Topic
trade deal
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
India, US Move Closer to Interim Trade Deal After Goyal-Greer Talks in New Delhi
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer concluded a three-day visit to New Delhi on Wednesday, holding discussions with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. The two sides reviewed key elements of a proposed interim trade deal, noting substantial progress toward a comprehensive Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA).
Piyush Goyal to Visit London Before India-UK CETA and DCC Come into Force
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal will travel to London ahead of the India-UK Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement (CETA) and Double Contribution Convention (DCC) taking effect. The visit includes a bilateral meeting with UK Secretary of State Peter Kyle and engagements with major corporations to strengthen economic ties.
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.
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.
Piyush Goyal and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer Launch Bilateral Trade Pact Talks in New Delhi
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer began talks on a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) in New Delhi on June 23, 2026. The negotiations come after significant changes in US tariff policies, including the Supreme Court striking down earlier tariffs and the imposition of 10% Section 122 tariffs. Both sides are relooking at the framework agreed in February 2026, which had proposed US tariff reductions to 18% on Indian goods.
India Seeks Tariff Edge Over Asian Rivals as US Trade Chief Arrives for Talks
India is negotiating a trade deal with the United States, seeking tariff advantages over Asian competitors. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said he hopes to finalise an agreement before a temporary US tariff expires on July 24.
India Seeks Preferential Access Through US Trade Deal as 50% Tariff Hampers Progress, Minister Says
India's trade minister Piyush Goyal revealed on Monday that a trade agreement with the United States is experiencing delays, primarily due to a 50% tariff on Indian goods. New Delhi is actively seeking preferential market access through the pact, a key objective for the nation's economic strategy.
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.
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.
India-US Trade Deal Conditional on Competitive Advantage, Tariff Parity: Goyal
India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal stated that the India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement cannot be implemented until India secures a competitive advantage through lower tariffs compared to rival nations. The framework agreement is already finalised, but implementation awaits resolution of outstanding tariff concerns. Goyal also noted that nine Free Trade Agreements have been concluded under Prime Minister Modi's tenure with 38 countries.
Trump Says India, US 'Very Close' to Trade Deal After Modi Bilateral at G7
US President Donald Trump said India and the US are 'very close' to finalising a trade deal, after a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G7 summit. Trump praised Modi as a 'tough negotiator' and also offered US assistance if India is attacked. The comments come amid tensions over US strikes on ships with Indian sailors in the Strait of Hormuz.
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%).
Rupee ends higher for second day, settles at 94.33 as trade deal hopes offset oil concerns
The Indian rupee extended gains for a second consecutive session, settling 7 paise higher at 94.33 against the US dollar on Friday. Optimism over India-US trade negotiations and a decline in Brent crude oil prices supported the currency, though a stronger dollar and uncertainty around US-Iran talks capped gains. Foreign institutional investors turned net buyers, purchasing equities worth Rs 4,859.07 crore.
Rupee rebounds 20 paise to 94.20 against US dollar on India-US trade deal hopes
The Indian rupee strengthened 20 paise to 94.20 against the US dollar in early trade on Friday, driven by optimism over a potential India-US trade agreement and supported by improving foreign inflows and softer crude oil prices. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that trade figured prominently in recent Modi-Trump talks, with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer expected to visit India next week. Forex analyst Amit Pabari noted that the RBI may have already purchased USD 3–5 billion over the last two sessions to rebuild reserves.
'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.
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.
'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.
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.
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.
Commodities Middle East crude slips into discounts as US-Iran deal lifts global supply outlook
Middle East crude benchmarks flipped into contango this week after the US and Iran agreed a framework deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, boosting supply expectations. Dubai's premium turned to a 46-cent discount, the first since January, while Oman and Murban also flipped to discounts amid weak Asian refining demand and emerging arbitrage flows to Europe and the US.
Will India-US trade deal be announced at G7? USTR signals more talks, says pact not imminent
According to a Times of India report, the U.S. Trade Representative has signaled further talks with India, indicating that a bilateral trade deal will not be announced at the upcoming G7 summit. The report did not include specific trade figures, tariff concessions, or a timeline for a final agreement.
India Seeks Preferential Tariffs, End to Forced Labour Probe in US Trade Deal
India has outlined key demands in trade talks with the US, including preferential tariff treatment and an end to the Section 301 forced labour investigation. An interim deal could be finalised by mid-July, but progress hinges on Washington concluding its probes. The US has proposed additional 12.5% tariffs on Indian imports over forced labour concerns.
India-US Trade Deal Talks Include Proposed 12.5% Tariff
The India-US trade negotiations, described as '75 years overdue' by USIBC's Atul Keshap, include a proposed 12.5% tariff on Indian goods. Talks aim to boost bilateral trade to $500 billion.
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.
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.
US Proposes New Tariffs on India Amid Trade Talks
The US Trade Representative has proposed new tariffs on India under Section 301, citing unfair trade practices. This move comes during ongoing trade negotiations between the US and India.
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.
US Envoy Meets Piyush Goyal for Trade Deal Talks
US envoy Sergio Gor is set to meet India's Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal to finalize a bilateral trade agreement. The deal, which is 99% complete, aims to enhance market access and strengthen economic ties between the US and India.
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.
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.
India Reconsiders Scotch Tariff in UK Trade Deal
India is reviewing tariff concessions on Scotch whisky in its trade deal with the UK due to unresolved issues over steel quotas and duties. The trade agreement, initially set for May, has been postponed indefinitely as negotiations continue.
India, EAEU Discuss Interim Trade Deal Amid Complex Talks
India and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) are negotiating a limited interim trade deal, as confirmed by Russian Minister Maxim Reshetnikov. The discussions aim to establish a temporary free trade zone for specific goods, enhancing economic ties.
US-India Trade Deal Imminent, Says Envoy Sergio Gor
US Envoy to India, Sergio Gor, anticipates the signing of a US-India trade deal in the coming weeks. The agreement aims to enhance bilateral trade, which has grown from $20 billion to over $220 billion.
India, Canada Target November for Free Trade Agreement
India and Canada are negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with a target to finalize by November 2023. The agreement aims to triple bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030, reducing trade barriers and opening investment opportunities.
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.