New Delhi is buzzing with optimism as the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) hails the renewed momentum in India-Canada ties, particularly the revival of talks on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Industry leaders predict this could catapult apparel exports to Canada to new heights.
AEPC Chairman Dr. A. Sakthivel stated that signing the CEPA could double apparel shipments to Canada within the next three years. Currently standing at around $250 million, this sector is poised for explosive growth, unlocking vast opportunities in investments and job creation.
“This framework will supercharge bilateral trade and reinvigorate investments on the bedrock of mutual economic strength,” Dr. Sakthivel emphasized. He highlighted how stronger relations would foster technology transfers, R&D collaborations, AI integration, and automation, enabling the industry to scale production and meet global standards more effectively.
The council welcomed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to India and his address at the CEO Forum alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic cooperation and advancing a mutually beneficial CEPA.
Beyond apparel, the partnership extends to sustainable energy. Dr. Sakthivel noted it positions India as an ethical sourcing hub. A key announcement was the ‘Strategic Energy Partnership,’ with Canadian firm Cameco set to supply 22 million pounds of uranium for India’s civilian nuclear reactors from 2027 to 2035.
Discussions also touched on restoring diplomatic staff levels and enhancing people-to-people ties through skill development and talent mobility. Recent diplomatic moves, including the appointment of Dinesh K. Patnaik as India’s High Commissioner to Canada, signal a balanced approach to normalizing relations post-Carney’s premiership.
A recent report links CEPA ambitions to doubling bilateral trade to over $70 billion by 2030, underscoring the transformative potential of this alliance for India’s export-driven apparel sector.