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Export Docs
Trade India-EU FTA Breakthrough Driven by Realism, Pragmatism, Says EU Ambassador
The EU Ambassador told ANI that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement breakthrough was driven by realism and pragmatism, with negotiations concluded in a little over a year after gaining momentum from 2025. He said CBAM would primarily affect Indian steel and iron exports, and that low-emission steelmakers could benefit. The FTA is expected to be signed within less than a year, supported by parallel cooperation on investment protection and technology.
Trade India seeks review and expansion of 15-year-old free trade pact with Japan
India on Wednesday reiterated its demand for a review of the 15-year-old Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with Japan and signalled willingness to expand the pact's scope, Business-Today reported. Bilateral trade stands at $27.5 billion, with India's trade deficit widening to $15.5 billion from $11 billion in 2022-23.
Trade India, Japan Working to Expand Scope of Trade Pact, Piyush Goyal Says
India and Japan are working to expand the scope of their 15-year-old CEPA, Minister Piyush Goyal said. Two-way commerce grew 9.18 per cent to USD 27.47 billion in 2025-26, while the trade deficit widened to USD 15.4 billion.
Trade Trump Tariffs Fail to Dent India's Export Dependence on US; Share Stays Near 20%
The US remains India's largest export market at roughly 20% of shipments despite tariff rates peaking at 50%. Exports to the US reached $88.5 billion in the 12 months through July, while New Delhi accelerates FTA negotiations to diversify trade.
Trade India's exports to US hold firm after a year of Trump's tariffs
US tariffs peaked at 50% on Indian goods before falling to 10%, yet the US still accounts for about 20% of India's exports. India signed trade deals with the UK, EU, Oman and New Zealand to diversify, while exports to China surged 42%.
Trade US-Canada tariff row eases: Trump pauses 50% levies after last-minute deal
The US and Canada reached a last-minute deal Tuesday, prompting President Donald Trump to pause planned 50% tariffs on $20 billion of Canadian imports for three days. The tariffs, based on Section 338 of the US Tariff Act of 1930, would have hit about 5% of Canadian exports. Broader negotiations continue under the USMCA, with Ottawa seeking relief on steel, aluminium and softwood lumber.
Trade India's Tanker Exports Surge Over Six-Fold to USD 1.36 Billion in Q1 FY27; UAE Leads
India's tanker exports grew more than six-fold to USD 1.36 billion in Q1 FY27 (April-June 2026-27), with the UAE emerging as the top destination. Export volumes rose from 10 to 23 vessels, and new markets including Egypt, South Africa, and Vietnam received first-time shipments.
Trade India Seeks WTO Consultations With US Over 50% Tariff-Rate Quota on Quartz Surfaces
India has approached the WTO for consultations with the US over a new tariff-rate quota of up to 50% on quartz surface product imports. The move follows India's $380 million in exports in FY26 and marks the fourth such consultation case with Washington.
Trade India’s FTAs give MSMEs a shot at bigger global markets, exporters say
Exporters say India’s free trade agreements give MSMEs preferential market access across major economies, with the real opportunity lying in converting these pacts into export orders. Prime Minister Modi said India has finalised FTAs with about 40 countries since 2014, urging small enterprises to tap the opportunities.
Trade India’s engineering exports surge to $13.77 billion, Niti Aayog calls for regulation
India's engineering services exports grew to $13.77 billion in 2024-25 from $1.77 billion in 2014-15, according to a Niti Aayog report, a CAGR of 22.8%. The report also highlighted the absence of a proper regulatory framework for engineers and proposed a central statutory framework for those in construction and infrastructure activities.
Trade US report names India among 41 countries enabling Chinese goods to bypass tariffs
A US report titled 'The Great Transshipment Scam' authored by Peter Navarro classified India and 40 other countries as enablers of Chinese tariff evasion. The report estimated $67 billion in US-bound goods were trans-shipped through Mexico, India, and Vietnam in 2025, costing $28 billion in lost tariff revenue. It named India's Pune-Gujarat-Chennai belt among 'Ugly Sister City pairs' enabling the practice.
