If you’re looking to diversify your exports, India offers an increasing number of opportunities across a wide range of sectors. Exploring where your products, services or expertise fit begins with understanding the scale of the market and what it takes to do business there.
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With a GDP of roughly $5.5 trillion, India is one of the world’s fastest-growing major economies. Canadian goods exports to India totaled $3.9 billion in 2025 - with total bilateral trade in goods and services at more than $30 billion - reflecting an established trading relationship that businesses like yours can build on provided you are well prepared.
Canada and India share nearly 80 years of diplomatic relations and a commitment to a free, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Growing trade and investment ties reinforce India’s role in Canada’s efforts to diversify internationally.
If you are considering India, understanding the market’s complexity is as important as recognizing its potential. Significant regional differences, a complex regulatory environment and evolving market conditions require thorough research and careful planning to find success. Building strong local partnerships takes sustained engagement, so plan time and resources for developing these relationships as part of your long-term commitment. With seven trade offices across India, our Trade Commissioners can help you understand the business landscape and connect with qualified contacts as you prepare your approach.
Canada and India are strengthening their bilateral relationship through a renewed partnership focused on trade and investment, security and defence cooperation climate and energy, science and technology, agriculture, and people-to-people ties. The roadmap announced by both countries’ foreign ministers in October 2025 guides these efforts.
Both countries have committed to concluding negotiations on a Canada–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2026. The proposed agreement would improve market access and support Canada’s goal of doubling bilateral trade with India to $70 billion by 2030.
For Canadian businesses, a CEPA with India is expected to ease market access through reduced tariffs and create new opportunities across traditional industries and emerging sectors, including services, digital trade and telecommunications.
To further help Canadian businesses explore the Indian market, we will be on-the-ground at the Team Canada Trade Mission to India from October 12 to 17, 2026. Through business briefings, networking and sector-specific activities, participating companies will be able to showcase their capabilities, connect with local business leaders, and pursue trade and investment opportunities.
India’s rapid urbanization, expanding manufacturing base and growing digital economy are driving demand across a wide range of sectors. From food ingredients to advanced technologies, you can explore opportunities that align with your strengths.
Rising incomes and changing consumer preferences are increasing demand for safe, high-quality food in India. Pulses remain Canada’s largest agri-food export to the country, but opportunities extend to value-added foods, specialty crops, food ingredients and plant proteins. Local preferences and market-access requirements are important considerations for India's agri-food industry. Read more about India’s agri-food sector.
India’s energy demand is projected to more than double by 2040, creating opportunities in renewable power, energy storage and battery supply chains. The country’s focus on energy security and its transition to a lower-carbon economy are also shaping demand. Urbanization and industrial growth offer further opportunities for Canadian water and wastewater treatment, waste management and environmental technologies. Read more about India's cleantech sector.
India’s growing healthcare needs and investment in healthcare infrastructure align with Canadian strengths in medical technologies and biopharmaceuticals. Its medical technology sector remains heavily reliant on imported diagnostic equipment, surgical instruments and high-end imaging technologies, creating openings for Canadian suppliers. Explore opportunities for research and commercial collaboration in biologics, vaccines and advanced therapeutics. Read more about India’s life sciences sector.
India’s digital transformation is driving demand for cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and semiconductor technologies. The country already hosts research and design centers operated by major global semiconductor firms. You can contribute specialized solutions and pursue joint research, co-development and commercialization partnerships that bring together Canadian innovation and India’s engineering talent. Read more about India’s ICT sector.
India’s growing cities and expanding middle class are increasing demand for wood used in furniture, interiors and construction. With domestic timber supplies and traditional species becoming less available, manufacturers are seeking alternative, sustainable fibre sources. This creates openings for Canadian lumber and engineered wood suppliers, alongside opportunities in India’s established market for Canadian pulp and paper products. Read more about India’s forestry and wood products market.
India’s expanding aviation market and defence modernization are creating opportunities in aerospace manufacturing, simulation, training and sustainment. Its space sector, projected to reach US$44 billion by 2033, also offers potential for Canadian satellite, communications and geospatial technologies. You can explore partnerships and opportunities to become part of Indian supply chains. Read more about India’s aerospace and space market.
With a presence in more than 160 cities worldwide, we can help you do business with the world. Our network of Trade Commissioners across Canada and on the ground in India can help you prepare, assess your market potential, and connect you with local partners, service providers, and industry stakeholders.
Visit our Do business in India page to explore available resources and learn more about preparing to do business in the market.
If you want to grow your international presence, you can also explore our guidance on how to diversify your exports, which outlines practical steps for expanding into new markets and reducing export concentration risk.
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