The 7th Joint Committee Meeting under the India-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) concluded in Tokyo on March 2, marking a significant step toward deepening the strategic and economic ties between the two nations.

The session was co-chaired by India’s Commerce Secretary, Rajesh Agrawal, and Japan's Senior Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs.

The two delegations conducted a comprehensive review of the CEPA’s implementation and deliberated on innovative strategies to further strengthen bilateral engagement in an evolving global market.

On the sidelines of the committee meeting, Secretary Agrawal held high-level discussions with the Vice Minister of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).

During these talks, Agrawal highlighted the shared vision established by the leaders of both countries during the August 2025 Annual Summit, emphasizing the urgent need to diversify bilateral trade and investment.

He underscored the powerful synergy between Japan’s technological and capital strengths and India’s rapidly growing economy and skilled workforce.

A key point of the discussion was the necessity of harnessing the full benefits of the CEPA, particularly regarding the "movement of natural persons" as originally envisioned by the heads of state.

Addressing the trade balance, Agrawal pointed out the immense growth potential for Indian exports in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, agriculture, and services.

He stressed that achieving a more balanced trade relationship is vital for long-term sustainability.

The visit also featured a roundtable interaction with Japanese industry leaders and a "Trade and Investment Roadshow" organized by the Indian Embassy in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Keidanren.

These platforms were used to promote India's conducive policy environment and simplified regulatory processes, positioning the CEPA as a stable framework for tariff certainty.

Agrawal concluded by inviting Japanese firms to deepen their collaboration with India as trusted partners in global value and supply chains.

Source: ANI