Trade India’s FTA Exports Surge as Shipments to Singapore and Sri Lanka More Than Double
India's exports to FTA partners surged in April-June 2026, with Singapore and Sri Lanka shipments more than doubling to $6.52 billion and $2.35 billion, respectively, according to The Economic Times. ASEAN exports rose 61.6% to $14.61 billion, and overall Indian exports grew 15.92% to $129.32 billion. India has signed 17 FTAs, of which 16 are operational.
Trade India in 'regular contact' with US on trade deal, says Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal
Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal said India remains in regular contact with the US on the bilateral trade agreement. The first phase, finalised in February, awaits US movement on tariff advantage. India exported $87 billion goods to the US in FY26.
Trade India shifts trade strategy, favours PTAs over FTAs with South Africa, Mercosur and others: Official
India has shifted its trade strategy toward preferential trade agreements (PTAs) instead of free trade agreements (FTAs) with South Africa, Mercosur and other developing economies, according to the Economic Times. A senior official cited by the report said a full FTA with South Africa would require too deep an opening of the Indian market, whereas a PTA would target specific products. India is also pursuing PTAs with Mexico and Kenya, while Ecuador has sought a full FTA.
Trade India's exports rise 15% in April-July; Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal confident of $1 trillion target
According to the Economic Times, India's exports grew around 15% in April-July, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said, and he is confident the $1 trillion 2026-27 export target can be met. The 2025-26 target is $863 billion, while April-June exports rose 15.92% to $129.32 billion and imports rose 19.89% to $216.18 billion.
Trade India and Namibia Agree to Move Bilateral Trade Beyond Raw Materials Toward Value Addition
The Fourth India-Namibia Joint Trade Committee concluded in New Delhi, with both sides agreeing to move bilateral trade beyond raw-material composition toward value addition within Namibia, according to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Officials signed agreed minutes and committed to concrete mechanisms with timelines. Bilateral merchandise trade rose to over $592 million in 2025-26 from $568 million in 2024-25.
Trade India-China rice trade halts as Beijing revokes 7 Indian rice exporters' registrations
China's GACC revoked the registrations of seven Indian rice exporters over alleged GMO presence, bringing rice trade between the two countries to a halt. The move follows the rejection of at least 70 non-basmati rice consignments by China. Indian officials and exporters have questioned the allegations, noting India grows no GM crops.
Trade Activated carbon exporters face banking curbs in shipping to Russia, Sudan
Indian activated carbon exporters are facing fresh banking curbs on shipments to Russia and Sudan, with lenders citing EU sanctions and enhanced compliance requirements, according to businessline. Joshy Joseph of the Activated Carbon Manufacturers Association of India said banks have issued letters prohibiting Russian transactions and restricted Sudan trade. The industry has flagged that no RBI, DGFT or Customs notification prohibits these exports.
Trade Trump extends Jones Act waiver for 90 days despite mounting maritime opposition
US President Donald Trump has extended for another 90 days the unprecedented waiver allowing foreign-flagged ships to move oil and other commodities between American ports, despite fierce opposition from the domestic maritime industry. The extension takes effect August 17 and now requires individual voyage review by the Pentagon and the Maritime Administration, focusing on energy and agricultural commodities.
Trade Indonesia and India Discuss Proposal to Create Preferential Trade Agreement
Indonesia and India held talks on a proposed preferential trade agreement during the BRICS Trade Ministers' Meeting in Jaipur on August 7. The ministers also reviewed AITIGA progress and the WGTI mechanism. Bilateral trade reached US$11.89 billion in the first half of 2026.
