Paraguay has been selected to chair the 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, scheduled to take place in Bangkok. The decision marks a significant moment for Paraguay, highlighting its growing role in global economic governance. The IMF-World Bank Annual Meetings bring together finance ministers, central bank governors, and policymakers from around the world to discuss pressing economic issues. Topics typically include global growth, financial stability, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. As chair, Paraguay will play a key role in shapi
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal unveiled the “Agra: World Capital of Footwear” campaign, positioning the historic city as a global manufacturing and export hub. The initiative comes at a strategic time as India advances negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with New Zealand, aiming to boost bilateral trade and open new markets for Indian products. Agra, long known for its leather and footwear industry, contributes significantly to India’s exports in this sector. The campaign seeks to modernize the industry through branding, innovation, and improved global ou
India’s textile exports witnessed strong growth in FY26, driven largely by the performance of the ready-made garments (RMG) sector. The segment accounted for a significant share of total exports, reflecting rising global demand for Indian apparel. Industry data indicates that competitive pricing, improved quality standards, and diversification of export markets have contributed to the sector’s expansion. Indian manufacturers have also benefited from government initiatives aimed at boosting textile production and exports. The growth in ready-made garment exports has been particularly
India has emerged as the fastest-growing export destination for Sri Lanka in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting strengthening trade ties between the neighboring countries. The surge in exports highlights India’s growing importance as a key market for Sri Lankan goods. According to trade data, several sectors contributed to the increase, including textiles, agricultural products, and industrial goods. Improved logistics, favorable trade agreements, and geographic proximity have played a crucial role in facilitating this growth. India’s expanding economy and rising consumer demand
India has initiated discussions with Nepal to enhance bilateral energy cooperation, engaging with the government led by Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Shah. The talks focused on expanding collaboration in hydropower, electricity trade, and renewable energy development. Nepal, endowed with vast hydropower potential, has emerged as a key partner for India in the regional energy landscape. Indian officials emphasized the importance of strengthening cross-border transmission infrastructure to facilitate increased electricity trade between the two countries. The discussions also explored opportuni
India and New Zealand are on the verge of signing a long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA), marking what Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal described as a “new chapter” in bilateral economic relations. The agreement is expected to significantly enhance trade flows, improve market access, and strengthen investment opportunities between the two nations. Negotiations for the FTA have progressed steadily, with both countries working to resolve key issues related to tariffs, services, and regulatory standards. The deal is likely to benefit sectors such as agriculture, dairy, educa
India’s marine exports reached a record Rs 72,326 crore in FY26, demonstrating resilience despite challenges such as US tariffs and disruptions in West Asia. The milestone reflects strong demand for Indian seafood in global markets and the sector’s adaptability to changing trade conditions. Exporters navigated logistical and geopolitical hurdles by diversifying markets and improving supply chain efficiency. Increased focus on quality standards and value-added products also contributed to the growth. The United States remained a key market, even as tariff-related challenges persisted
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a four-nation tour of Europe in May, marking a significant diplomatic outreach following progress in negotiations for the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The visit is expected to include key European partners and aims to strengthen economic and strategic ties. This will be the first such multi-country European visit by PM Modi after renewed momentum in India-EU trade discussions. The FTA, currently under negotiation, seeks to enhance market access, boost investments, and facilitate smoother trade flows between India
Japan has taken a significant policy step by revising its long-standing defence export restrictions, effectively opening the door to participation in the global arms market. The move marks a departure from decades of pacifist policy that limited the country’s role in international defence trade. The revised framework allows Japan to export certain categories of defence equipment and technology under stricter guidelines, particularly to allied and partner nations. The decision is seen as part of a broader effort to strengthen national security and enhance defence cooperation amid rising r
India and South Korea have initiated discussions to revamp their existing trade agreement, the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with the aim of enhancing bilateral trade and addressing long-standing concerns. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal held talks with South Korea’s Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo, focusing on making the agreement more balanced and mutually beneficial. Both sides acknowledged that while CEPA has contributed to increased trade since its implementation in 2010, there remain gaps, particularly in addressing trade imbalances and improving