PREFERENTIAL TRADE AGREEMENT
Piyush Goyal pitches India as safe investment haven amid global turmoil, highlights $85 trillion market access
Union Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted India's commitment to global investors through stable policies and fair laws. He emphasized that India has signed trade agreements benefitting nearly $70 trillion of global GDP, expanding market access for its goods and services. Goyal assured investors about intellectual property protection, underlining that technology is not appropriated. He noted India's reliability demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic by supplying essential goods to over 100 countries.
IIFL Finance shares rally 5% as Blackstone leads Rs 6,414 crore capital infusion
IIFL Finance shares surged on Wednesday after the company announced a Rs 6,414 crore capital infusion led by Blackstone, which will invest Rs 5,000 crore. The fundraise, also involving promoter investments and Anchorage Capital, aims to strengthen capital adequacy, lower funding costs and accelerate growth in secured lending.
India drawing up list of export snags in South Asia
India is identifying regulatory and market-access barriers in seven South Asian countries to expand exports and reach its $1-trillion target. Merchandise exports to these markets fell 1.3% to $25.7 billion in FY26. The government is examining certification delays, tariffs and product standards while exploring opportunities in chemicals, pharmaceuticals and textiles.
India well on track to achieve $1 trillion exports target for FY27: Piyush Goyal
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said India is on track to achieve its $1 trillion goods and services export target in FY27, having already recorded nearly $480 billion in exports during April-September. He highlighted opportunities from free trade agreements, particularly the proposed India-EU pact, for the automobile and mobility sectors. Goyal urged manufacturers to expand globally, boost competitiveness and leverage international partnerships to drive exports, investment and employment.
Trump's midterm setback may put India under pressure for quick trade deal on US terms: GTRI
Amid electoral challenges, US President Donald Trump is likely to ramp up pressure on India to seal a trade deal. This potential agreement would require India to decrease import tariffs on US goods while the US keeps its tariffs intact. Analysts caution that such an arrangement may breach WTO MFN principles, undermining India's trade credibility. Additionally, compromising energy security and development aspirations could have serious implications.
India has never allowed genetically modified products' import, won't do in future: Piyush Goyal
India continues to maintain a strict policy against the import of genetically modified products, as stated by Minister Piyush Goyal. He highlighted that the dairy sector remains particularly sensitive and has not been opened in trade agreements. Goyal emphasized India's commitment to protecting its agricultural and fisheries sectors while seeking preferential market access for textiles and pharmaceuticals.
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India has never allowed import of GM products, will never open dairy sector: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized India’s commitment to safeguarding its dairy sector from free trade agreement pressures. He reiterated the nation's opposition to imports of genetically modified products, considering them sensitive. Goyal mentioned efforts to unlock new employment opportunities and promote domestic agriculture for competitive exports.
India-New Zealand FTA: Expanding India’s footprint in Oceania
More than a trade deal, the India-New Zealand FTA is a strategic gateway to new markets, fresh investment and stronger capabilities, positioning India to compete, connect, and grow across the Asia-Pacific.
India can achieve $1 trillion exports target this fiscal despite global headwinds: Piyush Goyal
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal expressed confidence that India would achieve its $1 trillion exports target in 2026-27 despite global uncertainties. He said nine FTAs could open preferential market access to economies with a combined GDP of $60 trillion. Goods and services exports were estimated at $476.2 billion in April-September.
India’s FTAs to open access to $85 trillion market; Piyush Goyal urges exporters to go global
India's trade agreements are expected to provide exporters preferential access to markets with a combined GDP of $85 trillion, covering 76% of the global economy, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said. He urged businesses to expand internationally, improve product quality and build global brands as India pursues additional trade pacts.
US trade deal will protect all sensitive Indian interests, says Piyush Goyal
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said India’s trade deal with the US would protect sensitive interests, including those of farmers, and give the country a competitive advantage. He criticised opposition parties for questioning the agreement before its details were released, while defending India’s trade strategy and its decision to stay out of RCEP.
India, Mexico begin talks for trade pact; aim to boost commerce, investments
India and Mexico have initiated negotiations for a preferential trade agreement to enhance bilateral trade and investment. The agreement aims to create new economic opportunities while addressing market access, customs procedures, and trade facilitation. Discussions included organising a Mexican business mission to India in early 2027 to improve commercial ties. India had a trade surplus with Mexico, largely due to exports in autos and pharmaceuticals.
India, Mexico sign terms of reference to kickstart trade pact negotiations
India and Mexico have signed the Terms of Reference to initiate negotiations on a Preferential Trade Agreement. This agreement aims to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities between the two countries. Key negotiating areas include market access, customs procedures, and trade facilitation measures. Both delegations discussed organizing a Mexican business mission to India in early 2027.
India to emerge as major exporter to China, ASEAN, get edge in US trade pact, says Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted India's potential to expand exports to China and ASEAN. Negotiations are underway for a trade pact with the United States that could provide India a comparative advantage. The country is also working towards an Investment Protection Agreement with the European Union. Goyal indicated that discussions for preferential trade agreements are progressing with multiple countries and groups.
US, Brazil and Israel elections put India’s trade worth billions in focus
Recent elections in the US, Brazil, and Israel may impact India's trade negotiations and economic partnerships. The US is close to finalizing a trade pact, which could affect Indian exports significantly. Brazil's growing economic relationship with India is leading to ambitious trade targets between the two nations. In Israel, the continuation of defense cooperation and negotiations for a free trade agreement are crucial for India.
