Piyush Goyal Confirms India-Canada FTA Talks To Resume
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has announced that India and Canada will formally resume negotiations on the long-pending Free Trade Agreement (FTA), known as the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Goyal said both sides agreed to reactivate working groups and reopen all negotiation tracks after a high-level meeting in New Delhi.
Goyal Highlights Trade Potential
Goyal emphasised that India sees strong prospects for expanding trade in goods, services and investment with Canada. He noted that collaboration in areas such as critical minerals, clean energy, nuclear cooperation and digital trade will form a major part of the renewed talks. According to Goyal, both nations aim to rebuild momentum and address issues that stalled progress earlier.
Background To The Break In Talks
The FTA process was halted in 2023 following diplomatic tensions, including allegations made by Canada in the Nijjar case — claims New Delhi rejected. Goyal said that reopening negotiations signals a mutual attempt to refocus on economic priorities despite past disagreements.
Goyal Cautions On Negotiation Challenges
Goyal also acknowledged that several hurdles remain, including tariff sensitivities, investment rules, labour mobility and regulatory alignment. He said both sides must work through these issues to ensure the agreement benefits businesses and consumers in both countries.
