Topic
Free Trade Agreements
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 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 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 Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal to Visit Chile This Month to Review CEPA Talks: Official
India's Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal will visit Chile this month to review progress on CEPA negotiations, according to an official cited by The Economic Times. The proposed CEPA would widen the 2006 PTA to cover digital services, MSMEs, investment and critical minerals. India is also pursuing a PTA with Mercosur and possible pacts with Mexico and Kenya.
Trade India-SACU trade pact terms may be signed tomorrow
India and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) are close to finalizing terms of reference for trade talks, which an official said could be signed on August 12. The agreement would set the groundwork for negotiations on a preferential trade agreement, a process stalled since 2008 over market access and sensitivities.
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 Borderlands Mexico: USMCA Gives Mexico an Edge as Global Trade Barriers Rise
Mexico is experiencing a technology-driven export boom, with Chapter 84 machinery exports doubling to roughly $200 billion, according to BBVA México. The country now supplies a record 17% of U.S. imports in early 2026, surpassing China as the leading supplier of advanced technology products. The USMCA gives Mexico a tariff advantage as global trade barriers rise.
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 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 India, Uzbekistan could explore FTA, Piyush Goyal says; Uzbekistan invites mining, rare earths investment
India and Uzbekistan could explore a free trade agreement, according to Piyush Goyal at the India-Uzbekistan Business Forum. Uzbekistan's Investment Minister Laziz Kudratov invited Indian companies into mining, metallurgy and rare earths, citing top-10 global deposits of gold, copper and uranium. Bilateral trade currently stands at around $1.5 billion, with a $2 billion target for next year.
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 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 Assocham: India's exports to UK may reach USD 115 billion by 2030 under trade pact
Assocham has projected that the India-UK trade agreement, effective July 15, 2026, could more than double India's exports to the UK from USD 58 billion in FY2025-26 to USD 115 billion by 2030, while creating 7-10 lakh jobs. The chamber stressed the need for sustained competitiveness in quality, certification, and rules of origin compliance.
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 UK Trade Deal: India Invites Applications for Car Import Quota Under CETA
India's DGFT has invited applications for the Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ) for importing 0.378 million conventional-engine passenger cars from the UK at a concessional 10% customs duty, down from 110%, under the India-UK CETA. The application window runs from July 21 to August 4, 2026.
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 Textile sector to sew loose ends as FTAs kick in
The operationalisation of the UK-India free trade agreement eliminates tariffs up to 12% on textile exports, bringing parity with competitors. Industry body Indian Texpreneurs Federation expects exports to double to a 12% share in 4-5 years, but experts caution about structural challenges.
Trade India-EU Investment Protection Pact, GI Agreements Work in Progress: Piyush Goyal
Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the India-EU investment protection pact and geographical indications agreements are work in progress. Speaking at the India-Estonia Business Forum, he highlighted that trade pacts with the UK, EFTA, and the EU now effectively connect India to the entire European market, opening huge opportunities for businesses on both sides.
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, EU Hopeful of Investment Protection Pact Before Year-End After TTC Meeting
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic expressed hope that India and the European Union will conclude an investment protection agreement before the end of the year, following the third India-EU Trade and Technology Council meeting. Goyal also addressed EU steel measures, stating they were part of a balanced free trade agreement.
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 India Exports $140 Million in Duty-Free Goods on Day One of UK Trade Pact
India exported $140 million worth of goods at zero duty on the first day of the UK-India Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA). The pact grants duty-free access to nearly 99% of Indian exports. Key sectors include leather, textiles, gems, and electronics. The government procurement chapter opens a GBP 90 billion UK market to Indian suppliers, with safeguards for MSMEs.
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 CETA Comes Into Force, Delivering Zero-Duty Access for Nearly 99% of Indian Exports
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) and the concurrent Social Security Agreement entered into force on July 15, 2026. The pact provides zero-duty market access for nearly 99% of India's exports, covering almost 100% of trade value, and eliminates tariffs on labour-intensive sectors such as textiles, leather, gems and jewellery, and engineering goods. The Social Security Agreement exempts temporary Indian workers from UK National Insurance contributions for up to five years, benefiting over 75,000 professionals and 900 companies.
