- What barriers—cultural, linguistic, bureaucratic—still stand in the way of fluid B2B interaction?
          How might we train a new generation of bilingual trade liaisons?

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- How can both countries better promote their strengths and opportunities to one another?
          Should we co-invest in targeted media campaigns or sector-specific roadshows?

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- What types of business delegations or trade missions should be prioritized to generate results, not just visibility?
          Could we align our respective innovation agendas more tightly?

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- How can we use existing diaspora, chambers of commerce, and bilateral institutions to deepen commercial ties?
          Are they sufficiently funded and connected?

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- What role can universities and research centers play in building long-term commercial trust and talent mobility?
          Could applied R&D partnerships become pipelines for exportable solutions?

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- What would a Canada–Germany “business accelerator corridor” look like?
          Could companies soft-land in each other’s markets with fewer barriers?

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- What about in 50 years?
           What legacy do we want Canada and Germany to leave — as partners in shaping the future?