Topic
free trade agreement
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 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 India Opens Applications for Car Import Quota Under India-UK Trade Pact
India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade has invited applications for importing cars from the UK under quota-based duty concessions of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The agreement, effective July 15, allows 3.78 lakh passenger car imports over 15 years with tariffs reduced from up to 110% to 10%, with specific quotas per engine capacity. Applications are open from July 21 to August 4, 2026.
Trade India-UK FTA Unlikely to Significantly Hurt Domestic Consumer Brands, Industry Leaders Say
Industry leaders including Amul and Britannia say the India-UK Free Trade Agreement is unlikely to significantly hurt domestic consumer brands. Customs duties will be progressively reduced over up to 10 years, with 99% of India's exports gaining duty-free access and India cutting tariffs on 90% of lines covering 92% of UK imports. Premium categories may see increased competition but overall pricing impact expected to be limited.
Trade India-UK CETA takes effect: First zero-duty Indian coffee, jewellery consignments reach UK shores
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) took effect on July 15, 2026. The first zero-duty consignments of Indian coffee and jewellery have already arrived in the UK, displayed at a celebratory event at the High Commission of India in London. The agreement covers 99% of India's export tariff lines to the UK, with long-term bilateral trade expected to increase by £25.5 billion annually.
Trade India-UK Trade Deal: Luxury Cars Get Cheaper, but Scotch Whisky Tariff Cuts Will Take Time
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CETA) entered into force on July 15, 2026, immediately lowering import duties on luxury cars from the UK. Tariffs on Scotch whisky and other premium spirits will be reduced gradually over ten years, with the standard 150% duty on such drinks falling to 75% by Year 10. Consumer benefits for spirits will depend on state-level taxes and company pricing decisions.
Trade PM Modi Cheers UK FTA as Exporters Ship Orders of $140 Million on Day 1
Indian exporters shipped goods worth $140 million on the first day of the UK FTA, according to a report. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the development via social media, stating the agreement will give fresh momentum to farmers, entrepreneurs, and MSMEs while deepening cooperation in technology, professional services, and innovation. He emphasized the partnership is driven by trust, trade, technology, investment, and innovation.
Trade India-UK CETA Cuts British Car Prices But Scotch Waits for State Excise Clearances
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) took effect, prompting immediate price cuts of up to Rs 75 lakh on JLR models and nearly 38% on McLarens. However, Scotch whisky and gin tariff cuts are delayed by at least a month as companies file revised costs with state excise departments. ISWAI estimated a 12-13% price reduction for imported whisky if benefits are passed on.
Trade India-UK Trade Pact Comes Into Force: Gold Standard FTA Brings Zero Duties on 99% of Indian Goods
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and a Social Security Agreement came into force on July 15, 2026. The pact eliminates UK duties on 99% of Indian goods from Day One and includes provisions on government procurement, intellectual property, and social security contributions for Indian professionals. Both countries aim to boost bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030.
Trade UK-India trade pact 'gold standard' and powerful message for rules-based order: UK envoy Lindy Cameron
The UK-India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) entered into force, with British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron calling it a 'gold standard' deal that sends a powerful message for rules-based order. The pact secures zero-duty market access for nearly 99% of India's exports to the UK and includes significant tariff reductions on Scotch whisky and premium UK-built cars.
Trade The biggest prize in the India-UK FTA may not be an export boost
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement may have its largest impact not in immediate export growth but in expanding India's exporter base by building lasting trade capabilities. A report by the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) argues that tariff reductions alone are insufficient; India must strengthen standards, certifications, and logistics. The real benefit lies in creating thousands of new exporters, particularly among SMEs in textiles, garments, leather, footwear, marine products, processed foods, and gems and jewellery.
Trade India-UK FTA Takes Effect: Scotch Whisky, Cars, Silver See Major Tariff Cuts
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) took effect on July 15, 2026, marking a significant milestone in bilateral trade. Under the deal, 99% of India's tariff lines gain duty-free access to the UK, while India phases down duties on British goods including Scotch whisky, premium cars, silver, and medical devices over five to ten years. Key sectors such as dairy and cereals remain protected.
