Canadian High Commissioner Chris Cooter said a 2026 timeline for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Canada and India is realistic [1].
The agreement aims to dismantle trade barriers and strengthen economic ties between the two nations. By reducing tariffs and streamlining regulations, the deal could fundamentally alter the flow of goods and services across the Pacific and Atlantic.
Negotiations for the CEPA will specifically address issues such as tariffs [1]. Both nations have expressed an ambition to conclude the agreement this year [1], [2]. This acceleration follows high-level diplomatic efforts, including visits by Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to Ottawa to boost economic ties [2].
A primary objective of the partnership is a significant expansion of bilateral trade. The two countries target a three-fold increase in trade volume [1]. This growth strategy aims to bring the total value of bilateral trade to approximately USD 50 million by 2030 [1].
The push for the agreement comes as both Canada and India seek to diversify their trading partners and reduce reliance on single-market dependencies. The current negotiations focus on creating a stable framework that benefits both exporters, and consumers in the respective markets.
Cooter said the 2026 target remains a viable goal for the finalization of the pact [1]. The process involves balancing the agricultural and industrial interests of both nations to ensure mutual economic gain.
“A 2026 timeline for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between Canada and India is realistic.”
The pursuit of a CEPA signals a strategic shift toward deeper economic integration between India and Canada. If the target of USD 50 million in trade by 2030 is met, it would represent a significant scaling of commercial activity, though the success of the deal depends on resolving long-standing tariff disputes and regulatory hurdles.
