Carney and Modi target Canada-India trade deal by year-end

Canada and India are accelerating negotiations to finalize a bilateral trade agreement by the end of 2026, led by Canadian Trade Minister Mary Ng and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The deal aims to boost economic ties, focusing on critical minerals, clean energy, and quantum technologies—sectors where both nations seek strategic partnerships amid global supply chain shifts. Talks follow Canada’s 2023 pause in trade discussions due to diplomatic tensions, now resumed with renewed urgency as both countries prioritize diversifying trade away from China-dependent markets. Key sticking points include tariff reductions on Canadian pulses and Indian pharmaceuticals, with quantum computing and AI collaboration emerging as potential breakthrough areas for mutual investment. If successful, the pact could position Canada as a gateway for Indian tech firms into North America, while India gains access to Canada’s advanced quantum research infrastructure.