India and Canada have discussed advancing negotiations for a proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to improve market access and strengthen bilateral trade and investment.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal held discussions with his Canadian counterpart, Maninder Sidhu, on Tuesday. The talks focused on achieving a balanced and mutually beneficial agreement that could create new opportunities for businesses in both countries.

Goyal expressed confidence that the proposed India-Canada CEPA would give fresh momentum to bilateral trade and deepen economic cooperation. However, he did not disclose specific details of the discussions.

The meeting followed the conclusion of the fifth round of CEPA negotiations on October 9 in Canada. Both countries aim to conclude the negotiations by the end of 2026.

The proposed agreement seeks to reduce or eliminate import duties on a wide range of goods. It also aims to improve trade in services and encourage cross-border investment.

However, bilateral trade in goods has declined. Trade fell 8.23% to $7.95 billion in the 2025–26 financial year, compared with $8.7 billion in 2024–25.

If finalised, the agreement could help expand market access, strengthen commercial ties and create new opportunities for exporters. Businesses across both countries will be watching the negotiations closely as India and Canada work towards a stronger economic partnership.