India and Japan Strengthen Economic Ties in 7th CEPA Joint Meeting
India and Japan held their 7th Joint Committee Meeting (JCM) under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in Tokyo on 2 March 2026. The talks focused on addressing trade imbalances and expanding cooperation beyond traditional sectors. Both nations aimed to strengthen economic ties by leveraging their complementary strengths.
The meeting was co-chaired by Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Secretary of India's Department of Commerce, and Japan's Senior Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs. Their discussions built on the shared vision set during the August 2025 Annual Summit, which called for diversifying trade and investment flows.
India highlighted its potential as a manufacturing hub for Japanese firms seeking to de-risk supply chains. A Trade and Investment Roadshow was organised to attract more Japanese capital, showcasing India's large market, skilled workforce, and rapid economic growth. Japan, in turn, emphasised its advanced technology and high-end manufacturing capabilities as key assets for collaboration. The Indian delegation stressed the need for a more balanced trade relationship, targeting sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and IT services. Mobility for professionals also became a priority, following commitments made at the 2025 Leaders' Summit. Shri Agrawal noted that CEPA's tariff certainty and regulatory stability reinforce India's role as a reliable partner in global supply chains.
The meeting concluded with a focus on deepening economic ties through targeted trade expansion and investment facilitation. Both countries agreed to explore new opportunities in emerging sectors while ensuring a more sustainable and diversified partnership. The outcomes will guide future cooperation under the CEPA framework.