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 NITI Aayog Proposes Pharma Chapter in Future FTAs, Urges India to Move Up Value Chain
NITI Aayog’s eighth Trade Watch Quarterly report proposes a dedicated pharmaceuticals chapter in future free trade agreements to help India move up the value chain. The report calls for greater regulatory transparency, stronger industry-academia tech transfer, and shared environmental compliance infrastructure. It highlights India's 65% dependence on China for critical APIs and notes India supplies 50% of Africa's, 40% of the US', and 25% of the UK's generic drug needs.
Trade Political Will Driving India-US Trade Deal, Says Former Diplomat Vidya Bhushan Soni
Former diplomat Vidya Bhushan Soni stated that strong political will is driving the India-US trade negotiating process, with the February 2025 agreement serving as a turning point. The statement came as India and the United States concluded a two-day ministerial-level round on the Bilateral Trade Agreement, aiming for an interim pact ahead of a US tariff deadline. USTR Jamieson Greer and Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal both expressed optimism about the relationship.
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 Make use of FTAs, other schemes to boost shipments, government tells businesses
The Indian government has asked businesses to fully utilize free trade agreements and other schemes under the Export Promotion Mission. Commerce minister Piyush Goyal met export promotion councils to review progress towards export targets, with a focus on the upcoming India-UK CEPA and the India-EU deal. Concerns remain over capacity constraints in the textile sector and over-reliance on interest subsidy.
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 India-Israel, GCC FTA Talks Temporarily Stalled Due to West Asia Crisis: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced that India's FTA negotiations with Israel and the six-nation GCC bloc have been temporarily stalled due to the West Asia crisis. Meanwhile, India is pursuing active negotiations with several other partners, including Chile, Mexico, SACU, and the Eurasian Economic Union. Goyal also highlighted a target to double India-Greece bilateral trade to $2.6 billion by 2030 and India's goal of reaching $2 trillion in exports within five years.
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 Validity of FY26 Gold Import Quota Licences Under India-UAE Trade Pact Extended Till September 30
The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has automatically extended the validity of FY26 gold import quota licences issued under the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) until September 30, 2026. No separate application or fee is required. The move covers the 200-metric-tonne annual gold import quota with a 1% tariff concession.
Trade US Declines Long-Term Renewal of USMCA, Triggering Ten-Year Countdown to Expiration
The United States has declined to renew the USMCA in its current form, blocking an automatic 16-year extension. The decision triggers a 10-year countdown toward the deal expiring as early as 2036, with annual reviews replacing the long-term commitment. Business groups are divided, with the US Chamber of Commerce warning of uncertainty while steel industry associations welcome the leverage from annual reviews.
Trade USMCA Renewal: Why the Expected Fight Over North American Trade Deal Never Kicked Off
This article explains why the anticipated political battle over the USMCA renewal did not materialize. The war with Iran absorbed the White House's focus, while the US administration believes its tariff strategy has already rebalanced North American trade relations. Formal talks with Mexico and Canada are proceeding without drama, and a 10-year countdown to expiry has begun.
Trade US trade deal to be on day India secures tariff edge, says Piyush Goyal
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced that the US trade deal is nearly complete and hinges on India securing a competitive tariff edge. Meanwhile, the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) will come into force on July 15.
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 India waives customs duty, IGST on imported animals under UK trade pact from July 15
India has announced a customs duty and IGST waiver on imported animals used in shows and public functions, effective July 15, under its trade pact with the UK. The notification from CBIC requires re-export within six months and a bank guarantee of 110% of duty, with exceptions for government and diplomatic missions.
Trade India Finance Ministry Notifies Rules of Origin for Goods Under India-UK Trade Pact
India's Finance Ministry has notified the rules of origin for goods under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The rules, effective July 15, 2026, are critical for exporters to claim duty-free access covering 99% of India's exports to the UK. CBIC will oversee implementation, with authorised entities issuing certificates of origin.