Toronto (Rajeev Sharma) : The Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce (CHCC) successfully hosted a landmark India–Canada Business Delegation and Executive Networking Evening in partnership with the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), India, on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at the Holiday Inn Toronto International Airport.
The high-level economic summit brought together prominent business leaders, policymakers, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and international trade executives, reaffirming a shared commitment to strengthening India–Canada economic relations and expanding bilateral cooperation.
The visiting delegation from PHDCCI arrived in Canada as part of an official trade mission aimed at deepening commercial engagement and advancing discussions around the proposed India–Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The discussions focused on unlocking new opportunities for cross-border collaboration in key sectors, including nuclear energy and mining, automation, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, trade finance, education, innovation, and investment partnerships.
Opening the event, CHCC President Maharshi Jani welcomed the delegation and outlined the Chamber’s strategic vision for growth and international engagement. He emphasized CHCC’s expanding national presence and its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs, professionals, and businesses across Canada. “CHCC has evolved into a truly Pan-Canadian organization representing a diverse range of industries and business sectors. We remain committed to fostering international trade collaboration, investment opportunities, youth leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and long-term economic partnerships between Canada and India,” said Jani.
Representing the visiting delegation, Dr. Anirudh Gupta, CEO of DCM Group of Schools, Chairman of the Global Edupreneurs Alliance, and Chair of the Education and Skills Committee of PHDCCI, addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of long-term collaboration between the two nations. “The future vision of India–Canada relations must be one of deeper economic engagement, greater innovation-led cooperation, and stronger people-to-people connections,” Dr. Gupta said. He also underscored India’s rapid economic growth and reaffirmed PHDCCI’s 121-year legacy in promoting trade, industry, and global partnerships. Dr. Gupta was accompanied by a 12-member delegation from PHDCCI, reflecting the strategic importance of the Canadian market.
The event also featured remarks from senior diplomatic and political representatives. Kapidhwaj Pratap Singh, Deputy Consul General of India in Toronto, highlighted the importance of strengthening trade diplomacy and expanding bilateral economic cooperation.
Honourable Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines, addressed the gathering, emphasizing Ontario’s strong economic foundation, investment potential, and commitment to global partnerships. He noted the province’s continued efforts to attract international investors and strengthen innovation led growth. Minister Lecce also referenced his upcoming visit to India to further enhance economic cooperation. In a special message to CHCC, he stated:
“It is a pleasure to send you best wishes and warmest congratulations on another successful event with the Indo-Canadian business community. Thank you for your outstanding efforts in fostering economic cooperation, business leadership, and cultural understanding.”
Member of Provincial Parliament Deepak Anand highlighted Ontario’s dynamic business ecosystem and facilitated the presentation of mementos to delegation leaders and distinguished guests in recognition of their contributions to strengthening bilateral relations. The evening concluded with an interactive B2B networking session, followed by a premium networking reception featuring traditional vegetarian cuisine, hosted at the Holiday Inn Toronto International Airport.
Rakesh Kantaria of CHCC, sharing details with National Times Media Group, said the strong response from business and policy leaders reflected the growing potential of the India–Canada partnership. He noted that the CHCC–PHDCCI collaboration created a powerful platform for dialogue, networking, and exploration of new opportunities in trade, investment, innovation, and education. He added that such initiatives will play a key role in advancing CEPA discussions and strengthening long-term economic cooperation between India and Canada.
The successful conclusion of the event reaffirmed the shared commitment of CHCC and PHDCCI to deepening economic engagement, fostering innovation-led partnerships, and building sustainable bilateral growth. The Toronto summit highlighted the growing importance of business diplomacy in shaping a stronger and more connected future between India and Canada.
