Business · India Bureau
Canada-India trade talks focus on professional mobility in latest round
Canada and India are negotiating the movement of skilled professionals as part of their broader Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) discussions. The two nations are working to finalize outstanding issues and clinch the agreement by November.
LSN India ·
The sixth round of negotiations between Canada and India under their proposed CEPA framework is addressing key provisions related to the cross-border movement of professionals, marking significant progress in bilateral trade discussions. The inclusion of professional mobility clauses reflects both nations' recognition of the importance of talent flow in a modern economic partnership.
Both delegations are focused on resolving remaining contentious issues to enable a conclusion of negotiations within the targeted November timeframe. The professional services provisions are expected to facilitate easier movement of Indian workers to Canada and vice versa, benefiting sectors ranging from information technology to healthcare.
The CEPA, once finalized, would constitute one of the most comprehensive trade agreements between India and a developed nation. The pact aims to boost bilateral commerce, enhance investment flows, and strengthen economic ties across multiple sectors including goods, services, and digital trade.
India has been seeking greater market access for its services sector and skilled workers, while Canada has prioritized commitments on goods trade and investment protection. Negotiators from both sides have indicated optimism about reaching a final agreement, subject to successful resolution of outstanding technical and commercial matters in the coming weeks.