Source: The Hindu
Context: India and Canada reaffirmed their commitment to conclude negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of 2026.
Key Features
| Key Feature | Main Points |
|---|---|
| CEPA by 2026 | Conclude negotiations by year-end 2026 |
| Trade Expansion | Increase bilateral trade to about CAD 70 billion by 2030 |
| Investment Protection | Begin BIT negotiations for greater investor certainty and protection |
| Digital Payments & Fintech | Cooperation in UPI, remittances, fintech, capital markets, financial stability & financial crime prevention |
| Strategic Investments | Focus on critical minerals, AI, technology, infrastructure, energy & resilient supply chains, with greater Canadian institutional and pension fund participation |
What CEPA Is
- A broad trade and economic agreement aimed at:
- Liberalising trade
- Promoting investment
- Strengthening financial and commercial ties
- Aim: expand bilateral trade and investment, reduce trade barriers, deepen financial cooperation, and create a predictable framework for businesses and investors.
