India's Trade Agreement Architecture
India has adopted a multi-track approach to trade agreements, pursuing bilateral CEPAs, regional agreements (like AIFTA with ASEAN), and sector-specific deals. This architecture reflects India's strategy of deepening economic integration with strategic partners while maintaining policy space on sensitive sectors.
- India withdrew from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in November 2019 over concerns about cheap Chinese imports and an adverse impact on domestic manufacturing and agriculture.
- India's existing FTAs/CEPAs include agreements with ASEAN (2010), South Korea (2010), Japan (2011), Singapore (CECA, 2005), UAE (2022), Australia (ECTA, 2022), and EFTA (2024).
- The "Look West" policy, complementing the "Act East" policy, has gained momentum with the UAE CEPA and the proposed IMEC, positioning the Gulf region as a key pillar of India's trade diversification.
- India's total merchandise exports crossed $437 billion in FY 2023-24, with the UAE being India's third-largest trading partner.
● Tracked since February 16, 2026 · last seen July 10, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes
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