There has been a lot of conversation lately about global markets, and honestly, things rarely feel as simple as the headlines make them sound. But here’s what I’m seeing from Manitoba businesses: China is still very much on the radar. And with thoughtful planning and smart engagement, it’s a market where real opportunities can still open up.
Recent insight from the KPMG’s 2025 MNC China Outlook Survey, one of the most comprehensive looks at how multinationals are navigating this market, makes this point clear. Despite the uncertainty, most multinational companies aren’t packing up and leaving China. Actually, 94% of the companies they surveyed are still investing there, and about three‑quarters plan to keep going or even put in more.
These companies aren’t being unrealistic. They’re just adjusting how they operate. They’re focusing more on profitability than fast growth, tightening up their local supply chains, and putting extra energy into R&D.
The Market Is Maturing and that Creates Openings
China’s economy is transitioning from a high-growth developing market to a more mature one. That shift changes the game. What’s replacing it is a market that rewards quality, trust, and specialisation, which I believe is a value proposition that Manitoba companies can credibly offer.
China’s newly approved 15th Five-Year Plan (2026–2030) reinforces where the opportunities are heading: advanced manufacturing, clean and renewable energy, digital innovation, agri-food, and health-related industries. These are investment signals and several of them map directly onto what our province does well.
Where Manitoba Fits In
Looking at Manitoba’s strengths alongside China’s stated priorities, there are clear areas of opportunity, and I will share these below;
Education and talent
Manitoba’s post-secondary institutions have long-standing research and training partnerships in China - RRC Polytechnic, for example, has maintained an active collaboration with the Shenyang Institute of Engineering for nearly 40 years. For Chinese companies focused on building global capability, these existing connections are a credible starting point.
Agri-food
China’s growing middle class estimated at around 700 million consumers are increasingly health-conscious and willing to pay more for quality and safety. Manitoba’s canola and protein products fit this demand. The Manitoba Government has recently taken a great step to open Asia-Pacific channels, including a new partnership with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council specifically to connect Manitoba producers with buyers in mainland China.
Clean technology
China is the world’s largest investor in renewable energy spending USD $625 billion in 2024 — 31% of the global total and is deepening that commitment under its new Five-Year Plan. Manitoba’s clean energy expertise and hydroelectric advantage are genuine differentiators in this conversation.
Advanced manufacturing and testing
Our extreme-climate testing capabilities and manufacturing know-how are assets that align with China’s push toward higher-value, technology-driven production.
What This Means Practically
For businesses to succeed in this market, you need to spend real time there- listening to what buyers actually care about and adjusting your approach accordingly. China isn’t a simple market, but if you have a strong product and you’re willing to put in the effort, it remains a market worth paying attention to. Our upcoming Doing Business in China webinar is a great place to start exploring what that could look like.
Ready to explore what this means for your business?
Join us for the Doing Business in China webinar — practical insights, real-world guidance, and direct access to expertise tailored for Manitoba companies navigating this evolving market.