India, South Africa-led SACU group may ink terms of reference for negotiating trade pact on Aug 12
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Trade GI-Tagged Mithila Makhana Makes First Sea Shipment from Bihar to Australia
India has exported 18 metric tons of GI-tagged Mithila Makhana from Bihar to Australia by sea for the first time, according to the Economic Times. The seven-container consignment was flagged off from Bihta, Patna, and sourced directly from farmers in Darbhanga, giving them nearly 18 per cent more profit than the market price. The shipment was facilitated by APEDA.
Trade More exporters leveraging free trade pact benefits as certificate of origin issuance doubles
Certificate of origin issuance in India more than doubled from 3.6 lakh in 2021-22 to over 7.8 lakh in 2026-27 so far, indicating higher FTA utilisation. Exports to FTA partner countries grew 25% to USD 43.14 billion, lifting their share in total exports to 33.4%. Minister Jitin Prasada informed the Rajya Sabha that India's trade deficit with China widened to USD 112.16 billion in the last fiscal.
Trade Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman Targets Single-Digit Customs Duties by 2027-28 Budget
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said lowering customs tariffs will be a focus in the next budget, targeting single-digit duties by 2027-28, according to Business Today. Speaking at the CD Deshmukh Memorial Lecture organised by NCAER, she also discussed state borrowing discipline and the necessity of public debt.
Trade Trump imposes 15% tariff on key chip material to counter China
President Trump signed an executive order imposing a 15% tariff on imported polysilicon products and minimum import prices, effective December. The move follows a national security investigation and targets China's near-monopoly on the chip and solar material. Chinese officials said Beijing will act to protect its companies.
Trade Tariff Rationalisation Set to Continue, More Steps Likely in FY28 Budget: FM
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said tariff rationalisation will continue, with more steps likely in the FY28 Budget, according to the Economic Times. India's simple average tariff stood at 15.8% in 2025, per WTO data. She also proposed customs duty exemptions for energy security and aviation manufacturing, and concessional-duty sales by SEZ units in the domestic tariff area.
Trade Trump administration refunds $100 billion in tariffs struck down by US Supreme Court
The Trump administration has refunded about $100 billion in tariffs after the US Supreme Court struck down duties imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. About 60% of the $166 billion collected had been refunded by July 31, according to a filing cited by Reuters. The refunds went to importers, not consumers.
Trade Sweden's Supreme Court Clears Transfer of Caffa Vessel to Ukraine in Landmark Ruling
Sweden's Supreme Court has refused the owner of the cargo vessel Caffa permission to appeal, clearing the way for its transfer to Ukraine. The ruling marks the first time a court outside Ukraine has approved the handover of a vessel linked to stolen Ukrainian grain, according to Swedish media. Ukrainian foreign minister Andrii Sybiha called it an important international precedent against sanctions evasion.
Trade Donald Trump's 'Liberation Day' tariff refunds hit $100bn, court filing shows
Donald Trump's administration has paid back $100bn (£78bn) in 'Liberation Day' tariff refunds to US businesses, roughly 60% of all tariff revenue collected under the policy, according to a US Customs and Border Protection court filing cited by BBC Business. Nearly $29bn in claims remains under review and $1.6bn is awaiting importers' banking details. Amazon received about $600m in refunds in the second quarter.
Trade India, US working towards finalising interim trade agreement, MEA says
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that India and the United States are working towards finalising an interim bilateral trade agreement. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said both sides have done a lot of work, with certain issues still needing finalisation. A USTR delegation visited India in June to advance discussions.
Trade Piyush Goyal likely to visit US for G20 trade ministers meet next month
Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is likely to visit the US for the G20 trade ministers meet beginning September 30, according to The Economic Times. The visit is expected to include bilateral meetings on boosting two-way commerce, with the India-US bilateral trade agreement and the US additional 10% tariff as key backdrop.
Trade India, Uzbekistan should double bilateral trade in three years, says Piyush Goyal
At the India-Uzbekistan Business Forum, Piyush Goyal said bilateral trade between India and Uzbekistan, currently about $1.5 billion, should double in three years. He cited complementary strengths, invited co-investment and co-manufacturing, and referenced a recently concluded Bilateral Investment Treaty to boost investor confidence.
