India and Canada are lining up a series of high-level engagements in the coming weeks aimed at rebuilding economic ties and advancing stalled trade negotiations, according to officials.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to travel to New Delhi in March, with discussions likely to cover uranium supply, critical minerals, energy cooperation and emerging technologies.
The proposed visit is expected to be preceded by a possible trip by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal to Canada in the third week of February. Officials familiar with the planning said the visit would focus on accelerating discussions on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Officials said trade negotiators are working in parallel with sectoral ministries on energy, minerals and technology as part of efforts to restore momentum in the bilateral economic relationship.
One of the outcomes under discussion is a long-term uranium supply arrangement to support India’s civilian nuclear energy programme. Talks are also underway on broader cooperation frameworks covering energy transition and downstream collaboration.
Critical minerals have emerged as another area of focus, with Canada indicating interest in partnering with India on minerals used in clean energy, electric mobility and advanced manufacturing.
Artificial intelligence and advanced digital technologies are also expected to feature in discussions, including cooperation on research ecosystems, talent mobility and industrial applications.
CEPA negotiations were first launched in 2010 and saw several rounds before stalling. While talks were formally relaunched in 2022, progress slowed amid diplomatic strains. Officials said the negotiations are now back on the agenda, with the possibility of an interim roadmap.
India’s High Commissioner to Canada has said publicly that a trade agreement could be achievable within a year if negotiations proceed without disruption. CEPA is expected to cover goods, services, investment, digital trade and movement of skilled professionals.
Bilateral trade in goods and services stood at around C$31 billion in 2024. Officials said recent ministerial-level exchanges indicate a renewed effort by both sides to re-engage on energy and trade dialogues.
