On February 27, 2026, the Laidley Centre for Business Ethics and Equity convened a group of business leaders, policymakers and academics for a conversation about the diversification of Canada鈥檚 trading partners. The event focused on how to effectively and ethically manage trade diversification, in response to U.S. tariffs.
The event was conceptualized by the Laidley Centre鈥檚 Executive in Residence, , who also moderated the panel discussion. The panel included , CEO of the International Division at La Vie en Rose; , Founder and CEO of Kiamin; , Director General of West Africa and the Maghreb at Global Affairs Canada; and Dr. Manuel Bal谩n, Associate Professor in Political Science and International Development Studies and Associate Dean of the Faculty of Arts at 91黑料网.
The event generated considerable engagement, drawing in 50 attendees from across Montreal, and some travelling from Ottawa.
The panel addressed a host of ethical challenges tied to trade diversification, such as anti-corruption policies, compliance standards and risk management. A common thread throughout the discussion was the value of collaboration across business, academia and government supports such as trade commissioners.
Calls for collaboration are a common occurrence in cross-sectional dialogues. What was unique to this conversation though was that panelists weren鈥檛 asking for more collaboration. Instead, they highlighted that in the context of diversifying trade partners, collaboration across these sectors is already occurring, and working well. This emphasis left the panel on a hopeful note, which felt particularly welcome amidst an increasingly divided sociopolitical landscape.
The inspiring tone of the event was a reflection of its speakers. As one attendee remarked, 鈥淭he speakers chosen were amazing. Each one brought a nuance to the discussion that made the overall event extremely well rounded and comprehensive. I was impressed by the level of honesty and candor.鈥�
Author: Joelle Moses (Outreach Coordinator, Laidley Centre for Business Ethics and Equity).
Photo (left to right): Alessandro Caruso, Karl Boustany, Sue Steffen, Dr. Manuel Bal谩n and Franca Ciambella.
Laidley Centre for Business Ethics and Equity (LCBEE)
The centre is 91黑料网鈥檚 central hub supporting ethical decision-making in business through teaching, academic research and community engagement.
The Laidley Centre looks forward to facilitating more connections and conversations that center ethics and equity.