Trade India-UK Free Trade Deal Takes Effect: Textile and Scotch Whisky Tariffs Slashed
The India-UK free trade agreement came into effect on July 14, 2026, eliminating or reducing tariffs on 99% of Indian exports to the UK and 90% of UK imports into India. The deal is expected to boost textile exports from companies like Welspun Living and cut Scotch whisky duties from 150% to 75% immediately, with further reductions over 10 years.
Trade India-UK Trade Pact Comes into Force on Wednesday; Bilateral Trade to Hit USD 100 bn by 2030
The India-UK comprehensive economic and trade agreement comes into force on July 15, 2026. Bilateral trade in goods and services is currently about USD 55-60 billion, with a target of USD 100 billion in 3-4 years. Key features include zero-duty entry for Indian textiles, leather, footwear, gems and jewellery and plastics; stringent rules of origin for silver imports; and the Double Contribution Convention benefiting over 75,000 Indian workers.
Trade India and EU Near Completion of Legal Scrubbing of Free Trade Agreement Text, Says Minister Piyush Goyal
India and the European Union are close to completing the legal scrutiny of their free trade agreement text, according to Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. The legal scrub should be over in another week or two, with the pact operationalised a few months after the India-UK trade agreement, which takes effect July 15. Goyal also highlighted potential for 10-fold growth in India-Spain trade, currently at $9.2 billion.
Trade India-UK trade pact: CBIC issues guidelines on implementation of self-certification of origin declarations
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has issued guidelines for implementing self-certification of origin declarations under the India-UK trade agreement. The framework replaces conventional certificates with self-declarations, requiring an authentication process by customs authorities of both countries. Preferential duty treatment is granted only after authenticity is established, and each declaration applies to a single shipment.
Trade India-US Trade Deal Framework ‘Ready’ for Signing at ‘Right Time’, Says Official
An Indian official announced that the framework for the India-US trade deal is ready and will be signed at an appropriate time. Negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement are progressing. India is seeking a tariff structure that provides a comparative advantage. Separately, the USTR proposed Section 301 tariffs of up to 12.5% on India and other economies.
Trade India, US Have Framework Trade Deal Ready; Signing Awaits Right Time: Official
An Indian government official announced that the framework for the India-US trade deal is ready and will be signed at an appropriate time. Negotiations on the broader bilateral trade agreement (BTA) are progressing well. The official also addressed ongoing Section 301 investigations by the USTR, which have proposed additional tariffs on India and other economies.
Trade India-UK FTA Must Drive Transformational Growth, Not Just Higher Trade: Piyush Goyal
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal called on Indian and British businesses to pursue transformational growth beyond incremental gains from the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, effective July 15. He highlighted the Double Contribution Convention's benefits for temporary workers and criticised global rating agencies for unfair assessments of India.
Trade Piyush Goyal Urges Businesses to 'Seize the Moment' as India-UK Trade Pact Unlocks 'Floodgates'
Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, during a three-day visit to the UK, said the recently signed Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) will unlock 'floodgates' for business. He was accompanied by the largest-ever Indian business delegation of nearly 170 representatives. On US bilateral talks, Goyal noted broad agreement except on India's comparative advantage over ASEAN competitors.
Trade 'Target Indians and Indians alone': New Zeland foreign minister Winston Peters alleges ‘covert’ immigration changes under FTA
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters has accused the government of covertly introducing immigration changes that discriminate against Indian citizens under the India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Trade Minister Todd McClay dismissed the claims as misinformation, while the FTA bill passed its first reading in Parliament.
Trade 'It's in last 1 or 2%': US envoy Sergio Gor says India-US trade pact near finish line
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor announced at the USISPF Leadership Summit 2026 that the India-US trade pact is 98-99% complete after an 18-month negotiation. Despite a Supreme Court intervention, US Trade Representative Jamieson Lee Greer's visit to New Delhi salvaged momentum. Gor also highlighted $20.5 billion in new US investments facilitated by the embassy and the highest level of defense cooperation between the two nations.
