Canada, India Begin Round 5 of CEPA Trade Negotiations

Canada and India are set to begin the fifth round of negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in Ottawa, as both countries seek to build stronger economic and trade ties.

Tomorrow morning in Ottawa, Canada and India begin Round 5 of CEPA trade negotiations, building on the momentum from my visit to Mumbai two weeks ago and my discussions with Minister Goyal at the G20. India's economy is growing 7% a year, and its energy needs will climb 70% by 2035. Canada is ready to deliver. LNG Canada Phase 2 has received a $33 billion investment that will make it the second-largest facility of its kind in the world. Within five years, Canada will be a top five LNG exporter. From energy to critical minerals to aerospace, Canada is ready to be the reliable partner India needs. That’s why we’re focused on concluding a trade agreement that will open new doors for Canadian businesses and workers in one of the world's largest economies.

— Maninder Sidhu (@MSidhuLiberal) October 4, 2026

Canada’s Minister for International Trade Maninder Sidhu said the latest round builds on the momentum from his recent visit to Mumbai and discussions with India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal at the G20.

In a social media post, Sidhu highlighted India’s economic growth and rising energy requirements, saying Canada is positioned to support India’s expanding energy needs.

“India's economy is growing 7% a year, and its energy needs will climb 70% by 2035,” Sidhu said, adding that Canada is ready to deliver on energy cooperation.

Sidhu also pointed to LNG Canada Phase 2, which has received a reported $33 billion investment. According to the Canadian minister, the project is expected to make Canada the world’s second-largest facility of its kind and help the country become one of the top five LNG exporters within five years.

Beyond energy, Canada is seeking deeper cooperation with India in areas including critical minerals and aerospace.

Sidhu said Canada wants to be a reliable partner for India and emphasized that concluding a trade agreement would create new opportunities for Canadian businesses and workers in one of the world’s largest economies.

The fifth round of CEPA negotiations is therefore expected to focus on expanding market access and strengthening economic cooperation between Canada and India, with energy, critical minerals and other strategic sectors forming important areas of discussion.