India and Canada have concluded the third round of negotiations for the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with both sides reporting progress across multiple areas and reaffirming their commitment to finalize the pact by 2026.
Third Round Held in Ottawa
The latest round of talks took place in Ottawa from July 6 to 10, as confirmed by the Canadian Department of Commerce on Saturday. The discussions reflected the shared vision of the leadership of both countries to advance economic engagement, the department stated.
Negotiators from both sides covered a wide range of topics, including trade in goods and services, investment, rules of origin, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, technical barriers to trade, and intellectual property rights. The progress made during this round is seen as a positive step toward deepening bilateral trade ties.
Commitment to 2026 Deadline
Both India and Canada have reiterated their goal to conclude the CEPA negotiations by 2026. The agreement is expected to significantly boost trade and investment between the two economies. According to the Canadian Department of Commerce, the talks were conducted in a constructive and forward-looking manner.
The CEPA aims to reduce tariffs, enhance market access, and create a more predictable and transparent trade environment. It is also expected to facilitate greater collaboration in sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, information technology, and services.
Bilateral Trade Context
Bilateral trade between India and Canada has been growing steadily, with total merchandise trade reaching approximately CAD 8.2 billion in 2025. The CEPA is expected to further accelerate this growth by eliminating barriers and promoting investment flows.
Canadian officials noted that the agreement would benefit businesses and consumers in both countries by providing new opportunities and lowering costs. Indian officials echoed these sentiments, highlighting the potential for increased exports and job creation.
Next Steps
The fourth round of negotiations is expected to be scheduled later this year, with both sides continuing to work on outstanding issues. The Canadian Department of Commerce expressed optimism about the trajectory of the talks, stating that the shared commitment to a 2026 conclusion remains strong.
The successful conclusion of the CEPA would mark a milestone in India-Canada economic relations, opening up new avenues for cooperation and mutual prosperity.
