A Comparative PESTEL Analysis of Canada and China’s Management of Energy Markets

Abstract

As globalization forces increase, the importance of intentional international trade partnerships is evident. Due to tense China-U.S. relations, this presents Canada with a unique opportunity to attain a stake in the global energy economy. This paper analyzes the risks associated with the development of these potentially lucrative partnerships from the lens of political, economic, socio-cultural, technological, environmental, and legal (PESTEL) implications. While the differences between the Canadian and Chinese approaches to these perspectives present a significant barrier, Canada stands to gain significant financial and economic benefits from such a partnership.