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The Hindu
20-07-2025
- Business
- The Hindu
Looking beyond the U.S. for college
Indian students have always viewed the U.S. as a top study destination. However, the ongoing visa challenges, growing concerns around job opportunities after graduation, rising costs, and shifting immigration policies are causing anxiety among applicants and parents. With this looming fear of 'what next', let's explore destinations beyond the U.S. Canada Pros: Appointment of a new Foreign Minister, Anita Anand, and three other Indian-origin leaders: Maninder Sidhu as Minister of International Trade, and Ruby Sahota and Randeep Sarai as Secretaries of State Recent improvements in India-Canada diplomatic relations Postgraduate work permit for up to three years and an easier pathway to permanent residence than most other countries. There is even an express entry route. Diversity, inclusion and a supportive environment for Indian students in the campuses Cons Increased financial documentation requirements and tighter visa rules. Since January 2024, there has been a significant increase in the required proof of funds amount to be shown for the Canadian study permit. Increase in the number of visa application rejections due to policy fluctuations Rising living costs and competition in large cities Germany Pros Approximately 2,300 English-taught programmes Public universities are tuition-free. Up to 18 months post study visa to look for a job. Geographically at the centre of Europe and well connected A strong economy and job market Cons Studienkolleg requirement: Indian high school qualifications (Class 12) are not directly eligible for most public Bachelor's programmes. Students must complete a one-year Studienkolleg foundation programme and pass the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) before they can begin undergraduate studies. Some Studienkollegs accept B1 for entry, but this is rare and usually for private institutions. Public Studienkollegs often require B2 German. At the Master's level, no German language proficiency is required for admission. While courses are taught in English, German has to be learnt for daily life and work opportunities. Coursework is known to be demanding. Netherlands Pros Many English programmes available in top universities Acceptance rates are higher as compared to other countries. One year post-study work visa High quality of life Cons Coursework is demanding High living costs, especially in Amsterdam For citizenship A2 level of Dutch is required. It's beneficial to demonstrate an even higher level Ireland Pros Only English-speaking country in the European Union (post Brexit) Several major international companies have their European or EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) headquarters in Dublin Supportive multicultural environment in Dublin Cons Cost of living in Dublin Weather can be rainy, dark, and very cold in the winter Food can also be tough for Indians though more options keep opening up. New Zealand Pros Safe, student-friendly, and supportive environment English-speaking environment makes adjustment easier Pathway programme options allow you to study your dream subject even if you don't initially meet the entry criteria. Cons Far from India and a bit disconnected from the rest of the world. Can be slightly 'boring', as the cities are smaller and quieter. Dubai Pros Globally recognised Indian as well as international universities have campuses here Easy work permit availability for internships/part-time roles Safe, multicultural environment with a strong Indian presence Cons Weather can be harsh, especially in summer Restrictions around free speech and modest culture expectations Some institutions lack strong global rankings or focus on research Japan Pros High-quality education, strong global ranking, and a growing Indian student population Universities offering scholarships, English-taught programmes and favourable part-time work policies Recent growth in English-medium liberal arts programmes Safe, low-crime country Unique cultural immersion alongside technological advancement Cons Major language barrier; even in a city like Tokyo, getting by without Japanese can be an issue. Cultural norms may feel restrictive. Cold winters and high-pressure academic environment High living costs, especially in Tokyo With inputs from Kritika Malhotra The writer is Founder and CEO, Inomi Learning, a Gurugram-based career and college guidance firm. info@
Hamilton Spectator
19-07-2025
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
