Overview

Japan and British Columbia enjoy a long history of relations. In this context, the Consulate General of Japan at Vancouver was established in 1889 as the first Japanese governmental office in Canada.

Now, strong business ties make Japan B.C.'s second largest trading partner after the U.S. On a "people to people" level, the relationship continues to grow through various exchange activities involving youth and local governments. Initiatives such as the JET Programme and the Working Holiday Programme expand our mutual understanding and friendship.

Japan and Canada have been cooperating in many fields. The Japan-Canada/ Canada-Japan Inter-Parliamentary Friendship Group meets every year. Foreign Ministerial meetings are also frequent. Talks between the two governments include official development assistance, housing, fisheries, finance, and telecommunications. To learn more visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs archive of Japan-Canada Relations News.