Are Chile and India on the Verge of Finalizing an Economic Partnership Agreement?
Synopsis
India and Chile are on the brink of finalizing a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) that promises to elevate trade and investment between the two nations. Ambassador Juan Angulo revealed that extensive negotiations have already taken place, highlighting the growing economic ties and collaborative efforts in various sectors.
Key Takeaways
CEPA negotiations are nearing completion.
Four rounds of talks have been held successfully.
The agreement aims to boost bilateral trade and investments.
Collaboration extends to agriculture and technology sectors.
Future cooperation opportunities in various fields exist.
New Delhi, Jan 12 (NationPress) Chile and India are nearing the completion of a bilateral comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA), having successfully concluded four rounds of discussions, as stated by Juan Angulo, Chile’s Ambassador, on Monday.
The proposed agreement aims to enhance bilateral trade, investments, and services, according to the Ambassador during his conversation with IANS.
"We are optimistic that the CEPA negotiations will lead to a greater presence of Chilean and Indian companies and industries regarding investments," he remarked.
The decision to initiate this CEPA was made following a meeting between Chile’s President Gabriel Boric and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi in April 2025.
"I formalized the terms of reference in May, and shortly after, we held our first round of negotiations in Santiago. Following that, we completed three additional rounds, culminating in the fourth round of negotiations very recently," the Ambassador detailed.
"We anticipate concluding this process soon, during the final round of negotiations," he added.
Currently, India and Chile maintain a preferential trade agreement, and the CEPA is expected to herald a new phase in their economic interactions.
The Ambassador emphasized that Chile has been actively seeking to strengthen its ties with India across various sectors.
"While the commercial aspect is significant for the CEPA, we have also established a memorandum of understanding in agriculture a few years ago, focusing on information exchange and technology transfer. Working groups are convening in this area," he mentioned.
Additionally, Angulo noted that an agreement has been signed for cooperation in science and technology, with opportunities for collaboration in the startup ecosystem — a mutual area of interest.
"We have also entered into an agreement concerning Antarctica, aiming to enhance scientific research collaboration between our nations. Numerous areas for future cooperation exist," he stated.
The Ambassador expressed satisfaction over India’s efforts to strengthen its relationship with the EU.
"At the end of this month, EU leaders will attend the Republic Day celebrations. There are indications that the free trade agreement between India and the EU might be finalized soon. We are aligned in promoting trade agreements," he concluded.
Point of View
It is crucial to acknowledge the significance of the emerging economic partnership between India and Chile. This potential CEPA not only promises to enhance trade but also fosters cooperation across several sectors, reflecting a growing trend of global collaboration that benefits both nations. Such agreements are vital in today's interconnected world.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CEPA between India and Chile?
The CEPA, or Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, is a bilateral agreement aimed at enhancing trade, investment, and services between India and Chile.
When did the negotiations for CEPA begin?
Negotiations for the CEPA started after a meeting between Chile’s President Gabriel Boric and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 2025.
What sectors will the CEPA impact?
The CEPA is expected to impact various sectors, including trade, investments, agriculture, and technology.
How many rounds of negotiations have taken place?
There have been four rounds of negotiations completed on the CEPA between India and Chile.
What other areas are Chile and India collaborating on?
Besides the CEPA, Chile and India are collaborating in agriculture, science and technology, and even Antarctic research.
