India, New Zealand announce resumption of FTA talks

India and New Zealand have resumed negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement after a decade-long hiatus. The agreement aims to enhance trade in goods, services, and investments, potentially unlocking new business opportunities and improving market access. The discussions will focus on balancing outcomes that benefit both nations.

India and New Zealand resume negotiations for a free trade agreement after efforts stalled in 2015 over issues like dairy and agriculture. The renewed talks aim to boost trade, services, and investment, fostering mutual economic growth. Indian goods exports to New Zealand hit $494.44 million during April-December FY25.

India seeks to enhance its export potential in the proposed FTA with the EU by aiming for reciprocal concessions, particularly in the medical devices sector. Current negotiations are imbalanced, with the EU imposing stringent regulatory barriers, making it difficult for Indian exporters to access the EU market.

India’s merchandise trade deficit is set to face pressure in fiscal year 2026 due to strong domestic private consumption inflating imports, and potential export declines amid a slowing global and US economy. The resilient service trade surplus will offer some cushion, but heightened risks from US tariffs persist.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal had a productive discussion with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on a bilateral trade agreement, emphasizing ‘India First’ and ‘Viksit Bharat’. Leaders set a target to boost bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030, aiming for fairness and job creation, while discussing tariff reciprocity.

In 2024, China and India surpassed global trade norms, driven by developing economies and robust services trade. Despite record expansion, the UN Trade and Development warns of rising protectionism and emerging trade imbalances. As geopolitical tensions and shifting policies threaten stability, balanced policies and global cooperation are crucial for maintaining long-term growth and preventing economic […]

The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) recommends anti-dumping duty of up to USD 20.87 per kilogram on imports of ‘Vitamin A Palmitate’ from China, the EU, and Switzerland to protect domestic industry. The DGTR also suggests a duty of up to USD 358 per tonne on ‘Insoluble Sulphur’ from China and Japan for five […]

America’s Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, stated that India blocks U.S. farmers’ products and emphasized that President Trump aims to negotiate with countries like India that hinder access to global markets. He praised the UK and Mexico for avoiding retaliation against U.S. tariffs but warned that countries upsetting Trump could face severe responses.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal reassured exporters in sectors like leather and textiles regarding US tariff threats during a virtual meeting. Officials highlighted the ongoing bilateral trade agreement talks with the US. Concerns over potential US reciprocal tariffs impacting exports were discussed, along with exploring opportunities arising from the tariff war. Various suggestions to boost exports […]

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal reassured exporters of safeguarding India’s interests in the US Bilateral Trade Agreement. He urged against protectionism, encouraged industry input on export-promotion, and discussed measures to counter Chinese dumping. With plans to surpass $800 billion exports, Goyal highlighted ongoing efforts to finalize beneficial trade agreements and ensure market access for Indian goods […]