Notice of intent to initiate negotiations toward a Canada-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA)

Dear Members of Parliament:

In accordance with the enhanced transparency requirements set out in the amended Policy on Tabling of Treaties in Parliament, I am pleased to notify the House of Commons of the government’s intent to initiate negotiations toward a Canada-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The Government of Canada intends to commence negotiations with India no earlier than 90 days from the date of this notice.

The Government of Canada is committed to advancing international trade and investment opportunities in order to drive economic growth and create good jobs for Canadians. Accordingly, Canada is working to strengthen trade with reliable partners around the world, and to double Canadian exports to non-U.S. markets in the next decade, which will generate $300 billion more in trade. By pursuing bilateral negotiations with India, the Government of Canada will accelerate Canada’s growing trade ties with this partner and the region, consistent with Canada’s focus on reliable partnerships and predictable, rules-based trade.

The Government of Canada will soon initiate public consultations. Canadians will be invited, via a Canada Gazette notice and publication on the Global Affairs Canada webpage, to submit their views on a potential Canada-India CEPA and related economic, social, and environmental impacts. Through this process, businesses, non-governmental organizations, and individual Canadians will provide input and feedback.

In accordance with the Policy on Tabling of Treaties in Parliament, Canada’s negotiating objectives for a Canada-India CEPA will be tabled in the House of Commons no later than 30 days before Canada commences negotiations with India. Should CEPA negotiations be successfully concluded, the government will also table the final agreement and an accompanying economic impact assessment in the House of Commons.

I look forward to working closely and transparently with Parliament in advance of and throughout the negotiations for a Canada-India CEPA.

Sincerely,

The Honourable Maninder Sidhu, P.C., M.P.

November 24, 2025