Canada Eyes India Trade Deal by Year-End
Canada is optimistic that negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with India can be concluded by the end of 2026, Canadian International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu said during a visit to Mumbai. The two countries are accelerating talks as they seek deeper trade, investment and energy ties.
India-Canada CEPA Talks Target Year-End Deal
Sidhu said he was optimistic that the two sides could complete negotiations in the coming months. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier set a year-end objective for reaching the proposed trade agreement.
Indian trade negotiators are expected to travel to Canada in October for further discussions. The two countries’ leaders are also expected to have an opportunity to engage on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in December.
Canada and India have already completed multiple rounds of CEPA negotiations, covering market access, investment and other areas of economic cooperation.
Energy Cooperation Emerges as Key Focus
Energy is becoming an important part of the negotiations as Canada expands its capacity to export liquefied natural gas.
Canadian officials are holding discussions with Indian companies on accessing LNG projects, investing in Canadian energy infrastructure and potentially securing long-term supplies.
The two countries are also exploring greater nuclear energy cooperation as India plans a major expansion of its nuclear power capacity. Canada has an established nuclear industry and could participate in developing Indian supply chains.
Indian Companies Eye Canadian Critical Minerals
Major Indian business groups are also exploring investments in Canadian critical mineral projects as companies seek more secure and diversified supply chains.
Reliance Industries, Mahindra & Mahindra and JSW Group are among companies examining opportunities in the sector.
Canada has set a broader target of significantly expanding bilateral commerce with India by 2030, making the proposed CEPA central to the growing economic relationship.
