India and Canada are intensifying negotiations over a potential Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with significant developments expected in the coming months. Canadian Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu is scheduled to visit New Delhi in mid-October, coinciding with the fifth round of CEPA talks in Canada starting October 5. This visit will also see a Canadian trade delegation traveling to India to investigate business and investment opportunities.
During his visit, Sidhu will engage in discussions with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. The meetings aim to address several outstanding issues that have emerged in negotiations, which began in March 2026. Four rounds have been completed, with the most recent taking place in New Delhi from September 14 to 18. Both nations are eager to finalize the agreement shortly, as it is anticipated to significantly boost bilateral trade and investment.
The proposed CEPA is seen as a crucial step in expanding economic ties between India and Canada. In 2025, trade in goods and services between the two countries amounted to $30.4 billion. Both governments have set an ambitious target of increasing bilateral trade to $70 billion by 2030. The agreement aims to facilitate this growth by reducing trade barriers and fostering closer economic collaboration.
As part of the broader discussions to enhance economic relations, India and Canada are also exploring cooperation in various sectors. These include energy, clean technology, life sciences, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. Such collaboration is expected to open new avenues for trade and investment, further strengthening ties between the two countries.
The upcoming ministerial-level discussions will be critical in resolving the remaining issues in the CEPA negotiations. Both sides remain optimistic about reaching a consensus that will pave the way for a mutually beneficial agreement. The renewed focus on these trade talks reflects the commitment of India and Canada to deepen their economic partnership and achieve shared prosperity.