India and Canada target year-end trade deal ahead of PM Modi's planned December visit

What happened
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Canada in December, as both countries aim to finalize a trade deal by year-end. Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement are progressing swiftly, with the next round of talks starting October 5.
Why it matters
Finalizing the pact by year-end would establish clear legal and regulatory rules for cross-border commerce between India and Canada. For companies operating across both markets, binding commercial terms reduce regulatory uncertainty for long-term investments.
Bigger picture
The accelerated negotiations signal a renewed diplomatic and economic engagement between Ottawa and New Delhi, as both nations seek structured institutional ties to deepen long-term commercial links.
Watch next
Monitor the outcome of the trade negotiation round starting October 5 and subsequent updates on Prime Minister Modi's planned December visit.