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
Vietnam and Singapore have taken significant steps to deepen cooperation in green growth and sustainable commerce through a dedicated business engagement programme. The initiative, titled “Sustainable Business Connection and Social Investment 2026,” brought together over 200 delegates from government bodies, industry associations, and businesses. The programme aimed to facilitate direct networking between enterprises and investors from both countries, promoting environmentally responsible trade and investment. Participants explored opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, food pro
India and Singapore are accelerating cooperation in the semiconductor sector, with a recent industry meet focusing on boosting investments and strengthening the electronics value chain. The engagement brought together key stakeholders from both countries to explore opportunities for collaboration in manufacturing, design, and supply chain integration. Singapore’s established expertise in semiconductor manufacturing and global supply chains complements India’s expanding industrial base, policy incentives, and large domestic market. The discussions highlighted how the two nations can lev
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal strengthened India’s global economic engagement through high-level meetings with leaders from South Korea and Austria. In a virtual interaction with South Korea’s Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral trade, investment flows, and technological collaboration. The discussions highlighted opportunities for deeper integration in emerging sectors and building resilient supply chains. On the European front, Goyal held in-person talks with Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker, co-chairi
India’s goods exports reached a record high of $442 billion in the financial year 2025-26, marking a significant milestone for the country’s trade sector. The achievement reflects strong global demand for Indian products and the government’s sustained efforts to boost exports. Key sectors contributing to the growth include engineering goods, petroleum products, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. The diversification of export markets and increased competitiveness of Indian industries have played a crucial role in driving the surge. Government initiatives, such as productio