Piyush Goyal Holds Trade Talks With France, Canada, Saudi Arabia and South Korea

India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal held a series of trade talks with counterparts from France, Canada, Saudi Arabia and South Korea on the sidelines of the G20 Trade Ministers’ Meeting in Milwaukee. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral trade, advancing free trade agreements, improving market access and attracting manufacturing investment into India.

India-France trade and investment cooperation

During discussions with France, Goyal explored opportunities to expand trade and investment ties between the two countries. The talks also covered efforts to accelerate the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement and increase cooperation in aerospace manufacturing in India.

The two sides also discussed UPI integration and joint innovation initiatives, with further engagement expected during a proposed visit by the French minister to India later this year.

India-Canada CEPA negotiations

Goyal also reviewed negotiations for the India-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. The agreement is aimed at expanding bilateral trade and strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.

The negotiations are focused on reaching an early conclusion while creating greater opportunities for businesses in both markets. India and Canada have set an objective of taking bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030.

Talks with Saudi Arabia and South Korea

Discussions with Saudi Arabia focused on progress in negotiations for an India-Gulf Cooperation Council free trade agreement. Both sides also explored opportunities to expand trade and investment cooperation.

With South Korea, Goyal discussed upgrading the India-Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement and promoting balanced growth in bilateral trade. Market access for Indian agricultural, pharmaceutical and marine products was also discussed.

The meeting further covered opportunities for Korean manufacturing companies to expand investment in India.

The discussions with all four countries come as India seeks to deepen international trade partnerships, expand access for domestic producers and attract investment into manufacturing and other strategic sectors.