# India-Canada CEPA negotiations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/india-canada-cepa-negotiations
> Updated: 2026-09-19T10:29:01.000Z. Sources: 8. Developments: 3.

India and Canada have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through the negotiation of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). During annual Foreign Office Consultations in New Delhi, both nations set a target to conclude these negotiations by the end of 2026, aiming to more than double bilateral trade to CAD 70 billion by 2030.

Discussions have highlighted progress in sectors including energy, critical minerals, science and technology, education, security, and defense. Both delegations emphasized that shared democratic values, respect for sovereignty, and adherence to the rule of law serve as the foundations for their renewed bilateral engagement.

As negotiations progress, Canadian International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu expressed optimism that the CEPA could be finalized by the end of the year. Following a visit to Mumbai, it was noted that Indian trade officials are expected to visit Canada next month, with a potential meeting between leaders on the sidelines of the G-20 summit in December.

Energy cooperation remains a key focus, specifically regarding liquefied natural gas (LNG) and nuclear energy. Furthermore, major Indian business groups, including Reliance Industries, Mahindra and Mahindra, and the JSW Group, are reportedly exploring investments in Canadian critical mineral projects to secure supply chains against global volatility.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-19: Canada seeks to finalize trade agreement with India by year-end

Canada aims to conclude a comprehensive economic partnership agreement with India by year-end, focusing on energy, nuclear cooperation, and critical mineral investments.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/canada-seeks-to-finalize-trade-agreement-with-india-by-year-end

### 2026-09-02: India and Canada target CEPA conclusion by 2026

India and Canada aim to finalize a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by 2026, targeting a bilateral trade increase to CAD 70 billion by 2030.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/india-and-canada-target-cepa-conclusion-by-2026

### 2026-08-13: UAE and Canada finalize Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement

The UAE and Canada have finalized a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to reduce trade barriers and facilitate a $50 billion investment commitment in sectors like energy and AI.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/australia-and-uae-finalize-comprehensive-trade-agreement

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Cite as: India-Canada CEPA negotiations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/india-canada-cepa-negotiations