The latest trade war between the United States and Canada marks a turning point with key lessons for China and other major US trading partners as well as risks, say analysts and former trade officials, as US President Donald Trump continues to put his blunt stamp on global institutions.<\/p>\n
The breakdown in ties between Washington and Ottawa, one of the largest trade relationships in the world, opens one more front in the president\u2019s disruptive path that could fuel a backlash and further distrust to Beijing\u2019s benefit.<\/p>\n
\u201cShould Canada succeed in weathering the storm of US retaliation while standing up for its national interests, others may follow a similar \u2018get tough\u2019 approach,\u201d said Wendy Cutler, senior vice-president with the Asia Society Policy Institute.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere is no doubt that a growing number of partners are relating to Canada\u2019s growing frustration with Washington, overall, and the heavy-handedness it brings to the negotiating table.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cBeijing must be enjoying watching the volley of words and actions between Washington and Ottawa,\u201d added Cutler, a former senior negotiator at the Office of the US Trade Representative.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt would not be surprising if Beijing steps up its efforts to woo Ottawa into its court.\u201d<\/p>\n