FM Nirmala Sitharaman calls EU free trade deal a ‘high priority’

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman expressed optimism about finalizing a free trade agreement with the European Union by the end of the year, emphasizing its high priority for both sides. While aiming for closer trade ties, she criticized the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Tax, viewing it as a neocolonial approach to climate policy.

Asian Development Bank’s chief economist Albert Park suggests India’s proposed trade liberalization, including tariff reductions with the US, could benefit the nation if implemented on an MFN basis. He emphasizes the need for regulatory reforms and infrastructure upgrades to attract foreign investment and capitalize on supply chain diversification opportunities.

President Trump announced that India has agreed to eliminate its high tariffs, a move he attributes to his negotiation skills. He emphasized that India would not have made such an agreement with anyone else. Trump also outlined his vision for trade relations, suggesting countries will pay for the privilege of accessing the US market.

The India-UK FTA is poised to significantly benefit India’s labor-intensive export sectors, including textiles, garments, leather, and gems & jewellery, by eliminating tariffs. Indian textiles and garments exporters, previously facing tariffs up to 12%, will gain zero-duty access, potentially boosting apparel exports. The FTA is expected to enhance market access, encourage technology exchange, and substantially […]

India has proposed eliminating tariffs on steel, auto components, and pharmaceuticals for a specific import quantity in trade negotiations with the US. Beyond that threshold, standard duties would apply. This offer aims to expedite a bilateral trade deal expected by fall, prioritizing certain sectors before the end of the US tariff pause.

Negotiations for the India-UK free trade agreement and other pacts face delays due to unresolved issues like the sunset clause in the BIT, UK’s carbon tax, and data localization. Despite recent high-level meetings and 14 rounds of talks, differences persist, preventing the anticipated closure on April 29.

According to Ajay Srivastava, the US has successfully framed India’s trade practices as the cause of the US trade deficit, pressuring India to increase purchases of American goods and ease regulations for US companies. Srivastava argues this perception is misleading, as the overall economic balance favors the US when considering arms sales, profits, and educational […]

The United States aims to reshape India’s trade policies. This is part of a proposed agreement. The US seeks tariff cuts and regulatory changes. These changes could benefit American firms. Key areas of focus include agriculture and dairy. The US wants changes to India’s minimum price support programs. They also want easier access for US […]

Deloitte India highlights that India’s liberal FDI policy offers stability and sector-agnostic opportunities, attracting global investors. Key sectors like pharmaceuticals, auto, and tourism are driving growth, supported by 100% FDI allowance in many areas. Increased FDI inflows and trade agreements further strengthen India’s position in global commerce, fostering investment and economic development.