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Warning against the Canada-UAE trade deal: Unanswered questions on labor rights and geopolitical risks

Published July 25, 2026 at 8:32 AM UTC

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Critics of the Canada-UAE free-trade agreement caution that the deal may have been rushed without adequate safeguards for human rights and the environment. The UAE has faced international scrutiny over its labor practices, particularly in construction and domestic work, where migrant workers often face exploitation. Environmental groups worry that increased trade could lead to higher emissions from shipping and aviation, undermining Canada's climate goals. Another concern is the concentration of trade with a region marked by political instability and varying adherence to international norms. Canada could become vulnerable to shifts in UAE foreign policy or sanctions. The agreement's investor-state dispute settlement provisions, if included, may allow UAE firms to sue Canada over regulatory changes, chilling domestic policy. Critics also note that the deal's full text has not been made public, limiting transparency. They argue for a thorough parliamentary review and public consultations before signing, to ensure that the benefits do not come at an unacceptable cost to values or sovereignty.