Canada and India have returned to the negotiating table in Ottawa this week for the fifth round of talks on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, the long-sought trade deal both countries now hope to conclude by the end of 2026. The round runs from October 5 to 9.
Energy, critical minerals, aerospace and artificial intelligence top the agenda. Canadian International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu expressed optimism about finalizing the pact, pointing to momentum from his recent visit to Mumbai and discussions at the G20 summit, along with recent talks with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal.
The urgency has sharpened amid Canada's ongoing trade war with the United States, with billions of dollars in goods subject to tariffs imposed by both sides. Diversifying trade partners has become a strategic priority for Ottawa — and India, with its economy expanding at around 7 per cent a year, is a natural target.
Energy cooperation is a primary focus: Canada says it is prepared to help meet India's fast-growing energy needs, which are projected to rise by 70 per cent by 2035, including through major liquefied natural gas investments such as the $33-billion LNG Canada Phase 2 project. On critical minerals, Ottawa is positioning Canada as a long-term, reliable supplier as both countries look to diversify their supply chains.