Trade India and Canada target concluding CEPA trade pact by end-2026: MEA
India and Canada aim to conclude the proposed CEPA by end-2026, according to MEA. Three negotiation rounds have been held, with the latest in Ottawa from July 6-10. Bilateral trade stood at $8.66 billion in 2024-25.
Trade First tariff-free Scottish salmon shipment arrives in Bengaluru under UK-India CETA
The first tariff-free Scottish salmon shipment has arrived in Bengaluru under the UK-India CETA, according to the Economic Times – Foreign Trade. Produced by Bakkafrost and imported by Sashimi Foods, the consignment landed barely two weeks after the agreement became operational, with India removing the previous 33% import tariff.
Trade Singaporean Charged Over Sanctioned North Korean Bulker Petrel 8 Flag Registration
David Chong Kwok Yong, 49, has been charged in Singapore with abetting Niue Ship Registry in registering the UN-designated bulk carrier Petrel 8 under a foreign flag. Singapore's Commercial Affairs Department alleges the registration occurred between May 18 and August 18, 2022, despite grounds to believe the vessel was linked to prohibited North Korean cargoes.
Trade India-EU FTA Includes Dedicated CBAM Annexure Framework, Says Commerce Official Darpan Jain
India's Additional Secretary of Commerce Darpan Jain announced that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement includes a separate annexure on the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). The framework outlines a work plan to assist Indian SMEs with compliance, including provisions for future flexibility. The commerce ministry plans a nationwide outreach to help businesses leverage the agreement, which covers nearly USD 33 trillion in combined trade.
Trade Gold tariff hike boosts grey market, hurts organised trade, says WGC
India's decision to more than double gold import tariffs to 15% on May 13, 2026, has boosted the grey market and hurt organised trade, according to the World Gold Council (WGC). The tariff, combined with 3% GST, creates an 18% arbitrage that spurs illegal inflows. Net gold imports fell 23% year-on-year to 98.1 tons in the June quarter, the lowest since September 2020.
Trade US Sanctions Iran’s Hormuz ‘Extortion Scheme’ and Eight Shadow Tankers
The US Treasury sanctioned Persian Gulf Marine Insurance Company and HormuzSafe Marine Services Authority for running an IRGC-backed extortion scheme that forces commercial vessels to purchase maritime insurance before transiting the Strait of Hormuz. OFAC also designated eight tankers and their owning companies for transporting Iranian crude oil, bringing the total shadow fleet sanctions to over 100 ships since the start of the year.
Trade Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal Reviews Export Ecosystem with Councils and Industry Bodies
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal held a meeting with Export Promotion Councils and Industry Associations in New Delhi to review measures aimed at strengthening India’s export ecosystem. The discussions focused on leveraging Free Trade Agreements, promoting the Brand India initiative through quality-led exports, improving logistics and trade facilitation, and expanding market access. The meeting aligns with the government's vision of Viksit Bharat.
Trade Exporters Flag Concerns Over West Asia War Impact on Trade and Logistics
Exporters in India have flagged serious concerns over the impact of the prolonged West Asia crisis on trade, citing uncertainty of orders, higher logistics costs, liquidity issues, and possible disruption of raw material supply chains. The issue was discussed during a meeting between Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and export promotion bodies. Trade bodies like FIEO are demanding fresh measures to help businesses cope with the crisis.
Trade India-China Border Trade Via Lipulekh Resumes Aug 1; China Permits 20 Traders
India-China border trade via Lipulekh Pass will restart on August 1, 2026. The Chinese administration in Tibet has granted permission for only 20 Indian traders to visit Purang (Taklakot) in the first phase to assess preparedness and inspect existing stock. The trade, which has centuries-old roots, was suspended in 2019 due to COVID-19 and is vital to the economy of the border region.
