India-UK FTA to include co-equal origin provision; product-specific norms to offer flexibility

The India-UK FTA introduces “coequal” origin rules, offering flexibility for goods to qualify for reduced tariffs by meeting any origin criteria. This approach, along with digital certificates of origin, aims to improve access and compliance. India anticipates zero duty benefits for 99% of exports to the UK, while the UK will cut tariffs on 90% […]

The Services Export Promotion Council (SEPC) and IAMAI have partnered to boost India’s digital services exports. This collaboration aims to strengthen the global presence of Indian digital businesses by promoting international market access and addressing trade-related policy challenges. Joint working groups will be formed with government bodies to resolve issues faced by digital exporters.

India’s trade surplus with the US may decrease due to upcoming bilateral trade agreements. CRISIL reports India’s imports of energy, agriculture, and defense could rise. While the US is India’s top export partner, there’s room to grow exports like smartphones and textiles. Trade deal completion is expected by September.

The UAE-India CEPA Council has launched the UAE–India CEPA Start-up Series in New Delhi, aiming to boost innovation and support Indian start-ups’ global expansion. Bilateral trade has surged since the CEPA, reaching $83.64 billion in FY 2023-24. The initiative will culminate in a pitch event, offering selected start-ups a UAE soft-landing package with incubation, mentorship, […]

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that trade deal negotiations with the US and EU are progressing rapidly and are expected to conclude soon. She refuted claims of India being a “tariff king,” highlighting reduced customs duties. India’s exports reached a record $825 billion in FY25, with a 6% growth, despite global challenges, aiming for $2 […]

India and the UK are moving closer to signing a free trade agreement. Legal scrubbing of the text is progressing rapidly. Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal is in London to expedite the process. The agreement aims to boost trade between the two nations. It will eliminate taxes on key exports. The deal requires approval from both […]

The Iran-Israel ceasefire offers India, with its significant Middle East trade and energy dependence, a major respite by reducing geopolitical risks and stabilizing freight costs. This de-escalation ensures safer shipping routes via the Strait of Hormuz, benefiting Indian exporters and importers. However, experts caution that the ceasefire’s temporary nature necessitates sustained peace efforts for lasting […]

India is exploring solutions to manage rare earth magnet supply disruptions, Union Heavy Industries Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy said on Tuesday. Addressing the issue, he stated, “We are working on it… Midwest, a Hyderabad-based company, has shown interest. They are targeting 500 tonne rare earth magnet production by this year end, aiming for 5000 tonne […]