India, Japan review CEPA implementation at 7th Joint Committee Meeting in Tokyo

The 7th Joint Committee Meeting under the India–Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement was held in Tokyo on March 2, with both sides reviewing the progress of the agreement and exploring ways to further strengthen bilateral economic cooperation.

The meeting was co-chaired by Rajesh Agrawal, Secretary in the Department of Commerce, Government of India, and Japan’s Senior Deputy Minister from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Discussions focused on issues related to the implementation of the agreement and opportunities to deepen trade and investment ties between the two countries.

On the sidelines of the meeting, Agrawal also held discussions with the Vice Minister of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI). The talks covered a range of issues including bilateral trade and investment, efforts to improve the business environment, and preparations for the upcoming ministerial conference of the World Trade Organization.

During the meeting, Agrawal referred to the shared vision outlined by the leaders of India and Japan during the annual summit held in August 2025. He said both countries should work towards enhancing and diversifying trade and investment relations.

Highlighting the complementary strengths of the two economies, he noted Japan’s capabilities in technology, capital and advanced manufacturing, and India’s skilled workforce, large domestic market and fast-growing economy. He also stressed the need to fully utilise the provisions of the CEPA, including those related to the movement of professionals between the two countries.

The Commerce Secretary pointed out that Indian exports have considerable scope to grow in the Japanese market, particularly in sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and services. He also underlined the need to move towards a more balanced bilateral trade relationship.

As part of the visit, Agrawal also interacted with representatives of leading Japanese companies during a roundtable meeting with industry leaders.

Later in the day, a Trade and Investment Roadshow was organised by the Embassy of India in Japan in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry and Keidanren. The event focused on promoting trade from India and encouraging greater investment from Japanese businesses.