Trade Wove Launches Free Tariff Change Tool for Forwarders, Automates AI Agent Updates
Freight forwarders and customs brokers can now access a free tariff calculator from Wove that automates the tracking of Harmonized Tariff Schedule changes. Using AI agents, the platform can process hundreds of pages of tariff updates from the Federal Register in under an hour, addressing the rapid pace of trade policy shifts.
Trade Shein swings to a quarterly loss after Donald Trump’s trade rules slow US sales
Fast-fashion e-commerce giant Shein reported a $99m net loss for Q1 2026, compared with a $395m profit a year earlier, citing the removal of the US de minimis import duty exemption on small packages. The company also flagged headwinds from US-China tariff uncertainty and the Iran war, and plans to raise prices in the US market. Shein received approval from the China Securities Regulatory Commission for a Hong Kong IPO on 10 July 2026.
Trade Global wheat rally revives India's export prospects as government allows 5 million tonnes of exports
India has authorised the export of 5 million tonnes of wheat after a four-year ban, according to the Economic Times. The decision follows a global wheat rally and a domestic surplus of 57.8 million tonnes in the central pool. The government had previously allowed an additional 2.5 million tonnes in April 2026.
Trade India Reiterates Commitment to Open, Rules-Based Multilateral Trading System at WTO Review
India has reiterated its commitment to an open, inclusive, transparent and rules-based multilateral trading system during the final session of its Eighth Trade Policy Review at the WTO in Geneva. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal said WTO reform should remain development-oriented and preserve policy space for developing countries, while highlighting India's tariff reforms, customs simplification measures and FTA strategy.
Trade Value Added Coffee Exports from India Rise 46% to $686 Million in 2025-26
India's exports of value added coffee rose by 46.58% over three years, reaching $686 million in 2025-26, according to Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada. Overall coffee exports hit $2.083 billion, with Karnataka as the largest exporter and producer. The Coffee Board promotes freeze-dried instant coffee under the 'Coffees of India' logo.
Trade India, Israel Conclude Second Round of Free Trade Agreement Negotiations in New Delhi
The second round of negotiations for the India-Israel free trade agreement concluded in New Delhi from July 20-23, 2025. Officials discussed trade in goods and services, rules of origin, technical barriers, intellectual property rights, and customs procedures. Total bilateral merchandise trade was USD 3.93 billion in 2025-26, according to an official statement from India's Commerce Ministry.
Trade EU Grants Dynagas 12-Month Reprieve in Latest Russia Sanctions Package
The European Union has added 41 vessels to its shadow fleet blacklist while granting Greek shipowner Dynagas a temporary 12-month reprieve from restrictions on carrying Russian LNG to non-EU countries. The exemption limits volumes to 2025 levels and is part of the EU's 21st sanctions package.
Trade Canadian PM Mark Carney Rules Out Retaliatory Tariffs Before August 19 Deadline
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that Canada will not impose retaliatory tariffs before the August 19 deadline set by US President Donald Trump's proposed 50% tariffs. He described advance retaliation as 'counterproductive' and emphasized ongoing negotiations. The tariffs target a broad range of Canadian exports, with an estimated impact of C$28 billion annually.
Trade US Imposes New Tariffs on 60 Trading Partners Over Forced Labour Claims
The United States is imposing new tariffs on imports from approximately 60 trading partners over allegations of inadequate action against forced labour. Duties range from 10% to 12.5% and target key economies including the UK, EU, Canada, Japan, and India, effective Friday. Canada faces additional 50% duties on some goods. The move escalates the global trade war reignited by President Donald Trump.
Trade WTO Nations Query India’s PLI, QCO, Import Substitution; New Delhi Defends Public Policy Objectives
At India's Trade Policy Review, 44 WTO members submitted over 1,090 written questions, with more than 700 answered before the meeting. Concerns focused on predictability and transparency of India's PLI schemes, QCOs, import substitution policies, and other trade measures. New Delhi defended its policies as legitimate public policy objectives.
