The potential free trade agreement between Canada and India is being hailed as a transformative opportunity, as emphasized by Mark Carney in recent discussions with India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in Ottawa. These talks revolved around the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with both parties expressing a positive outlook on concluding the deal within the current year. Carney highlighted that the agreement could significantly benefit Canadian sectors such as energy, agriculture, technology, and education by creating new opportunities for workers and businesses.
During the discussions, Goyal shared greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and underscored the focus on enhancing long-term bilateral cooperation while expediting trade negotiations. Canada’s international trade minister, Maninder Sidhu, was also present in the talks. Both nations confirmed their commitment to advancing the negotiations, having already completed two rounds, with Canada poised to host the next session.
Accompanying Goyal on his visit is a major business delegation from India, comprising over 100 business representatives. They are engaging in trade and investment discussions planned in Toronto, aiming to bolster economic ties between the two countries. Goyal also met with Canadian foreign minister Anita Anand and agriculture minister Heath MacDonald, as part of broader efforts to strengthen cooperation across various sectors.
This renewed engagement marks a significant turnaround in India-Canada relations, which had soured in 2023 following allegations related to the killing of Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, accusations that India had firmly denied. Relations began to improve after Carney assumed office in 2025, paving the way for renewed diplomatic efforts and the resumption of CEPA negotiations.