India and Canada opened the fifth round of talks for their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in Ottawa on October 5. The round, running through October 9, aims to move the two countries closer to a deal that could lift bilateral trade from $30.4 billion in 2025 to a targeted $70 billion by 2030.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is leading the Indian side, with Canadian Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu across the table. Pulses, potash fertilisers, and visa access for Indian professionals are among the key sticking points, according to officials familiar with the talks.

The negotiations mark a reset in ties after a diplomatic chill. Both sides see a trade deal as a way to cut tariffs, open services markets, and secure supply chains for critical minerals and farm goods. Business groups in both countries have pushed for an early conclusion. With five rounds done, officials say the political will now exists to close the remaining gaps in the coming months.