Trade US-India trade deal could be signed in 3-4 months, US official says at ASEAN meet
A US official speaking at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' meeting in Manila said the US-India trade deal could be signed in 3-4 months, with the Section 301 investigations being the final outstanding step. The official stated the deal is essentially complete. Separately, President Trump announced a phased tariff on generic drug imports, starting tariff-free for two years, then escalating to 100% and 200%, directly affecting India's $9.7 billion pharmaceutical exports to the US.
Trade Trump's Phased Tariff Plan on Generic Drugs: 0% for Two Years, Then Up to 200%
President Donald Trump announced a phased tariff plan on imported generic medicines, with zero tariffs for two years from August 1, 2026, followed by 100% for one year and 200% thereafter. The move targets India, which exported $9.7 billion in pharmaceuticals to the US in 2025, accounting for 38% of its total pharma exports. Indian generics supply 47% of US prescriptions and saved the US healthcare system $219 billion in 2022.
Trade Trump Prepares New Tariff Wave as India Trade Deal Stalls, Threatening Market Access
President Donald Trump is set to impose new tariffs on up to 60 countries, including India, as a temporary 10% tariff expires Friday. A bilateral trade deal with India remains deadlocked over market access and tariff concessions, while Canada faces a 50% tariff unless it removes alleged barriers.
Trade India's Growth Strong but Trade Barriers Threaten 2047 Goal: WTO Trade Policy Review
A WTO Trade Policy Review report highlights India's strong economic growth as the fastest-growing G20 economy, with GDP projected at 6.8-7.2% for FY2027-28. However, it warns that structural challenges including high trade costs, tariffs, and regulatory complexity must be addressed for India to achieve its Viksit Bharat vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047. The report notes India's record exports of $863.1 billion in 2025-26 and a strategic shift towards free trade agreements.
Trade Trump Imposes 50% Tariffs on Canadian Goods Retaliating for US Farmer Treatment
US President Donald Trump has imposed a 50% tariff on a wide range of Canadian imports, citing unequal treatment of US farmers, cars, dairy, and alcohol. The White House confirmed the duties will take effect in 30 days, marking a major escalation in trade tensions.
Trade WTO Urges India to Cut Reliance on Trade-Restrictive Measures, New Delhi Flags Global Non-Tariff Barriers
The WTO's 8th Trade Policy Review for India urges New Delhi to reduce reliance on high tariffs, import/export controls, and state trading enterprises. India counters by flagging rising non-tariff measures by trading partners that constrain its market access. The TPR meeting is scheduled for July 21 and 23.
Trade Canada Vows to Protect Workers After Trump Imposes 50% Tariffs on Select Canadian Goods, Calling It a 'Direct Violation' of CUSMA
Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned President Trump's new 50% tariffs on select Canadian goods as a direct violation of CUSMA. The tariffs target motor vehicles, dairy, and alcoholic beverages, set to take effect in 30 days, with exemptions for energy, potash, fish, and critical minerals. Canada pledges to support workers and remains open to negotiations.
Trade New registries emerge for shadow fleet as Russia becomes dominant flag state
Russia has become the leading flag state for the sanctioned shadow fleet, with over 213 tankers now flying its flag, according to maritime risk firm Windward. New registries in Sierra Leone, Equatorial Guinea, and Oman are attracting sanctioned vessels as Western enforcement intensifies. Equatorial Guinea's registry shows governance gaps, while Cameroon remains the second-largest flag despite expelling vessels.
Trade Uttarakhand Exports First Frozen French Fries Consignment to Iraq via APEDA
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) facilitated the first export of 24 metric tonnes of frozen french fries from Uttarakhand to Iraq. The consignment, shipped by Virun Global Trade Pvt. Ltd. from Kashipur, marks a milestone for value-added agricultural exports from the landlocked state. APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev noted that logistics costs affect competitiveness and that APEDA is working with the Uttarakhand government on transport assistance under the State Agri-Export Policy.