India and Oman have successfully concluded negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), a major step forward in enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation. Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada confirmed the conclusion of talks in a written response to the Rajya Sabha, following a question from Congress member Hebi Mather Hisham regarding India’s trade agreements. However, the minister did not specify a date for the signing ceremony.
India and Oman share centuries-old ties rooted in mutual trust, respect, and cultural connections. Diplomatic relations, formally established in 1955, were elevated to a strategic partnership in 2008. Over the decades, trade and investment between the two nations have expanded steadily, reflecting their strong economic and political alignment.
In his reply, Prasada also highlighted India’s progress in strengthening global trade ties. Over the past five years, India has signed five major free trade agreements (FTAs). These include the India-Mauritius Comprehensive Economic Cooperation and Partnership Agreement (CECPA) in 2021, the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) in 2022, the India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) in 2024, and the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) signed in 2025, which is awaiting implementation.
The EFTA TEPA is expected to come into force later this year once all member states complete the ratification process. This agreement is anticipated to deepen India’s access to European markets and foster closer cooperation in trade, investment, and technology.
Looking ahead, India is engaged in discussions for several additional trade deals. These include the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (EU FTA), the India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA), the India-Sri Lanka Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement, as well as FTAs with Peru, Chile, and New Zealand. Furthermore, talks are underway for a bilateral trade pact with the United States, signaling New Delhi’s intent to broaden its global trade footprint.
The conclusion of CEPA negotiations with Oman underscores India’s commitment to building robust trade networks with key strategic partners while pursuing a diversified portfolio of agreements across continents.