Canada, New Zealand settle trade dispute regarding supply management of dairy sector
OTTAWA - Canada and New Zealand have settled a trade dispute over Ottawa's dairy-sector protections that regulate the cost and supply of products such as milk and cheese. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership includes certain quotas for countries to export dairy at preferred tariff rates into other member countries. New Zealand successfully argued before a trade panel in September 2023 that Canada was unfairly limiting its quotas to protect domestic dairy processors. The panel ruled at the time that Ottawa had some discretion over how it allocates its dairy quotas, but that some of its rules violate the trade deal. New Zealand threatened retaliatory tariffs after it said Canada failed to abide by the ruling. On Thursday, both countries said they reached an agreement for technical changes. In a statement, Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu and Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald said the agreement only applies to quotas under the existing deal and 'does not amend Canada's market-access commitments.' They said the 'technical policy changes' to tariff-rate quotas primarily involve faster market access, increasing data transparency and a mechanism to reallocate underused quotas. They also enable an on-demand system for those with repeatedly underfilled quotas. New Zealand's trade department described the solution similarly. 'Importers will be able to access quota faster and more efficiently, making it easier to trade more dairy under Canada's CPTPP quotas,' the department wrote, adding that this was 'the first dispute New Zealand has taken under a free-trade agreement.' New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay wrote in a statement that this week's agreement will deliver the equivalent of up to $129 million in Canadian dollars 'in export value for New Zealand dairy exporters.' Dairy Farmers of Canada said it was 'aware' of the agreement, and 'expects that the Canadian government will continue to uphold our national food security and food sovereignty' after Thursday's settlement. 'We understand that this will result in certain minor policy changes to Canada's TRQ administration,' spokeswoman Lucie Boileau wrote. The dairy dispute was the first taken up by any party under the CPTPP, a trade deal largely focused on Pacific Rim countries who say they agree on rules-based trade. The U.K. joined that trade bloc last year, and the European Union has been looking at working with the grouping to counterbalance American and Chinese trade coercion. This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 18, 2025.
The Market Online
18-07-2025
- Business
- The Market Online
@ the Bell: Canada eyes trade expansion in the face of American tariff deadline
Canada's main stock index took a hit on Friday, supported by encouraging domestic trade developments and US economic data that pointed to continued strength. International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu highlighted growing interest in deepening trade negotiations with Mercosur—a South American alliance that includes Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay—as part of Ottawa's broader strategy to reduce reliance on US trade. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mark Carney and his administration are engaged in discussions with US President Donald Trump, aiming to finalize a trade deal before the looming August 1 deadline, when 35 per cent tariffs are scheduled to be implemented. Earlier in the week, Carney introduced a steel tariff rate quota to shield Canada's steel sector. On Wall Street, markets were mixed though losses were mitigated by strong earnings reports from major banks and tech firms. The Canadian dollar traded for 72.86 cents US compared to 72.76 cents US on Thursday. US crude futures traded $0.12 lower at US$67.42 a barrel, and the Brent contract lost $0.20 to US$69.32 a barrel. The price of gold was up US$12.94 to US$3,353.37. In world markets, the Nikkei was down 82.08 points to ¥39,819.11, the Hang Seng was up 326.71 points to HK$24,825.66, the FTSE was up 19.48 points to ₤8,992.12, and the DAX was down 81.42 points to €24,289.51. Stockhouse does not provide investment advice or recommendations. All investment decisions should be made based on your own research and consultation with a registered investment professional. The issuer is solely responsible for the accuracy of the information contained herein. For full disclaimer information, please click here .
