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May 12, 2023 7:56 PM - The Canadian Press

Ng announces India trade mission, pledges a limited deal within months

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The two countries are negotiating a possible agreement that is limited to certain sectors, instead of a comprehensive deal that covers most of the economy. (Photo: The Canadian Press)

Trade Minister Mary Ng says it is "not going to be years" before Canada and India sign some form of trade agreement, more than a decade after negotiations began.

Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal visited Ottawa and Toronto this week, where he told media that New Delhi wants to vastly increase its trade with Canada.

The two countries are negotiating a possible agreement that is limited to certain sectors, instead of a comprehensive deal that covers most of the economy.

Industry groups have been urging Canada to push for a deal to be signed this year, but a former Canadian envoy to India, Nadir Patel, says a deadline would likely make it harder for both sides to feel like they reached a fair agreement.

Ng has also announced that she will be leading a trade mission to India this October, possibly with provincial representatives.

The Asia-Pacific Foundation says Canada could benefit from India's booming population by selling more produce, chemicals, wood products and minerals.

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