India and Canada are intensifying their efforts to finalize a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) as Canadian Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu prepares to visit New Delhi in mid-October. The visit follows the fifth round of negotiations set to occur in Canada starting October 5, where Sidhu will meet with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.
This upcoming engagement between the two nations marks a crucial step in addressing several unresolved issues that require high-level ministerial discussions. Both countries are eager to conclude the agreement swiftly, aiming to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities significantly.
The proposed CEPA, initiated in March 2026, has already undergone four rounds of talks, with the most recent session held in New Delhi from September 14 to 18. The agreement is designed to boost the economic relationship between India and Canada, which recorded a combined trade of $30.4 billion in goods and services in 2025. The two governments are aiming to increase this figure to $70 billion by 2030.
The negotiations coincide with broader efforts to strengthen economic ties between India and Canada, including exploring cooperation in sectors such as energy, clean technology, life sciences, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. A Canadian trade delegation is also expected to travel to India to explore business and investment opportunities during Sidhu’s visit.
As discussions progress, both nations are optimistic about achieving a mutually beneficial agreement that aligns with their economic growth goals and fosters stronger bilateral relations.