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 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, […]

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 […]

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 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 […]

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 […]

A bipartisan bill in the US Senate, the Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025, threatens India with 500% tariffs for continuing to purchase Russian oil, aiming to cripple Russia’s energy revenue. While the bill gains traction, the Trump administration resists, fearing it will undermine efforts to mend US-Russia relations and mediate an end to the Ukraine […]

India is watching the US-Iran-Israel conflict closely. Officials are concerned about potential maritime disruptions. Indian ships and seafarers are advised to be cautious in the Strait of Hormuz. There is no immediate threat to Indian vessels. Tensions are high after attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities. Electronic interference is affecting navigation in the Central Arabian Gulf.

Escalating tensions between Iran and Israel pose a threat to India’s energy security, potentially triggering a surge in oil prices and subsequent inflation. Experts caution that oil reaching $100 per barrel could elevate both wholesale and retail inflation. While oil marketing companies might moderate the retail impact, sustained high prices over nine months could significantly […]

India is closely monitoring insurance and freight costs due to the West Asia conflict. Iran’s parliament considered closing the Strait of Hormuz. This could impact global oil shipments and raise costs. Exporters fear higher insurance premiums and freight charges. Alternative routes would be expensive. Industries relying on global supply chains may face shortages. Tensions are […]