In the submission, CFA highlighted several structural issues in India’s agricultural system that could limit benefits for Canadian exporters and impede market access regardless of tariffs:
- High tariffs and non‑tariff barriers on many agri‑food products
- Strong government intervention, such as price supports and export controls
- Unpredictable policy shifts affecting import demand
- Regulatory differences in inspection, certification, and SPS measures
It noted that while India is the world’s largest consumer of pulses, Canada faces 10–44% tariffs on key pulse crops, and market access to India has historically been disrupted by sudden restriction or administrative hurdles.
CFA urged the federal government to take a pragmatic, risk‑informed approach to any CEPA with India by:
- Prioritizing risk management and supply chain resilience
- Fully protecting sensitive agricultural sectors
- Strengthening SPS and biosecurity safeguards
- Ensuring enforceable commitments and fair dispute settlement
- Maintaining close engagement with farmers throughout negotiations