Canada To Send Trade Mission To India As CEPA Talks Gather Pace
Canada will send a high-level trade mission to India later this year as both countries intensify efforts to deepen bilateral economic engagement and conclude negotiations for a long-pending trade agreement by the end of 2026.
The announcement followed discussions between Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Canada’s Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu, during which the two sides also launched the Canada-India Trade and Investment Forum to strengthen business collaboration.
The renewed engagement signals growing momentum in commercial ties, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to advancing negotiations on the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
According to a joint statement, negotiators are working towards finalising the agreement by year-end. The proposed pact is expected to improve market access, strengthen supply-chain resilience and unlock fresh opportunities for businesses in both countries.
Sidhu announced that Canada would lead a Team Canada Trade Mission to India later this year, reflecting rising interest among Canadian companies in exploring opportunities in the Indian market.
During the talks, both ministers identified key areas for expanded cooperation, including clean energy, critical minerals, agri-food, advanced manufacturing, digital technologies and skills development.
The ministers also highlighted the importance of improving connectivity through stronger business mobility, commercial partnerships and broader people-to-people engagement.
The newly launched Canada-India Trade and Investment Forum is expected to facilitate direct industry interaction and support the creation of new commercial partnerships.
Both sides also agreed to encourage long-term investment in priority sectors and deepen collaboration among businesses, innovators and institutional stakeholders as negotiations progress.
