Topic
fta
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’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 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 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, 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-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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Goyal meets exporters to discuss ways to boost shipments, leverage FTAs
Piyush Goyal met with Export Promotion Councils and industry associations to discuss strategies for boosting exports and leveraging free trade agreements. The meeting focused on MSME support, innovation, and export facilitation. Trade data for April-May 2026-27 showed exports of USD 88.91 billion and imports of USD 145.35 billion.
Trade Government Seeks Comparative Advantage in US Trade Deal, Reports Business-Today
According to a report by Business-Today, the Indian government is seeking to leverage comparative advantage in its ongoing trade deal negotiations with the United States. No further details were provided in the source article.
Trade UK-India Trade Deal Calls for Standards Upgrade, Experts Say
Experts have called for Indian exporters to upgrade product standards to align with UK regulatory requirements under the upcoming Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). The UK Department for Business and Trade has already launched a nationwide FTA roadshow across six cities to prepare British businesses. Rudra Kumar Pandey of SAM & Co emphasized the need for similar outreach programmes in India.
Trade Mega FTA Wave to Bring 60% of India Trade Under Preferential Regime: ET
More than 60% of India's trade will soon be under preferential terms as the UK deal takes effect next month, an EU pact is expected next year, and a US agreement is being finalised, according to the Economic Times. The report highlights India's expanding FTA network under mega trade deals.
Trade India-UK FTA clears steel hurdle; 85% of Indian exports shielded from British curbs
India has secured protection for **85%** of its steel exports to the UK under the India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), with those shipments remaining outside Britain's upcoming steel safeguard measures. The agreement, effective from July 15, caps tariff-free imports and reduces overall quota volumes by **60%**, with a **50%** tariff on over-quota steel. The deal also addresses concerns over the UK's planned carbon border adjustment mechanism (CBAM) scheduled for **2027**.
Trade UK and Japan Agree £18bn Investment Deal Covering Infrastructure, Offshore Wind
The UK and Japan have agreed a multi-billion pound investment deal worth £18bn, with Japanese firms committing to spend over £9bn on UK infrastructure and financial services and up to £9bn on offshore wind. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in London to finalise the agreement, which Downing Street said will create tens of thousands of jobs.
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 Electronics, pharma and engineering goods lead India's FTA dividend as export engine shifts gears
Yes Securities has developed an FTA Opportunity Score to assess India's recent free trade agreements. Electronics emerged as the strongest sector with a score of 1.32, followed by pharmaceuticals at 0.66 and engineering goods at 0.50, with Monte Carlo simulations confirming positive outcomes for all three.
Trade Mexico Holds Top US Trade Spot as Trump Raises Doubts on Renewing USMCA
Mexico held its position as the top U.S. trading partner in April with $86.04 billion in two-way trade, a 23.4% increase year-over-year, extending a streak since 2023. President Donald Trump raised doubts about renewing the USMCA, stating he is not looking to renew it. USMCA negotiations continue with a second round of talks scheduled in Washington.
Trade India's FTAs Poised to Catalyze $1 Trillion Export Goal: Report
A report by Yes Securities says India's new generation of Free Trade Agreements, combined with PLI schemes and China+1 diversification, can help achieve US$1 trillion in merchandise exports by 2030. The agreements mark a shift from protectionism to global integration, with electronics, pharmaceuticals, and engineering goods as key beneficiaries. Services exports are also expected to play a parallel role, targeting US$2 trillion total exports.
Trade India-Oman Trade Pact Boosts Export Opportunities
The India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), effective June 1, 2026, significantly enhances export opportunities for India's labour-intensive sectors by securing duty-free access across 98.08% of Oman's tariff lines. This agreement supports India's energy security and supply-chain resilience.
Trade India to Review FTAs, Revamp Investment Screening: Report
A new report recommends India conduct a comprehensive audit of its Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and overhaul its investment screening process. The report highlights the need for sector-specific strategies and improved market access.
Trade India's Commerce Ministry Launches FTA Workshops Nationwide
India's Commerce Ministry will conduct workshops nationwide to educate businesses on Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). The initiative aims to maximize the benefits of five operational FTAs, including a new pact with Oman effective June 1.
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-US Trade Deal Phase One Imminent, Says Goyal
India and the US are set to finalize the first phase of their trade deal by mid-next month, according to Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. The agreement aims to provide India with preferential access over competitors.
Trade India to Finalize 2-3 FTAs in Six Months, Says Piyush Goyal
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal announced plans to implement 2-3 new free trade agreements (FTAs) within the next six months. This move is part of India's broader strategy to enhance international trade relations.
Trade India-Oman FTA Boosts Livestock Exports
The India-Oman Free Trade Agreement, effective June 2026, provides duty-free access to Indian livestock products, boosting exports to Oman. This strategic move enhances India's presence in the Gulf market.
Trade India-US Trade Deal Nears Completion, Final Details Pending
India and the US are on the brink of finalizing a trade agreement, with only 1% of the terms left to negotiate. US envoy Sergio Gor expressed optimism for completion within weeks.
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 UK Foreign Secretary to Discuss FTA in India Visit
UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is set to visit India to discuss a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) aimed at enhancing the £48 billion trade relationship. The FTA could eliminate tariffs on 99% of UK exports to India and reduce tariffs on 90% of Indian exports to the UK.
Trade India-UK FTA Stalled by Steel Tariffs, Scotch Duties May Adjust
The India-UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) faces implementation delays due to the UK's new steel tariffs and carbon tax. India may adjust Scotch whisky duties to rebalance the agreement.
Trade India, UK Address Trade Pact Hurdles Amid CETA Delays
India and the UK are addressing hurdles in their trade pact as CETA implementation faces delays. Key issues include the UK's steel safeguard and carbon border adjustment mechanism, affecting India's exports.
Trade Oman Boosts Petchem, Fertiliser Exports as FTA Begins
Oman and India have initiated a free trade agreement, enhancing trade in petrochemicals and fertilisers. The agreement, effective June 1, 2026, reduces tariffs on 99% of Indian exports and 78% of Omani imports.
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, Canada Target $50B Trade with CEPA Talks
India and Canada are advancing their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) talks, aiming to boost bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030. Piyush Goyal's visit to Canada emphasized investment opportunities and collaboration in key sectors.
Trade India-US Trade Pact Nears Completion: Ambassador Gor
The India-US trade pact is nearing completion, as announced by US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor. The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in technology and pharmaceuticals, with significant investments expected.
Trade India-US Trade Talks Resume June 1 to Finalize Interim Pact
India and the United States will resume trade talks on June 1 in New Delhi, focusing on finalizing an interim trade agreement. Key issues include tariff reductions and market access, with significant changes in the US tariff regime influencing discussions.
Trade India-EAEU Trade Talks Progress with Interim Deal Focus
India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) are advancing discussions on a temporary trade arrangement for select goods. The talks, described as complex, aim to establish a limited free trade zone.
Trade India-Oman CEPA: Key Benefits and Sector Gains
The India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) becomes effective June 1, 2026, enhancing trade by eliminating tariffs on key exports. This agreement significantly benefits sectors like engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, while also facilitating professional mobility.
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 India-Canada CEPA: Piyush Goyal Sees New Trade Opportunities
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized the potential of the India-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to enhance bilateral trade. Speaking in Toronto, Goyal noted the trust between the two democracies as a catalyst for new trade and investment opportunities.