Trade Sunil Bharti Mittal Hopeful of India-US Trade Deal in Coming Weeks at USISPF Summit
Sunil Bharti Mittal, speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) IX Leadership Summit, expressed confidence that India and the United States will finalize a trade deal in the coming weeks. Mittal, honored with the 2026 Leadership Award, directly addressed US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and underscored the industry's anticipation for the pact. He also highlighted the nearly five-million-strong Indian diaspora as a key pillar of bilateral cooperation.
Trade India-UK Trade Pact Sparks Rush of Export Orders Ahead of July 15 Rollout
The India-UK trade pact, effective July 15, has triggered a surge in export orders across textiles, leather, gems, and chemicals. Textile and garment orders are up 12%, leather handbags and shoes up 20%, and chemical exporters expect a 30-40% rise, according to industry sources.
Trade India pushes to upgrade ASEAN FTA, advances talks on CECA with Australia
India is pushing to upgrade the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) through a multilateral review process, while also advancing negotiations on a balanced Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) with Australia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand in July 2026 to bolster bilateral ties.
Trade Piyush Goyal Says India-Peru FTA Unlikely to Happen Anytime Soon Amid Market Access Concerns
India's Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has indicated that the proposed Free Trade Agreement with Peru is unlikely to be concluded soon, citing concerns over market access for many products. The negotiations, which started in 2017, remain stalled. Goyal also provided updates on the India-Canada FTA and the India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting.
Trade India and ASEAN Assess Progress of Talks for Review of Goods Free Trade Agreement
India and ASEAN assessed the progress of negotiations for the review of their goods free trade agreement during the 13th ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Joint Committee meeting. The Joint Committee urged sub-committees to expedite finalisation of outstanding chapters. Bilateral trade between India and ASEAN reached $128 billion in 2025-26.
Trade USMCA enters uncertain future after U.S. rejects automatic renewal
The Trump administration has declined to renew the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in its current form, triggering annual reviews until issues are resolved or the pact expires in 2036. Despite record North American trade of $1.58 trillion in 2025, the U.S. seeks changes. Bilateral negotiations with Mexico resume in July.
Trade India-UK Comprehensive Trade Deal to Slash Scotch and Gin Tariffs from July 15
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and Double Contribution Convention (DCC) take effect on July 15, 2026. The deal provides zero-duty access on 99% of Indian exports, reduces whisky tariffs from 150% to 75% initially, and establishes a phased auto import quota of 3.78 lakh vehicles over 15 years. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal called it India's 'most comprehensive' trade pact.
Trade India–US Trade Deal Nears Finalization as July 24 Tariff Deadline Looms
India and the United States are close to finalizing an interim trade deal before July 24, when a temporary 10% US tariff expires. High-level negotiations in New Delhi focused on tariff reciprocity, market access, and India's $500 billion purchase plan. Key roadblocks remain after a US Supreme Court ruling altered the tariff landscape.
Trade British MP Bob Blackman Urges Building on India-UK FTA Gains, Warns Against EU Trade Dilution
British Conservative MP Bob Blackman praised the India-UK FTA as a positive development after 15 rounds of talks, but warned that future UK-EU trade arrangements could countermand the advantages. Government sources confirmed the India-UK Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) is the most aspirational agreement, opening a market worth over USD 500 billion for Indian businesses, with over 99% of India's tariff lines and trade moving to zero duty.
Trade UK PM Keir Starmer Turned India-UK FTA into His Tenure-Defining Deal
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) will come into force on July 15, following his meeting with PM Modi at the G7 Summit. The deal aims to boost the £48 billion bilateral trade relationship. Starmer emphasized the opportunities as India is set to become the third largest economy by 2028.
