India and Canada are preparing to restart formal free trade negotiations by early 2026 — but this time, the talks will begin fresh. Officials say both countries now want a full Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) covering goods, services, investments, and more, instead of the smaller deal discussed earlier.
Trade talks were paused in 2023 after political tensions, but relations improved after Mark Carney became Canada’s Prime Minister in 2025. At the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, Carney and India’s PM Narendra Modi agreed to reopen talks and aim to double trade to $50 billion by 2030.
Global pressures, including U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump, are motivating both countries to strengthen ties. India’s recent FTAs with the UK and EFTA could also help guide CEPA negotiations.
Both sides are exploring cooperation in critical minerals, clean energy, aerospace, and defence. A Canadian delegation recently visited India to discuss opportunities.
India’s exports to Canada rose nearly 10% in 2024–25, while Canadian imports dipped slightly. Prime Minister Carney is expected to visit India in early 2026, where formal CEPA announcements may be made.
(Source: The Hindu BusinessLine)
Get exclusive updates from Brampton and across Canada at Brampton-News.com.
