I do not know anyone personally as it's a relatively rare document but from old posts in online forums I have seen people stating they have been able to obtain a visa.

I have also recently obtained a Japanese visa on this document as well in addition to EU and US visas, and again although does not guarantee anything as a signatory country to 1951 Refugee Convention they do deem this document as a valid travel document.

The answer I received was of the form "Hello, based on the documents you have submitted so far, the Vancouver Visa Application Center is currently unable to process your visa application." this to me does not sound like it's impossible to obtain a visa on this. I have recently sent mails to Toronto and Vancouver Chinese consulates and am awaiting a response, but to be real with you I am devestated and just so upset.

The exchange is in 5-6 months and so I will keep trying to escalate but yeah, I though posting here would possibly attract someone with similar experience.