As U.S. trade tensions continue to disrupt global markets, Canada is looking to seize new opportunities abroad. In an interview with CBC’s The House, International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu said now is the time to expand Canada’s global trade footprint.

“There’s an appetite with partners and allies all around the world to do more with Canada,” Sidhu told guest host Janyce McGregor. “There is an opportune window that we have to jump on.”

Sidhu said his focus is on helping Canadian businesses grow internationally.

“Success to me is getting businesses more comfortable dealing with overseas markets,” he said. “We should be screaming at the top of our lungs about what Canada can offer the world.”

Canada is making progress with emerging partners like Ecuador and the UAE, and recently announced plans to ratify the U.K.’s entry into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) this fall — a move that could rekindle stalled U.K. trade talks.

“The U.K. is an important partner,” said Sidhu, noting ongoing conversations with British trade officials despite differences over supply management.

Sidhu also sees potential with India and China, even as diplomatic tensions persist. He pointed to renewed diplomatic ties with India and steady business growth.

“Trade and other business-to-business dealings have been continuing… on an upward trajectory,” he said.

Canada and China have agreed to reconvene their Joint Economic and Trade Commission to address tariffs and other barriers.

“Diplomacy can do wonders,” Sidhu said. “We need to make sure we’re having those conversations — and that’s exactly what I’ll be doing.”