India, Canada Target CEPA Conclusion By End-2026
India and Canada have agreed to accelerate negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with both countries aiming to conclude the trade pact by the end of 2026.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France. The leaders reviewed progress in bilateral relations and discussed opportunities to deepen cooperation across trade, energy, innovation, defence and people-to-people exchanges.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), both sides expressed satisfaction with the progress made in CEPA negotiations and reiterated their shared objective of finalising the agreement this year. The proposed trade pact is expected to strengthen economic ties and create new opportunities for businesses in both countries.
The two leaders also agreed to begin negotiations on a General Security of Information Agreement to enhance defence and security cooperation. Discussions further focused on strengthening resilient supply chains and expanding collaboration in critical sectors, including energy, technology and advanced manufacturing.
India and Canada reviewed ongoing cooperation in LNG, LPG and metallurgical coal, while also acknowledging progress in science and technology partnerships, migration dialogue and innovation initiatives.
For Indian exporters, including the textile and apparel sector, the proposed CEPA could open new avenues for market access and trade growth in Canada by reducing tariffs and improving the overall business environment.
The renewed momentum in India-Canada relations is expected to support stronger economic engagement and contribute to the diversification of India’s export markets in the coming years.
