Topic
fishermen
Trade India amends FDI rules to boost e-commerce for small businesses, artisans, farmers, fishermen
India has amended its FDI regulations to facilitate large-scale e-commerce trade in handlooms, handicrafts, textiles, footwear and food products, according to Union Minister Piyush Goyal. The announcement followed the BRICS Trade and Industry Ministers' Meeting in Jaipur. Goyal said the move will benefit farmers, fishermen, small businesses and traditional sectors, and confirmed India does not support a common BRICS currency.
Regulations & Compliance India's WTO Fisheries Subsidy Agreement Ratification Sparks Concern Among Traditional Fishermen
India formally ratified the WTO Fisheries Subsidy Agreement on July 20, 2026, becoming the 123rd member. Fisherfolk groups in Kerala, including KADAL and the Kerala Fishermen Coordination Committee, have raised strong objections, warning that implementation could threaten the livelihoods of millions of traditional fishermen who rely on government subsidies for survival. They argue that developed countries provide far larger subsidies per worker, and that India's fishing communities, 68% of whom live below the poverty line, need continued support.