The Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce (CHCC) proudly announced the launch of its 2026 Trade Mission to India (Bharat) at a high-profile media briefing hosted at ICICI Bank Canada’s headquarters in Toronto. With more than 70 business leaders, dignitaries, and media representatives in attendance, the event marked one of CHCC’s strongest trade-mission kickoffs to date, underscoring the Chamber’s growing influence in advancing Canada–India economic ties.
The 2026 Trade Mission will visit Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Chandigarh (Punjab & Haryana), Delhi, and Himachal Pradesh, opening new pathways for Canadian businesses across technology, education, clean energy, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and investment facilitation.
Leadership Sets the Tone for a Strong Mission Year
The program opened with Vice President Maharshi Jani, who welcomed dignitaries and media partners, highlighting CHCC’s expanding footprint and the success of previous missions. His remarks set an optimistic tone for the Chamber’s continued role in strengthening Canada–India economic cooperation.
CHCC President Kushagr Dutt Sharma outlined the Chamber’s global strategy and introduced the mission leadership team:
· 2026 Trade Mission Chair – Dr. Rakesh Kantaria
· India–Canada Trade Committee Chair – Mr. Hemant Shah
· 2026 Trade Mission Co-Chair – Mr. Amit Chowdhury
“India continues to be one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, and Canadian businesses cannot afford to miss the opportunity,” said CHCC President Kushagr Sharma. “This mission provides a direct bridge between Canadian entrepreneurs and India’s most promising sectors.”
Dr. Rakesh Kantaria expanded on the mission’s objectives, emphasizing the growing demand for Canadian expertise in India’s innovation-driven sectors and expressing gratitude to sponsors and partners for their longstanding support.
Government and Institutional Leaders Endorse the Mission
A significant moment came with the remarks from MPP Deepak Anand, who addressed the gathering on behalf of the Government of Ontario. He lauded CHCC’s leadership in fostering bilateral trade and formally announced the 2026 Trade Mission in the Ontario Legislative Assembly, reflecting strong provincial endorsement.
Adding to the momentum, Mr. Himadri Maddipatla, President & CEO of ICICI Bank Canada, welcomed the delegates and reaffirmed ICICI Bank’s commitment to supporting cross-border commerce and Indo-Canadian business growth.
The event also featured a keynote address by the Consul General of India in Toronto, Mr. Kapidhwaj Singh, who praised the mission’s alignment with India’s economic priorities and Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy. He highlighted the mission as a timely catalyst for deepening trade, investment, and innovation ties.
A Unified Commitment and a Strong Closing
The event drew widespread media engagement, with journalists examining opportunities in digital transformation, supply-chain resilience, clean technologies, advanced manufacturing, and agriculture.
To conclude the program, Immediate Past President Naresh Chavda delivered a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, recognizing sponsors, volunteers, media partners, and mission delegates for contributing to a successful launch and reinforcing CHCC’s reputation as a national leader in bilateral trade facilitation.
About CHCC
The Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening economic, cultural, and strategic partnerships between Canada and global markets. The Chamber leads international trade missions, inter-provincial business delegations, and hosts the annual Invest India – Invest Canada Summit, one of the country’s premier bilateral business forums.
