India and Canada advance CEPA trade talks

India and Canada began the second round of negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) on May 4 in New Delhi. The five‑day talks will cover trade in goods, services and other policy areas, aiming to boost two‑way commerce and investment between the two nations. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said he will travel to Canada by the end of the month to accelerate the discussions, following a first round held in March.

Officials noted that while the India‑Canada negotiations move forward, other trade talks – such as those with the Gulf Cooperation Council, Chile and Peru – are proceeding more slowly because of the conflict in West Asia.