India’s merchandise trade tilted in the wrong direction: NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam

Releasing the NITI Aayog’s Trade Watch quarterly report for January-March quarter of 2024-25 on Monday, NITI Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam said India needs to remap up presence in intermediates, strengthen trade with its neighbours, remove non-trade barriers and improve other factors of production including land and labour.

Niti Aayog CEO BVR Subrahmanyam expressed optimism about an imminent India-US trade agreement, highlighting mutual commitment. He also advocated for India to lower tariffs and market barriers to boost manufacturing competitiveness. While US tariffs haven’t impacted exports yet, future trade could be challenging if the deal isn’t finalized by November.

Erik Berglof from AIIB suggests India deepen trade ties with Asian nations. He advises revisiting the CPTPP decision for economic benefits. India must focus on drawing investments, especially in infrastructure. Increasing women’s workforce participation is vital for growth. Coordinating state-level green transition efforts will also be key. These steps can counter US tariffs.

Chinese expert Liqing Zhang stated China could import more from India if New Delhi joins the RCEP and becomes more open to Beijing. He emphasized RCEP’s potential to boost Indian goods’ competitiveness and bilateral trade, urging India to reconsider its stance.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal will visit Doha, Qatar, on October 6, 2025, for a two-day meeting of the Qatar-India Joint Commission on Trade and Commerce. Co-chaired with Qatar’s Minister, this visit underscores India’s commitment to strengthening trade and investment ties with Qatar, a key GCC partner with bilateral trade projected to exceed USD 14 billion.

India and Qatar are set to discuss a free trade agreement (FTA) and finalize Terms of Reference for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) during Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s visit to Doha. This initiative aims to bolster economic cooperation, review trade, address barriers, and enhance investment, building on over $14 billion in bilateral trade.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will visit Mumbai next week. This marks his first official trip to India. The visit will focus on the growing economic partnership. Implementation of the free trade agreement is a key agenda item. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Starmer will review progress. They will also engage with business leaders.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Saturday highlighted the need for greater collaboration between Indian and Singaporean businesses to strengthen trade and investment ties. Speaking at the India-Singapore@60: Partnership for Growth and Innovation business event, Goyal emphasised building a more balanced, inclusive, and future-ready economic partnership. He said, “Highlighted greater collaboration and B2B opportunities […]

Economist Andres Velasco labels US tariffs on India a strategic blunder. He highlights India’s rising global importance. Velasco advises India to pursue further economic reforms. He suggests addressing non-tariff barriers and simplifying its tax system. Velasco emphasises continuous innovation for India’s sustained growth. This strategy helps India overcome global challenges.

India-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations show challenges. Divergence of views exists despite recent talks. The EU ambassador stated both sides are working hard for a trade pact. A conclusion is expected by year-end. This trade deal aims to boost investment and diversify trade. It will create opportunities for businesses.