Indonesia and Canada Target Implementation of ICA-CEPA in Second Half of 2026
Montreal: The Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Canada, Muhsin Syihab, is pushing for the implementation of the Indonesia-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (ICA-CEPA) to be realised as soon as possible in the second half of 2026.
The statement was delivered at the Indonesia-Canada Business Meeting organised by the Indonesian Embassy in Ottawa in Montreal, coinciding with the Salon International de l’Alimentation (SIAL) Canada 2026.
“This agreement is expected to significantly facilitate business activities between Indonesia and Canada, open up broader export opportunities for Indonesian products, and encourage Canadian investment in Indonesia,” said Muhsin, in a statement from the Indonesian Embassy in Ottawa quoted by Antara on Saturday, 2 May 2026.
The business forum, attended by more than 100 business actors from both countries, served as a strategic platform to connect key business sectors, including food and beverages, financial services, energy, and the creative industry.
The event leveraged the momentum of SIAL Canada 2026, which took place from 29 April to 1 May at the Palais des Congrès de Montréal. Indonesia participated through the Indonesia Pavilion, showcasing various national flagship products.
ICA-CEPA
ICA-CEPA was signed during President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to Ottawa, Canada, in September 2025. Muhsin emphasised that the agreement is expected to be a primary driver in increasing bilateral trade while expanding Indonesia’s market access to Canada and the North American region.
Support also came from Canadian parliament member Yasir Naqvi, who views ICA-CEPA as a model for Canada’s strategic partnerships with Indo-Pacific countries.
Business actors from both nations have responded positively to the development and hope that ratification can be completed soon.
Several participants even reported follow-up business commitments established during the forum.
According to Ambassador Muhsin, the event is part of the economic diplomacy efforts of the Indonesian Embassy in Ottawa to strengthen trade, investment, and the promotion of Indonesia’s flagship products in the Canadian market.
The event was also complemented by presentations on Indonesian business opportunities, the national macroeconomic situation, and the promotion of Trade Expo Indonesia 2026.