Trade India-UK FTA Sparks Partnership Rush Among Boutique Law Firms
The India-UK free trade agreement, effective July 15, 2026, is prompting a surge in partnerships among boutique law firms. Mumbai-based Solicis Lex has inked a formal partnership with London’s Child & Child, and more tie-ups are expected. The FTA is expected to boost demand for legal services in real estate, immigration, M&A, and tax structuring, particularly for cost-sensitive high-net-worth individuals and SMEs.
Trade India-EU Free Trade Agreement to Be Signed by December, Effective Early 2027: Piyush Goyal
Commerce minister Piyush Goyal announced that the India-EU FTA will be signed by December 2026 and come into force between February and March 2027. The deal will provide duty-free access to 93% of Indian exports, while EU luxury cars and wines will become cheaper in India. US trade representative Jamieson Greer will also visit India for trade talks.
Trade India-EU Free Trade Agreement to Be Signed by December, Implemented from February-March Next Year: Piyush Goyal
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the India-EU free trade agreement will be signed by December and implemented from February-March next year. The deal, described as the 'mother of all deals', will provide almost zero-duty access to the 27-nation EU bloc for Indian exports, while imports of luxury cars and wines from the EU will become less expensive. Negotiations concluded on January 27, and the second round of CEPA talks was held in May.
Trade India-UK Free Trade Agreement to Take Effect from July 15, 2026
The India-UK free trade agreement and social security deal will be operational from July 15, 2026, after talks between PM Modi and PM Starmer in Evian. The deal eliminates tariffs on 99% of Indian exports, resolves steel tariff issues via quotas, and includes duty cuts on Scotch whisky (150% to 40%), automobiles (100% to 10%), and cosmetics (22% to 0%).
Trade India to Allow Import of 3.78 Lakh UK Cars at Concessional Duty in First 15 Years of Trade Pact
Under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), India will permit the import of 3.78 lakh (378,000) passenger cars from the UK at concessional duties over 15 years. Import duties on automotive products will drop from about 110% to 10%, with phased quotas. The pact takes effect on July 15.
Trade PM Modi and Trump Direct Officials to Fast-Track 'Commercially Meaningful' Trade Pact
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump directed officials to fast-track a 'commercially meaningful' trade pact during their G7 Summit meeting. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer will visit India next week to advance negotiations. The leaders reaffirmed the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and reviewed progress under the COMPACT initiative.
Trade 'Fastest we've ever put a trade deal into force': British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron hails India-UK trade deal
British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron announced that the India-UK free trade agreement will enter into force on July 15, 2026, less than a year after signing. The deal, dubbed the fastest ever put into force by the two nations, will provide duty-free access to 99% of Indian exports and reduce tariffs on British Scotch whisky from 150% to 40%. It aims to double bilateral trade to $100-$120 billion by 2030.
Trade India-UK free trade deal to take effect on July 15 opening 99% of exports to tariff-free access
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) will take effect on July 15, 2026, reducing tariffs on 99% of India's exports to zero. The deal includes a social security agreement and addresses steel safeguard measures. Over 75,000 Indian professionals and 900 companies are expected to benefit.
Trade India and Canada Agree to Conclude Free Trade Pact Negotiations by End of 2026
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Evian-les-Bains, France, and reaffirmed their shared objective of concluding negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of 2026. The two leaders also agreed to launch talks on a General Security of Information Agreement to deepen defence cooperation. The meeting builds on positive momentum following Carney's visit to India in March 2026.
Trade 'We did it': Modi, Starmer caught on mic hinting at breakthrough in UK-India trade deal
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer were overheard exchanging 'We did it' at the G7 summit, sparking speculation that hurdles delaying the UK-India free trade agreement—including disagreements over steel safeguards—may be close to resolution. The pact, signed last year, involves significant tariff reductions on both sides and is expected to boost bilateral trade by £25.5 billion annually.
