THINK TANK GTRI
EU’s CBAM expansion to impact Indian engg, auto parts, machinery exports: GTRI
India's exports of engineering goods, auto parts, and machinery to Europe face potential carbon tax hikes as the EU expands its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. Starting 2028, the CBAM will cover a wider range of manufactured industrial goods, including stricter rules for recycled materials. This move could significantly impact Indian manufacturers exporting to the bloc.
EU's proposed CBAM expansion may impact Indian exporters: GTRI
The European Union is set to broaden its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which could lead to a spike in carbon tax expenses for Indian goods shipped to Europe. Exporters in India must quickly adapt by enhancing their emissions tracking and implementing decarbonisation strategies.
Electronics imports cross USD 100 billion in 2025-26: Commerce Ministry
India's electronics imports surged past 100 billion US dollars in 2025-26. This marks a significant increase from the previous fiscal year. Despite a manufacturing push, the country remains reliant on imported components. Electronics exports also saw growth, driven by smartphone shipments, but imports continue to outpace them.
Govt should cap charges of product testing under quality control order: GTRI
High testing and certification costs for Quality Control Orders (QCOs) are pushing many MSME importers out of business, according to GTRI. The think tank urged the government to cap testing charges and recognize foreign lab reports to support the 'Make in India' initiative and prevent market domination by large importers.
India largely shielded from US tariffs on patented drugs due to generic export strength: GTRI
New US tariffs on patented drugs will not significantly impact India. The country mainly exports affordable generic medicines to America. These generics are currently exempt from the tariffs. Indian firms producing specialized drugs or inputs for patented medicines may face pressure. Future uncertainty exists if tariffs extend to generics.
One battle after another: How India fared in the year of Trump tariffs
Beginning April 2025, India found itself navigating turbulent waters due to sweeping changes in US trade policy led by President Trump. The imposition of tariffs posed a substantial threat to Indian exports, prompting New Delhi to innovate through strategic diversification and robust domestic reforms.
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Non-violation complaints under WTO's TRIPS agreement: An explainer
World Trade Organisation members could not agree to extend a safeguard on intellectual property rules. This means the moratorium on non-violation complaints under the TRIPS Agreement has expired. This lapse creates immediate uncertainty and the risk of new disputes. The issue will now be discussed in Geneva.

WTO fails to reach consensus on key e-commerce moratorium, reforms
The WTO ministerial conference in Yaounde concluded without agreement on crucial trade issues. Key among these was the e-commerce import duty moratorium, which expired for the first time in 26 years. Talks also stalled on reforms for the global trade body. Discussions on intellectual property safeguards also failed to reach consensus.

WTO meet concludes; no consensus on extension of e-commerce duty moratorium
WTO talks: The talks at a WTO meeting in Cameroon were seeking to bridge differences over extending the e-commerce moratorium, and agree to a plan for broader reform of the organisation.

Sharp divide over e-commerce moratorium on customs duties in WTO: GTRI
A significant rift has emerged at the WTO ministerial conference in Cameroon over the e-commerce moratorium on customs duties, with the US advocating for a permanent extension while India and other developing nations resist due to revenue and policy concerns.

US forced labour probe targets China, may put India exports under scrutiny: GTRI
America has started a new trade investigation into forced labor. This probe covers 60 countries, including India and China. Beijing faces scrutiny over Xinjiang region allegations. Indian exports like solar panels, electronics, and garments to the US may also be examined. The US aims to ensure goods entering its market are not made with forced labor.

Eased FDI norms balance capital inflows and strategic safeguards: Experts
India's relaxed FDI norms for land-bordering countries aim to attract capital and technology while safeguarding interests. Experts highlight the pragmatic balance achieved, with a 60-day expedited approval for specified sectors and clarity on beneficial ownership, fostering supply-chain integration and boosting manufacturing.

West Asia conflict threatens India’s $11.8 billion agri exports: GTRI
India's agricultural exports to West Asia are under serious threat due to escalating regional conflicts. The turmoil is thwarting shipping routes and skyrocketing insurance costs, putting a staggering $11.8 billion in food products on the line. Key exports, including rice, bananas, and spices, are especially at risk, creating a climate of anxiety for Indian farmers and food processors.

From fertilisers to rice, pulses, tea and apples: Middle East conflict threatens India-Iran agri trade
India faces a potential squeeze as the war in Iran threatens shipments of rice and other agricultural commodities.

India’s $98 billion imports in hot water as West Asia tensions heat up
Middle East War: Rising tensions in West Asia threaten India’s $98.7 billion imports, including crude oil, LNG, fertilisers, diamonds, and industrial materials. Disruptions at Gulf ports and energy facilities could push up fuel and food prices, impact factories, and slow exports, warn analysts.