Piyush Goyal says India-Chile FTA talks ' quite ripe' for conclusion, Canada negotiations making progress
India is making progress on free trade agreements (FTAs) with several countries, with negotiations with Chile nearing conclusion and talks with Canada advancing, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has said. Discussions with the Southern African Customs Union have recently begun, while efforts to expand trade arrangements with Mercosur continue. Talks with the Gulf Cooperation Council and Israel remain slow amid the West Asia crisis.
India's gold import route changing course for a benefit all jewellers want
India is diversifying its gold import sources as expanding domestic refining capacity, tax incentives and the India-UAE trade pact reshape supply chains. Switzerland’s share of India’s bullion imports fell to 21.9% in FY26 from 42.4% five years earlier, while the UAE’s share rose to 16.5% from 10.8%, according to Crisil Intelligence.
India's Scotch probe of Diageo, Pernod undermining India-UK pact benefits, trade group says
The British government said "iconic UK products" like whiskies would benefit from the pact. Indian investigators, however, have privately told companies the reduced rate does not apply to bulk Scotch concentrates, creating the first significant dispute over the free trade agreement since it took effect.
India-NZ FTA in force: Over half of New Zealand’s exports to India now tariff-free, Wellington also eyes Brazil, Canada
New Zealand is working to strengthen trade relations with Brazil and Canada in response to economic uncertainties. The country expects to complete the first New Zealand-Brazil Trade and Investment Dialogue after upcoming elections. A new free trade agreement with India has been implemented, making more than half of exports tariff-free. The agreement will benefit various products, including sheep meat and wool, as well as local businesses.
India eyes a $20 billion pot of gold in New Zealand as its trade pact goes live
The free trade agreement between India and New Zealand promises to promote trade and enhance professional movement. While some goods may enjoy duty-free status, a significant rise in merchandise exports might take time. However, New Zealand's engagement in several service sectors holds potential benefits for Indian companies. The agreement also opens up new job opportunities for Indian students and creates pathways for skilled professionals.
India’s $100 billion European Free Trade Association cheque is slow to clear as Vietnam joins the club
Vietnam recently signed a free trade agreement with the European Free Trade Association, expanding its trade network. This agreement comes as India's interaction with EFTA continues to evolve, with potential impacts on competition. Both countries aim to enhance exports to these markets despite different timelines of agreement enactment.
India-New Zealand trade pact: INZCCI calls on companies to turn market access into opportunity
This agreement opens new doors for trade, investment, and partnerships, especially benefitting small and medium-sized enterprises. Companies are urged to seek pertinent information and ask crucial questions to thrive.
India notifies first tariff cuts under New Zealand FTA
India will implement duty concessions for certain imports from New Zealand starting October 20, under a new FTA. The concessions include zero basic customs duty for sheep meat and specific rates for fish and wine. Additionally, provisions have been made for manuka honey and kiwi fruit imports with varying duties. Sensitive categories like dairy products are excluded from this trade liberalization agreement.
India notifies first New Zealand FTA duty cuts; sheep meat gets zero duty, kiwi fruit at 15%
India has notified the first set of customs duty concessions for imports from New Zealand under their free trade agreement, effective October 20. The preferential rates cover products such as wine, manuka honey, kiwi fruit and sheep meat, with limited quantities of select goods allowed under tariff-rate quotas and dairy and other sensitive sectors excluded.
Commerce Ministry organizes “Leveraging FTAs” outreach program in Jaipur to boost exports
The Commerce Ministry organized an outreach event in Jaipur, targeting exporters to clarify the use of benefits provided by India's free trade agreements. This initiative aims to translate preferential market access into tangible export opportunities for Indian enterprises, emphasizing Rajasthan's strengths in textiles, handicrafts, and gems. Plans for coordination among stakeholders are outlined to optimize support for exporters moving forward.
India-US trade pact in last leg of legal drafting, says Piyush Goyal
India is currently in the final stages of legal drafting for a trade agreement with the US, which is expected to be operational soon. The agreement, following sessions with US trade representatives, aims to ensure preferential access for Indian exporters. Indian officials hope for tariff stability and seek resolution on outstanding issues before the deal is signed.
Indian trade secretary Rajesh Agrawal says first phase of US trade deal finalised
India's trade secretary announced that the first phase of a trade deal with the United States is finalized. Legal drafting for the deal is currently taking place, signaling progress in negotiations. The anticipated agreement aims for preferential market access and greater tariff stability for India. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans to visit India to discuss further economic ties and energy cooperation.
India, US lock first phase of trade pact; legal drafting underway: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced the finalization of the first phase of the India-US trade pact. This phase is currently undergoing legal drafting, with hopes for quick finalization and operationalization. He emphasized the need for India to secure a competitive advantage over its peer countries before implementation. Additionally, Goyal stated the free trade agreement with the European Union will be signed in December.
Piyush Goyal pitches India as manufacturing, innovation base for Canadian businesses
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has urged Canadian businesses to utilize India's manufacturing capabilities. He highlighted the potential for production and exports to global markets beyond India's domestic market. Goyal emphasized India's preferential trade agreements that enhance market access to approximately USD 85 trillion of global GDP. He encouraged bilateral commercial engagements ahead of finalizing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
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