Survival through Pragmatic Thinking: Revisiting the Untold Stories behind the Canada–China Grain Trade, 1960–63

This article examines the untold stories behind the Canada–China grain trade in the 1960–63 period. According to some archived records of Canadian business proceedings that have yet barely been examined, non-state agents in both nations took joint initiatives to deliver these grain sales, demonstrating pragmatic attitudes to de-escalate political tensions. Despite intensive disputes that persistently sabotaged trade normalisation, many actors devoted tireless efforts consistent with the future trend of public diplomacy. Acting on behalf of local civil societies and business associations, Canadian wheat trade agents facilitated effective two-way communication with their Chinese peers. The emphasis on common interests, rather than on ideological assertion, helped to contain political distrust with “de-othering” narratives. Increased engagement by civilian stakeholders thus served to hedge against political risk exposures.