Only On The Walters Post
We’ve all heard folks talk about boycotting all kinds of different things. I’ve also seen people get riled up over American policies or political blunders. But we hardly ever talk about the real giant in the room, China, and just how deep our wallets are tied to theirs.
So let’s lay it out plain: here’s what China sells to Canada, and how much money we send their way for it.
Top Imports From China to Canada (2023)
- Electronics (phones, TVs, tablets, etc.): $7.96 billion
- Machinery (including computers): $7.03 billion
- Vehicles (excluding trains): $3.65 billion
- Furniture & Lighting: $3.11 billion
- Plastics & Plastic Items: $2.44 billion
- Steel & Iron Articles: $2.27 billion
- Toys, Games, and Sports Gear: $1.74 billion
- Knit Clothing (socks, underwear, etc.): $1.35 billion
- Woven Apparel (jackets, pants, etc.): $1.04 billion
- Aluminum Products: $1.03 billion
Notable Individual Items
- Mobile Phones: $9.22 billion
- Computers & Laptops: $6.56 billion
- Passenger Vehicles: $2.64 billion
- Vehicle Parts: $2.39 billion
- Heaters & HVAC Units: $1.84 billion
The Everyday and Often Ignored
These smaller items are harder to track individually in dollar terms, but together they form a mountain: And I am sure there are many more.
- Hair combs, elastics, brushes
- Pens, crayons, pencils, erasers
- Buttons, zippers, sewing kits
- Umbrellas, plastic tarps, rain gear
- Socks, scarves, gloves, hats
- Kitchen gadgets, utensils, containers
- Tools, flashlights, batteries
- Toys in kids’ meals, party decorations
- Lighters, nail clippers, razors
- Eyeglasses, sunglasses, costume jewelry
- Mops, sponges, cleaning cloths
- Fake flowers, picture frames, wall art
Total Spent (2024): $49.2 Billion
That’s what we gave them in one year, which keeps our local makers, tool shops, and craftsmen out of business. And there’s been a lot more since.
Looking at that, it just goes to show ya, what could be made right here at home in Canada, if we get back to being self-reliant. Just imagine what that money we give to China could do for us right here at home. Will it happen? Well it would, and can if our Powers That Be, would open their eyes.
Until the next time, keep your minds open and your stories alive. GW