Category: international trade
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India-US FTA: The Tense Countdown to Tariffs and Trade Choices
As the world watches with bated breath, India and the United States find themselves at the crossroads of a historic trade negotiation. With the July 9, 2025 deadline looming, the prospect of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries—once hailed as a defining feature of a new era…
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Tariff Policy for India’s Trade and Industrial Growth
India’s tariff policy has long been the subject of debate among economists, policymakers, and trade negotiators. At the heart of the discussion lies the fact that India’s simple average tariff during the past decade has hovered between 8% and 11%, far higher than the 2%–3% average seen in the United…
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Unlocking India’s Export Potential in Furniture and Wood Products: A Cluster-Based Perspective
India’s furniture and wood products sector stands at the confluence of traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation, offering a broad spectrum of products that cater to domestic as well as international markets. With materials ranging from solid woods like Sheesham and Mango to engineered wood and eco-friendly composites, the Indian furniture…
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Navigating the U.S.-India Trade Landscape: Opportunities and Challenges for Indian Exporters
As the U.S. and India continue their complex and high-stakes trade discussions, the implications for Indian exporters are both promising and challenging. These dialogues are more than just bilateral negotiations—they are a reflection of shifting global trade dynamics, changing consumer patterns, and strategic realignments in supply chains. For Indian exporters,…
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Is There a Real Alternative to China in Apparel?
The global apparel industry is undergoing a significant transformation as retailers and fashion brands re-evaluate their sourcing strategies to reduce dependency on China. The reasons are manifold: rising labor costs in China, increasing geopolitical tensions, trade tariffs, and the desire to diversify supply chains following the COVID-19 disruptions. But the…
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India’s Free Trade Agreements: Which Ones Matter Most and Why
India’s growing role in the global economy has been significantly influenced by its proactive stance in signing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Comprehensive Economic Partnership/Cooperation Agreements (CEPA/CECA). These agreements serve as crucial tools in expanding market access, attracting investment, and enhancing India’s competitiveness in both regional and global trade landscapes.…
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How the India-EFTA Trade Agreement Will Boost Indian Exports to Europe
The India-European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA), signed in March 2024, marks a pivotal milestone in India’s global trade strategy. It is poised to provide Indian exports with unprecedented access to some of Europe’s wealthiest markets—Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. More than just a trade…
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“Global Retail and Wholesale Trade: Driving Growth and Innovation in 2025 and Beyond”
The retail and wholesale trade industry, a cornerstone of the global economy, is projected to see significant growth in the coming years. In 2025, the combined global market for retail and wholesale is valued at approximately $92.6 trillion, up from $85.8 trillion in 2024, reflecting a compound annual growth rate…