India and Chile Target Conclusion of Comprehensive Trade Agreement Within the Year

India has reiterated its commitment to finalize negotiations for a comprehensive trade agreement with Chile before the end of the year, according to a statement released by the commerce ministry on Sunday. The proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) aims to strengthen economic ties, open new avenues for trade and investment, and foster cooperation in areas such as technology, talent, and resilient supply chains.

As part of the ongoing diplomatic and trade engagements, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal traveled to Santiago, Chile, to review the progress of the talks. During his visit, Agarwal met with Paula Estevez Weinstein, Vice-Minister of International Economic Relations for Chile, on August 26 to actively advance the negotiations.

The commerce ministry stated that the framework is intended to be balanced and mutually beneficial, delivering equitable and commercially meaningful outcomes for businesses in both nations. The successful conclusion of the CEPA is expected to provide further momentum to the bilateral trade and economic partnership.

During the discussions, the commerce secretary highlighted significant potential for enhanced economic cooperation across several key sectors. These include healthcare, pharmaceuticals, energy, minerals, agriculture, machinery, and engineering.

"Trade agreements like the proposed CEPA between India and Chile create vital frameworks that help businesses expand into international markets with greater confidence. For growing enterprises, particularly in sectors like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, engineering, and technology, formal trade pacts reduce market entry barriers and build more resilient supply chains. Concluding these negotiations within the year will offer cross-border predictability and open tangible commercial opportunities for businesses on both sides." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes