India and Chile are in the final stages of negotiating a social security agreement, aimed at facilitating professionals to work across borders and fostering increased investments between the two nations. The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) talks between India and Chile commenced in May 2025, with multiple rounds held since then. The recent fourth round of discussions concluded in December 2025, with ongoing intersessional talks to address pending issues before the next round.
In a recent statement, the Commerce Ministry highlighted the mutual commitment of India and Chile to swiftly conclude the CEPA negotiations, emphasizing the strategic importance of enhancing bilateral economic relations. The agreement is expected to significantly enhance bilateral trade, promote economic collaboration, expand market access, and create fresh business opportunities for enterprises in both countries. The fourth round of negotiations for the India-Chile CEPA was finalized on December 9.
During the third round of India-Chile CEPA negotiations held in Santiago, Chile, discussions encompassed various key areas including Trade in Goods and Services, Investment Promotion, Rules of Origin, Intellectual Property Rights, TBT/ SPS measures, Economic Cooperation, and Critical Minerals. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) disclosed that India urged Chile to explore long-term agreements for the supply of mineral resources, aiming to diversify bilateral relations into new and emerging sectors such as Digital Public Infrastructure, innovation, and green energy.
Furthermore, India recently concluded a free trade agreement (FTA) with New Zealand, offering New Zealanders unprecedented access to the vast Indian consumer market. This landmark FTA eliminates or reduces tariffs on 95% of New Zealand’s exports, with a substantial portion becoming duty-free immediately and rising to 82% upon full implementation, while the remaining 13% will undergo significant tariff reductions.
