15 September 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : India and Canada have begun the fourth round of negotiations for a proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with both sides seeking to deepen bilateral trade and investment ties.
The five-day round of talks is being held from September 14 to 18, 2026, with negotiators discussing key areas including trade in goods and services, rules of origin and other elements of the proposed agreement.
Focus on Expanding Bilateral Trade
The proposed trade pact is aimed at creating a more predictable and favourable framework for businesses in both countries.
Negotiators are expected to address market-access issues and seek greater opportunities for exporters across sectors. Services, goods and rules governing the origin of products are among the important areas under discussion.
Fourth Round Follows Earlier Negotiations
The latest discussions follow the third round of negotiations held in Ottawa from July 6 to 10.
The two countries have been working to maintain momentum in the trade negotiations after relations between New Delhi and Ottawa improved following a period of diplomatic tensions.
Trade and Services in Focus
Services are expected to remain an important part of the negotiations because India has a strong presence in areas such as information technology, professional services and business services.
Improved access to the Canadian market could create opportunities for Indian companies and professionals, while Canadian businesses could gain greater access to India’s rapidly expanding consumer and investment market.
Rules of Origin Among Key Issues
Rules of origin are another important part of the negotiations.
These rules determine where a product is considered to have been made and are crucial for determining whether goods qualify for preferential tariff treatment under a trade agreement.
Agreement on these provisions will be important for preventing misuse of tariff preferences while facilitating genuine bilateral trade.
India-Canada Economic Relationship
Canada remains an important economic partner for India, with bilateral trade covering goods as well as a wide range of services.
Indian exporters have significant interests in the Canadian market, while Canadian companies and investors have exposure to sectors including financial services, infrastructure, energy, agriculture and education.
Target of Stronger Economic Engagement
The proposed CEPA is expected to provide a broader framework for expanding commercial ties and supporting long-term investment flows.
Both countries have previously expressed ambitions to significantly increase bilateral trade in the coming years, making the current negotiations important for their wider economic relationship.
Diplomatic Relations Provide Backdrop
The trade talks are taking place after a period of strained India-Canada relations.
The two sides have gradually worked towards improving diplomatic engagement, creating greater space for economic and commercial discussions.
The resumption and continuation of CEPA negotiations is therefore being viewed as part of a broader effort to strengthen bilateral ties.
What Happens Next
The fourth round will continue through September 18, after which negotiators are expected to assess progress on the issues under discussion.
Further rounds may be required before the two countries can finalise the proposed agreement, as sensitive market-access and regulatory issues can take considerable time to resolve.
Trade Pact Could Open New Opportunities
If concluded successfully, the CEPA could reduce trade barriers, improve market access and provide greater certainty for companies operating between India and Canada.
For both countries, the agreement could become an important instrument for expanding trade and investment while giving a stronger economic foundation to their bilateral relationship.