India, EU trade agreement includes model mediation procedures
India and the European Union have concluded negotiations for a free trade agreement. A key feature is an annexure for mediation to resolve disputes. This aims for a mutually agreed solution through an expeditious procedure. The pact is expected to be implemented next year. It will boost trade and create a market of two billion people.

US' 126% levy eclipses key market for Indian solar gear companies
Shares of major Indian solar manufacturers such as Waaree Energies, Premier Energies and Vikram Solar fell sharply on the bourses as investors priced in potential export headwinds.

India’s refund rollback lands exporters with a bigger bill
India has quietly raised the cost of exporting -- halving RoDTEP rebates that refund embedded taxes -- at a time when global demand is weak and competition is tightening, squeezing margins and testing exporters’ pricing power.

Sweeping tariffs gone but Trump's 15% global tariffs on. What to expect from markets on Monday?
Indian markets are set for a strong start following a US Supreme Court ruling. This decision removes Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs, benefiting export sectors like gems, jewellery, textiles, marine products, and pharmaceuticals. Auto sector action is also expected. Experts see this as a major sentiment booster, though they advise caution on potential Trump administration responses.

Exporters cautious after SC strikes down Trump tariffs, fear fresh moves
Indian exporters are observing developments after the US Supreme Court invalidated President Trump's tariffs. While this ruling offers potential refunds for duties paid, exporters remain cautious. They anticipate new tariffs may be introduced through different legal avenues. Clarity on the future trade landscape is expected next week. This situation could impact ongoing trade negotiations and existing export orders.

Exporters welcome US Supreme Court ruling on Trump tariffs
Indian exporters welcome the US Supreme Court's decision to strike down President Trump's tariffs. This ruling provides significant relief to domestic firms previously affected by country-specific duties. The decision restores predictability in bilateral trade between India and the US. Importers may seek refunds of duties paid. This opens avenues for more stable trade engagement.

Gold, silver import surge pushes India’s January trade deficit to 3-month high of $34.68 billion
Surging gold and silver imports widened India’s January trade deficit to $34.68 billion. Imports jumped 19% while exports barely grew, with services offering limited relief amid weak global demand.

A bite too big? Orchard anxiety for farmers as US apples could crowd Indian shelves
Apple cultivators in India stand at a crossroads as a recent trade agreement with the US and a surge in imported fruits jeopardise their existence. The local apple sector is grappling with soaring logistics expenses and significant losses post-harvest. There's an urgent call for transformative strategies to streamline supply chains and enhance productivity.

India gets unintended trade edge in Turkiye from EU FTA: GTRI
India's free trade agreement with the EU offers an unexpected advantage: Indian goods can now enter Turkiye duty-free via the EU. However, Turkish products cannot leverage the same pact for duty-free access into India, as only EU-origin goods qualify under the agreement's rules of origin.

India-EU FTA likely to expand trade rather than threaten domestic industry: GTRI
A new India-EU free trade agreement, set for announcement on January 27, is projected to boost trade and lower costs, according to think tank GTRI. The agreement is expected to benefit both economies due to their complementary roles in the global value chain, with India exporting labor-intensive goods and the EU supplying capital and technology.

Reduce customs duty slabs in Budget 2026: GTRI
India's customs duty structure needs simplification. The Global Trade Research Initiative suggests reducing the actual number of duty slabs, not just basic customs duty rates. This reform aims to boost ease of doing business. Current complexities hinder manufacturing and exports. Simplifying tariffs and processes is crucial for economic growth and competitiveness.

Trade deals driven by policy, not phone calls: GTRI after Lutnick remarks
A think tank argues that trade deals hinge on policy alignment, not leader calls. This challenges US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's claim that the India-US trade agreement stalled due to a missed phone call. GTRI asserts that complex negotiations break down over substantive issues like tariffs and market access. The trade impasse reflects hard policy choices, not symbolic gestures.

Global trade slowdown may expose India's export vulnerability: GTRI
Global trade is cooling, according to the World Trade Organization. India's exports are also falling, with major markets showing declines. This slowdown is linked to trade policy changes and rising domestic costs. The situation threatens to impact India's economy as global demand weakens. Experts warn of further erosion of trade volumes in the coming year.

India’s $15 bn oil exports to EU at risk amid new Russia sanctions
India’s petroleum exports worth $15 bn to the European Union may be at risk due to the EU's new sanctions targeting refined products made from Russian crude, even if processed in third countries. According to think tank GTRI, the move could impact countries like India, which imports large volumes of Russian oil and exports refined fuels to Europe, amid rising geopolitical pressure.
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