India, US may sign formal trade pact by mid-March

The United States will reduce tariffs on goods from India. The tariffs will drop to 18% from the current 50%. This change will happen after a joint statement is signed virtually, marking the first part of a broader trade agreement. Washington plans to issue an executive order to put the lower tariffs into effect a […]

Switzerland’s Rado luxury watch company sees its price advantage from a new trade deal with India largely cancelled out. The rupee’s depreciation against the Swiss franc has reduced the expected benefits. The India-European Free Trade Association deal, starting in October 2025, aims to lower import tariffs on Swiss watches. However, currency fluctuations are impacting the […]

Indian solar equipment exports to the US are set for a significant boost. Tariffs are falling, making Indian solar modules and cells more competitive. Companies are now planning to export higher-value items like battery storage systems and inverters. This move is expected to drive capacity expansion and create new opportunities in the growing US market.

India prioritizes energy security for its vast population. The government’s strategy focuses on diversifying energy sources based on market conditions and global dynamics. India maintains open options for crude oil imports from Venezuela and other regions, considering commercial viability. Energy engagement with Venezuela has a long history, with crude purchases resuming in 2023-24 after a […]

India has backed FORGE, a new critical minerals initiative launched in Washington DC. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attended the Critical Minerals Ministerial, a meeting of over 50 nations. Discussions focused on de-risking supply chains and reducing global overreliance on China. India’s support for FORGE signals its commitment to global resource security and strategic partnerships.

Both sides would now work towards completing the technical details and finalising the paperwork for the trade deal so as to expeditiously unlock its potential, Goyal informed Parliament.

India and the Gulf Cooperation Council are set to sign terms for a free trade agreement. This marks a significant step towards a comprehensive trade pact. The agreement aims to boost bilateral trade between India and the GCC bloc. This development follows recent trade deals with the US and EU.

India’s national security advisor met with US officials to mend ties after President Trump’s tariffs and criticism. This led to a trade agreement reducing tariffs and boosting US imports, signaling a thaw in relations despite India’s strategic autonomy efforts.

India and the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council bloc will sign terms of reference for free trade agreement talks. This marks a resumption of negotiations after earlier rounds in 2006 and 2008. The agreement aims to boost trade between India and countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain.