Advancing Economic Partnership: Highlights from the 7th India–Japan CEPA Joint Committee Meeting in Tokyo

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Dated: 05.03.2026

Advancing Economic Partnership: Highlights from the 7th India–Japan CEPA Joint Committee Meeting in Tokyo

The 7th Joint Committee Meeting under the India–Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) took place on March 2, 2026, in Tokyo, Japan. This significant event was co-chaired by Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Secretary, Department of Commerce, Government of India, and the Senior Deputy Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Japan. The meeting marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to deepen economic collaboration between the two nations.

Key Discussions and Outcomes 

During the meeting, both sides reviewed the implementation of CEPA and explored avenues to further strengthen bilateral economic engagement. The discussions revolved around enhancing trade and investment, improving the business environment, and preparing for the upcoming 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Shri Rajesh Agrawal emphasized the shared vision of India and Japan, as articulated during the Annual Summit in August 2025. He highlighted the need to diversify and balance bilateral trade and investment, leveraging the unique strengths of both economies. Japan’s expertise in technology, capital, and advanced manufacturing complements India’s skilled workforce, large market, and rapidly growing economy. Shri Agrawal stressed the importance of fully utilizing CEPA’s benefits, including the movement of natural persons, as envisioned during the Leaders’ Summit.

Opportunities for Growth in Indian Exports 

The Commerce Secretary underscored the immense potential for growth in Indian exports to Japan, particularly in sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and services. He also emphasized the importance of achieving a balanced trade relationship to ensure long-term sustainability and mutual benefit.

Engagements with Japanese Industry Leaders 

On the sidelines of the meeting, Shri Agrawal met with the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) to discuss a wide range of issues, including bilateral trade and investment. He also participated in a roundtable interaction with leading representatives of Japanese industry, fostering dialogue on enhancing trade and investment flows.

Trade and Investment Roadshow 

In the evening, the Embassy of India in Japan, in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Keidanren, organized a Trade and Investment Roadshow. The event focused on promoting trade from India and encouraging greater investment from Japanese companies. Shri Agrawal highlighted India’s conducive policy environment for trade and investment, including measures to improve ease of doing business and simplify regulatory processes.

During the roadshow, Shri Agrawal engaged in a fireside chat with Dr. Yamada of Nikkei Asia, discussing the future of India–Japan economic relations. He emphasized that CEPA provides a stable framework for tariff certainty and regulatory predictability, fostering a facilitative environment for deeper collaboration between the two nations as trusted partners in global value and supply chains.

A Step Forward in India–Japan Relations 

The 7th India–Japan CEPA Joint Committee Meeting and the associated events in Tokyo reaffirmed the commitment of both nations to strengthen their economic partnership. By leveraging their respective strengths and addressing challenges, India and Japan are poised to unlock the full potential of their bilateral trade and investment relationship.

This meeting serves as a testament to the shared vision of the two countries and their determination to work together as strategic partners in the global economy. With a focus on diversification, balanced trade, and mutual growth, the India–Japan partnership is set to reach new heights in the years to come.

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Source: Ministry of Commerce & Industry

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