free trade agreement

India faces pressure from the EU and US to adopt data exclusivity in trade deals, but a GTRI report warns this could harm its agrochemical industry. Such provisions would create extended monopolies, delay generic pesticide approvals, increase import reliance, and raise costs for farmers, potentially undermining a key export sector.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the Netherlands for the second leg of his five-nation tour, aiming to deepen bilateral ties. He will hold talks with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, call on King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, and address the Indian community.

US courts have again blocked Trump's 10% global tariffs, deeming them unauthorized. This ruling, following earlier tariff invalidations, signals a return to WTO's MFN rates. For India, this policy instability raises concerns, prompting advice to pause free trade agreement talks until US trade systems stabilize, preventing one-sided deals.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins a significant five-nation tour. He will visit the United Arab Emirates, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, and Italy. The visits aim to boost India's engagement with Europe and the Gulf region. Discussions will focus on trade, investment, energy, and technology. This tour underscores India's growing global partnerships.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal urged Indian industry to embrace self-efficiency and productivity amidst global challenges. He emphasized reducing import dependence, leveraging free trade agreements, and moving from "assembled in India" to "designed, engineered, and manufactured in India" to strengthen the economy and achieve export targets.

The India-New Zealand FTA highlights that the provisions on student mobility, professional pathways, working holiday visa creates an unprecedented opportunity for Indian youth and professionals to gain global exposure.

India has significantly increased import tariffs on gold and silver to 15% from 6% to curb imports and protect foreign exchange reserves. This move follows Prime Minister Modi's appeal for citizens to avoid gold purchases for a year, aiming to narrow the trade deficit and support the rupee amid global economic pressures.

Mitsui OSK Lines anticipates further container rate increases due to a gap between rising bunker oil costs and freight rates, particularly in Asia. While a prolonged conflict could impact demand, the company remains bullish on India's growth, expanding its fleet for energy and vehicle transport.

Jaguar Land Rover India has slashed prices on UK-built Range Rover models, passing on free trade agreement benefits. The Range Rover SV now costs Rs 75 lakh less, starting at Rs 3.50 crore, while the Range Rover Sport SV sees a Rs 40 lakh reduction. This move makes these luxury SUVs more accessible, with updated pricing effective immediately.

India-New Zealand FTA: It aims to double bilateral trade, provide Indian exporters duty-free access to the New Zealand market, and attract investments worth $20 billion over the next 15 years.

The agreement was signed between Union commerce and industry minister Piyush Goyal and New Zealand’s minister for trade and investment Todd McClay.

India and New Zealand are set to sign a free trade agreement on April 27, aiming to boost bilateral trade to $5 billion within five years. The pact will offer duty-free access for many Indian exports, benefiting sectors like Agra's leather industry. New Zealand gains tariff reductions on key products, while India protects sensitive agricultural goods.

India and New Zealand have signed a 'once-in-a-generation' trade pact, granting Indian exporters duty-free access to New Zealand. The agreement aims to double bilateral trade to $5 billion in five years and includes a $20 billion investment commitment from New Zealand. Both nations are optimistic about the pact's potential to boost economic growth and cooperation across various sectors.

Tamil Nadu's business landscape remains optimistic despite political shifts, with leaders banking on the state's strong institutions and manufacturing prowess. The new chief minister's assurance of continuity and a corruption-free administration has calmed investor nerves, fostering hope for sustained industrial growth and job creation.