Trade Minister Seeks to Secure Canada's Place in India Free Trade Pact

Canada's International Trade Minister emphasizes the urgency of finalizing a free trade agreement with India, aiming to capitalize on India's economic growth. Negotiations, previously stalled due to diplomatic tensions, have gained momentum with optimism for an agreement by year's end.

Canada's International Trade Minister, Maninder Sidhu, underscored the importance of concluding a free trade agreement with India, emphasizing India's trajectory toward becoming the world's third-largest economy. He stressed the need for Canadian businesses to seize new opportunities in sectors where Canada excels, such as technology and agriculture.

During the Western Canada-India Leaders Summit in Regina, optimism was shared by officials from both nations about the negotiations moving forward. Talks had stalled amid diplomatic tensions in 2023, but renewed efforts are underway, with hopes for an agreement by the end of the year. This renewed momentum follows high-level visits and engagements, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's trip to India.