India-Canada Trade Talks Gain Momentum, CEPA Deal Targeted by Year End
Energy, nuclear cooperation and critical minerals emerge as key areas as both countries work to strengthen economic ties.
India, Sep 20 : India and Canada are working towards concluding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of 2026, with negotiations increasingly focusing on energy, nuclear cooperation and critical minerals.
Canadian International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu said on September 19 that he was optimistic about completing the trade negotiations in the coming months. Indian trade negotiators are expected to visit Canada next month, while leaders from both countries could hold discussions on the sidelines of the G20 summit in December.
Energy has emerged as an important part of the negotiations. Canadian and Indian companies are discussing opportunities linked to liquefied natural gas projects, including potential investments and long-term supply arrangements.
The two countries are also exploring greater cooperation in the nuclear energy sector. Canada, which has decades of experience in the nuclear industry, could support India’s plans to expand its nuclear power capacity and develop related supply chains.
Critical minerals are another area attracting business interest. According to Sidhu, major Indian companies, including Reliance Industries, Mahindra & Mahindra and JSW Group, are exploring investment opportunities in Canadian critical mineral projects.
Such investments could help Indian companies strengthen access to minerals needed for manufacturing and emerging technologies, while creating new opportunities for Canadian projects.
The trade negotiations come as both countries seek to deepen commercial links and make supply chains more resilient. The proposed CEPA is expected to cover a wide range of sectors and could provide a framework for expanding bilateral trade and investment.
Both sides are continuing discussions with the aim of addressing outstanding issues before reaching a final agreement.
