India and Chile are in the final stages of negotiating a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA), with four rounds of talks completed, as per Chile’s Ambassador, Juan Angulo. The CEPA aims to enhance bilateral trade, investments, and services between the two countries. Ambassador Angulo expressed optimism about attracting more companies and industries from Chile and India through these negotiations.
The decision to pursue a CEPA was made during a meeting between Chile’s President, Gabriel Boric, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi in April 2025. Following the signing of the terms of reference in May, negotiations began promptly in Santiago, progressing through three subsequent rounds to the recent completion of the fourth round.
India and Chile currently have a preferential trade agreement in place, and the forthcoming CEPA is expected to mark a new chapter in their economic ties. The Ambassador highlighted Chile’s efforts across various sectors to strengthen its relationship with India, including collaborations in agriculture, science, technology, startups, and Antarctic research.
Ambassador Angulo also commended India’s growing engagement with the European Union, noting the potential finalization of a free trade agreement between the two entities. He emphasized the shared commitment to fostering trade agreements, with upcoming EU leaders’ participation in India’s Republic Day celebrations signaling further cooperation.
