PM Modi expected in UK on July 23-24 for FTA signing

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is anticipated to visit the United Kingdom on July 23-24, potentially marking the formal signing of the India-UK free trade agreement. Discussions are also expected to revolve around strengthening bilateral security cooperation. Following the UK visit, Modi will travel to the Maldives on July 25-26 as the Chief Guest for their […]

India and the UK are set to sign a long-awaited free trade agreement next week, according to two Indian government sources. The deal will provide Indian electric vehicles and textiles with duty-free access to the UK market, while easing tariffs on British exports such as whisky, cars, and food.

A high-level dialogue in Geneva, convened by CUTS International, addressed the fragility of the multilateral trading order and the importance of revitalizing the WTO, especially for African nations. Discussions centered on the AfCFTA’s implementation, attracting sustainable investment, and leveraging the upcoming MC14 in Cameroon to advance Africa’s developmental priorities.

The US has informed the WTO that India’s proposed retaliatory tariffs on American steel, aluminum, and automobiles lack a legal foundation. This stance comes after India asserted that US safeguard measures would significantly impact its exports, leading to substantial duty collections. The US defends its tariffs under a national security statute, even as bilateral trade […]

Around 50 developing nations support India’s stance on fisheries subsidies at the World Trade Organization. India advocates for per capita subsidies and special treatment for its fishermen. They seek a 25-year exemption from subsidy cuts. WTO members are negotiating Fish 2 to curb overfishing subsidies. India emphasizes sustainability over market access.

India and the UK are poised to formally sign a Free Trade Agreement next week, with legal reviews nearing completion. India anticipates duty-free access for 99% of its exports to the UK, boosting sectors like textiles and engineering.

The US has emerged as India’s top trade partner in the first quarter of FY26, dominating exports in electronics, marine goods, and readymade garments. A commerce department analysis reveals the US accounted for over 60% of India’s electronics exports and significant shares in the other sectors.

India and the US are actively engaged in trade negotiations, aiming to resolve outstanding issues for a potential deal, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. While the US seeks greater market access, India emphasizes that any agreement must align with its national interest and not be rushed.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has threatened India, China, and Brazil with 100% secondary sanctions if they continue trading with Russia. He urged these nations to pressure President Putin for serious peace talks with Ukraine.

India and the US are in talks for an interim trade deal. India is open to some GM farm imports. However, it restricts GM corn and soyabean imports. The US wants tariff cuts across sectors. This includes cars, dairy, and farm products. The aim is to finalise a deal before the Quad summit in India.