India, US discuss expediting conclusion of first phase of trade pact

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in Washington to accelerate negotiations for the initial phase of the India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement. Discussions aim to finalize the first phase by fall, focusing on market access and non-tariff barriers.

A recent Allianz Trade survey reveals a significant shift in exporter sentiment following the implementation of new U.S. tariffs. The survey, conducted across nine countries, indicates that 42% of companies now anticipate a decline in export revenues, a stark contrast to the pre-tariff optimism.

India’s mango exports to the US are growing rapidly, reaching $10.01 million in FY24, up 130% from the previous year. A key irradiation facility in Mumbai, which processes the highest volume of mangoes for the US market, faced a brief disruption due to a data recording error in early May 2025. This led to the […]

The government is set to tighten import regulations on small consumer appliances and electronic lifestyle items, primarily from China, by enforcing stricter product safety standards. A recent order mandates BIS certification for a range of electrical goods, including recliners, beauty products, and kitchen appliances, effective March 2026.

India has restricted gold and silver imports in specific forms to curb misuse of the India-UAE CEPA. The move, following a Budget FY26 announcement, aims to prevent gold imports disguised as platinum alloys to exploit lower duties.

India’s GeM is set to introduce global tendering features this year, spurred by the FTA with the UK, which allows UK suppliers to bid for Indian tenders as Class II local suppliers. This move aims to tap into the UK market and facilitate transactions worth Rs 7 lakh crore in 2025-26.

India and the US are in talks for a trade agreement. The deal may happen in three stages. An initial agreement is expected before July. It will cover industrial goods and farm products. Piyush Goyal is in Washington for discussions. A broader deal is planned around September. The final agreement needs US Congress approval. Negotiations […]

India and Bangladesh face trade tensions. India restricted several Bangladeshi imports via land ports. This followed Bangladesh’s earlier restrictions on Indian goods. Bangladesh wants to resolve these trade problems through discussion. The new Indian directive impacts goods worth USD 770 million. Ready-made garments from Bangladesh can now only be imported through Nhava Sheva and Kolkata […]

The commerce ministry’s DGTR has suggested a USD 733 per tonne anti-dumping duty on Thiram imports from the EU for five years. This action is in response to an application by Swarup Chemicals Pvt Ltd, aiming to protect domestic industry from injury caused by dumped imports. The finance ministry will make the final decision.

India bans garment imports from Bangladesh via land routes. This decision aims to boost local textile manufacturing. The move could generate over ₹1,000 crore for Indian businesses. Some branded garments might face supply issues, potentially raising prices slightly. The industry anticipates reduced backdoor entry of Chinese fabrics. Supply chains will likely experience short-term disruptions.