India, Canada Stress Greater Cooperation in Edible Oils Sector

30-May-2026 03:40 PM

Toronto: An Indian delegation visiting Canada emphasized the need to strengthen bilateral trade and economic relations during a series of high-level meetings with Canadian officials.

India's Commerce and Industry Minister, Piyush Goyal, highlighted the importance of connecting Indian industries, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with opportunities in global markets. He stated that the Government of India remains committed to encouraging and facilitating more business delegation visits in the future. Canada is considered an important trading partner for India.

The Indian High Commissioner to Canada stressed that cooperation in the edible oils sector should be further strengthened and that industry delegations from both countries should continue to visit each other regularly. Such exchanges would help deepen cooperation and relationships among stakeholders across the entire value chain.

Suresh Nagpal, Chairman of the Central Organisation for Oil Industry and Trade (COOIT), was also part of the Indian business delegation that visited Canada from May 25 to 27, 2026.

India and Canada are currently discussing a proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). During meetings between representatives of the two countries, it was noted that canola oil could serve as a healthier alternative to palm oil in India, but it should not be viewed as a substitute for mustard oil.

Canada is the world's leading producer and exporter of canola, a high-quality variety of rapeseed, and canola oil.

Members of the Indian delegation emphasized that mustard is a cornerstone of India's oilseed economy and supports the livelihoods of millions of farmers. Therefore, safeguarding the interests of Indian oilseed producers must remain a top priority in any future trade agreement between the two countries.