Trade India-EU free trade deal to be inked by year-end: Ursula von der Leyen
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the India-EU Free Trade Agreement will be signed by the end of the year, with accelerated work on an investment agreement. The announcement was made at the G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains, France, in a meeting also attended by European Council President Antonio Costa. The deal, described as the 'mother of all trade deals,' is expected to significantly boost bilateral trade and investment.
Trade UK-India free trade deal to kick in on July 15, cutting tariffs by over $480 mn in year one
The UK-India free trade agreement will enter into force on July 15, 2026, as announced by the UK's Department for Business and Trade. India will cut tariffs on 90% of product lines for UK exports, reducing duties on UK exports by up to Rs 3,400 crore (over $480 million) in the first year. The deal is projected to boost UK GDP by £4.8 billion annually and increase bilateral trade by £25.5 billion.
Trade India, Canada Agree to Conclude Free Trade Pact Talks by Year-End After G7 Meeting
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Evian-les-Bains and reaffirmed their commitment to concluding negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of 2026. The leaders reviewed progress in energy, trade, and critical minerals cooperation, and announced new initiatives including Raisina Americas.
Trade India, UK Working to Resolve Outstanding Issues for Trade Pact Implementation
Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal confirmed that an Indian team is in London to resolve outstanding issues after the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was signed on July 24, 2025. Key sticking points include UK steel safeguard measures and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), which could impact Indian exports worth USD 775 million. Discussions with UK Secretary Peter Kyle are ongoing.
Trade India-EFTA Trade Pact Implementation on Agenda as Piyush Goyal Heads to Switzerland
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will visit Berne, Switzerland on June 12 to discuss implementation issues of the India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), which took effect in October 2025. EFTA members have committed to invest $100 billion in India over 15 years and create 1 million direct jobs. The visit comes as India pursues a broader strategy of free trade agreements with developed economies to support its $30 trillion economic vision by 2047.
Trade India, US Near Completion of Trade Deal Talks
India and the US are nearing the completion of a bilateral trade agreement, with only minor details remaining. The deal aims to strengthen economic ties and address tariff issues.
Trade India, UK Aim to Finalize Trade Deal Amid Steel Quota Talks
India and the UK are working to finalize a bilateral trade agreement, focusing on resolving issues related to steel quotas and duties. The agreement aims to lower tariffs and enhance business access.
Trade India-Oman CEPA Boosts Bilateral Trade
The India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) has commenced, enhancing trade relations between the two countries. The agreement provides preferential access for Indian exports, including textiles and marine products, to the Omani market.
Trade Oman-India FTA Benefits Begin Today, Boosting Trade
The Oman-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) takes effect today, offering duty concessions on 77.8% of India's tariff lines. This agreement covers 94.8% of India's imports from Oman by value, enhancing bilateral trade.
Trade India-UK Trade Pact Delayed Over Steel, Carbon Tax Issues
The India-UK trade agreement faces delays as unresolved issues over steel import curbs and a proposed carbon tax persist. The UK plans to reduce steel import quotas by 60% from July 2026, while a carbon tax could impact $775 million of Indian exports.
Trade India-Oman Trade Pact Effective June 1: Key Details
The India-Oman trade pact, effective June 1, 2026, provides 100% duty-free access for Indian exports to Oman, covering 98.08% of Oman's tariff lines. This agreement aims to enhance bilateral trade, which reached USD 11.18 billion in 2025-26.
Trade Canada, India Officials Optimistic on Trade Pact Progress
Officials from Canada and India express optimism about finalizing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of the year. Recent discussions at the Western Canada-India Leaders Summit in Regina highlighted potential trade benefits, particularly in agricultural commodities.
Trade India-Oman CEPA Boosts Trade and Energy Security
The India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is set to enhance trade resilience and energy security. The agreement offers India duty-free access to Oman, boosting exports in key sectors.
Trade UK-India FTA Boosts Bilateral Trade Opportunities
The UK-India Free Trade Agreement, effective from May 2026, aims to enhance bilateral trade by reducing tariffs and simplifying regulations. This landmark deal is expected to significantly boost economic ties between the two nations.