Canada is set to ratify an enormous investment treaty with China in the coming days. Haven't heard of it? You're not alone. It may be the biggest agreement since NAFTA, but it's also a deal that was largely kept quiet until recently. Critics say that's a problem, and there are many more with the agreement itself. Proponents argue this is a big win for Canadian businesses, and the country as a whole. We hear both sides of the debate.

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Canada-China Agreement (FIPA)

This week, Ottawa is expected to ratify a new trade deal with China. The Canada-China Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, or FIPA, is the result of 18 years of talks and negotiation. Once China ratifies the deal, it could be in force as early as December.

Canadians argued loudly and passionately over NAFTA, but not so this time. And the Opposition accuses the government of forcing this deal through without proper debate.

We aired a clip from Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade, responding to NDP critic Don Davies last week in the House of Common.

The agreement is designed to attract more Chinese investment in Canada and to help Canadian businesses operate in China. Critics say Canada stands to lose too much. To discuss the pros and cons, we were joined by David Fung and Gus Van Harten.

David Fung is the vice-chair of the Canada China Business Council, and holds the title of Investment Champion for the Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. He was in Vancouver.

And Gus Van Harten, in Toronto, is an Associate Professor at the Osgoode Hall Law School who specializes in treaty and international investment law.

This segment was produced by The Current's Ashley Walters.

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Secret service agents on guarding the lives of others

Can men and women be "just friends"?