Toronto Sun
18-07-2025
- Business
- Toronto Sun
Canada, New Zealand settle trade dispute regarding supply management of dairy sector
Published Jul 18, 2025 • 2 minute read Dairy cows on a farm in B.C. on December 19, 2024. Photo by Postmedia files OTTAWA — Canada and New Zealand have settled a trade dispute over Ottawa's dairy-sector protections that regulate the cost and supply of products such as milk and cheese. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership includes certain quotas for countries to export dairy at preferred tariff rates into other member countries. New Zealand successfully argued before a trade panel in September 2023 that Canada was unfairly limiting its quotas to protect domestic dairy processors. The panel ruled at the time that Ottawa had some discretion over how it allocates its dairy quotas, but that some of its rules violate the trade deal. New Zealand threatened retaliatory tariffs after it said Canada failed to abide by the ruling. On Thursday, both countries said they reached an agreement for technical changes. In a statement, Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu and Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald said the agreement only applies to quotas under the existing deal and 'does not amend Canada's market-access commitments.' Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. They said the 'technical policy changes' to tariff-rate quotas primarily involve faster market access, increasing data transparency and a mechanism to reallocate underused quotas. They also enable an on-demand system for those with repeatedly underfilled quotas. New Zealand's trade department described the solution similarly. 'Importers will be able to access quota faster and more efficiently, making it easier to trade more dairy under Canada's CPTPP quotas,' the department wrote, adding that this was 'the first dispute New Zealand has taken under a free-trade agreement.' New Zealand Trade Minister Todd McClay wrote in a statement that this week's agreement will deliver the equivalent of up to $129 million in Canadian dollars 'in export value for New Zealand dairy exporters.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Dairy Farmers of Canada said it was 'aware' of the agreement, and 'expects that the Canadian government will continue to uphold our national food security and food sovereignty' after Thursday's settlement. 'We understand that this will result in certain minor policy changes to Canada's TRQ administration,' spokeswoman Lucie Boileau wrote. The dairy dispute was the first taken up by any party under the CPTPP, a trade deal largely focused on Pacific Rim countries who say they agree on rules-based trade. The U.K. joined that trade bloc last year, and the European Union has been looking at working with the grouping to counterbalance American and Chinese trade coercion. MMA Toronto & GTA Tennis Celebrity Sunshine Girls
CTV News
18-07-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Canada eyes Mercosur trade pact to reduce U.S. reliance, minister says
Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu arrives for a caucus meeting Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick OTTAWA -- Canada's international trade minister said on Thursday that there was interest from both sides to advance trade talks with South American bloc Mercosur, as Ottawa seeks new deals in a push to diversify from the U.S. Prime Minister Mark Carney and his team have been locked in talks with U.S. President Donald Trump to hash out a trade deal by August 1, which could help reduce tariffs on Canada. But his government is also preparing to rely less on a relationship that generated bilateral trade of over $1 trillion (US$727.33 billion) last year and to focus on diversifying trade by signing free trade pacts globally. 'I had conversations with the foreign minister of Brazil, and there is appetite to carry out conversations around Mercosur,' Minister Maninder Sidhu said in an interview with Reuters. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva had said in April that he was interested in advancing talks for a trade deal between South America's Mercosur bloc and Canada. Mercosur - which includes Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay - has had negotiation rounds for a trade deal with Canada in the past. Canada is also keen to continue talks with China to address trade challenges and views a thawing of relations between India and Canada as an important step to support trade, the Minister said. 'With China, there are opportunities, there are challenges,' he said, adding that the countries are holding frank discussions on a path forward on trade tariffs around exports of canola, beef, pet food and many other products. Canada has 15 free-trade deals covering 51 countries, giving it access to 1.5 billion consumers and Sidhu said that Ottawa will be pursuing more such deals in the coming months without giving a specific target. He had signed a free trade deal with Ecuador and an investment promotion pact with the UAE in his first two months in office and said discussions are on with the ASEAN countries and also individually with countries in the Indo-Pacific, including Indonesia and the Philippines. Over-exposure Sidhu said Canadian companies are over-exposed to the U.S. and they are not as competitive as they used to be due to Trump's tariffs. 'My job is to be out there opening doors,' he said, adding that he would seek to diversify not only trade but Canada's defense procurements from the U.S. Carney has promised to increase defense spending by an additional C$9 billion this year to meet NATO's target of spending 2% of GDP. 'We are working with the European Union and other partners around the world to help unlock some of those procurement opportunities in defense for our Canadian companies,' he said. Canadian exports to the U.S. dropped in May to 68% of total exports from a monthly average of 75% last year. The U.S. share in May was the lowest on record as companies pushed to diversify from the U.S. He did not respond directly on what a trade deal between Canada and the U.S. would look like, but said the government would 'work towards a deal that's best for Canadian businesses and Canadian workers.' Reporting by Promit Mukherjee; Editing by Caroline Stauffer, Rod Nickel and Saad Sayeed, Reuters
