ET Graphics: India, EU to hold 13th round of FTA talks in Delhi; pact likely by year-end

European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maroš Šefcovic, is also expected to visit India later this week as both sides attempt to finalize the trade pact by the end of the year.

India cautioned against weaponizing export measures at the SCO trade ministers’ meeting, emphasizing the need for fair trade practices and a functional WTO. India highlighted diversifying supply chains, addressing trade imbalances, and ensuring climate measures don’t discriminate. The nation also proposed SCO workstreams for the digital economy and spotlighted the AVGC sector’s potential.

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich’s upcoming visit to India aims to strengthen economic ties, with the signing of a bilateral investment treaty (BIT) expected. This BIT seeks to protect investors and boost confidence through assured treatment and dispute resolution. Discussions will also lay the groundwork for a free trade agreement (FTA) to further enhance trade […]

India and the European Union are set to intensify negotiations for a free trade agreement, aiming to resolve differences on rules of origin, market access, and duties. High-level meetings are planned, including visits by EU officials and committees, to finalize the deal by year-end.

Indian Ambassador to Japan Sibi George has expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the support he received in strengthening India-Japan relations during his tenure in the country, as he prepares to leave his post, the Japan Times reported.

India’s exports of the newly-exempt 50-odd items amount to about $20 million annually. The products include highly specialised: nitrile compounds used in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals; nickel waste and scrap recycled into stainless steel and batteries; lidocaine, a local anaesthetic; nick el powders for catalysts and 3D printing; nickel flakes used in conductive coatings; and high-purity […]

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggests India will eventually seek a deal with Donald Trump, despite current tensions over Russian oil purchases. Lutnick criticized India’s increased reliance on discounted Russian oil and its role in BRICS, urging New Delhi to align with the US. He believes economic realities will compel India to prioritize its relationship […]

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick suggests India will eventually seek a deal with Donald Trump, despite current tensions over Russian oil purchases. Lutnick criticized India’s increased reliance on discounted Russian oil and its role in BRICS, urging New Delhi to align with the US. He believes economic realities will compel India to prioritize its relationship […]

Peter Navarro, trade advisor to Donald Trump, is stirring controversy by supporting tariffs on foreign remote workers, potentially impacting India’s IT services exports. This move resonates with Trump’s “America First” agenda, targeting Indian tech workers and outsourcing. While formal tariffs may be challenging, non-tariff barriers could be employed, posing a threat to India’s $250+ billion […]

Peter Navarro, trade advisor to Donald Trump, is stirring controversy by supporting tariffs on foreign remote workers, potentially impacting India’s IT services exports. This move resonates with Trump’s “America First” agenda, targeting Indian tech workers and outsourcing. While formal tariffs may be challenging, non-tariff barriers could be employed, posing a threat to India’s $250+ billion […]