India-Chile CEPA Talks Begin

On 30th May 2025, India and Chile completed the first round of negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), setting the stage for deeper bilateral trade and investment ties.

Key Points

Negotiations Launched: Talks began on May 26, 2025, following the signing of the Terms of Reference on May 8.
Inauguration: Led by India’s Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal, with Chilean Ambassador H.E. Juan Angulo in attendance.
Strategic Push: Builds on momentum from Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font’s State Visit to India in April 2025.
Focus Areas: Trade in goods & services, investments, strategic sectors, and economic cooperation.
Outcomes Expected: Stronger global value chains, more employment opportunities, and enhanced India-Chile trade volumes.
Next Steps: Virtual intersessional talks to address pending issues ahead of Round 2 in July–August 2025.
Inclusive Process: Both nations committed to industry and stakeholder consultations throughout negotiations.