Commerce ministry likely to soften stance on 21st century issues at WTO

The commerce secretary said including 21st century issues in bilateral deals would bring both opportunities and challenges for Indian industry

The commerce ministry has hinted at a gradual softening of stance on contentious trade issues such as government procurement, e-commerce, and the environment at the World Trade Organization (WTO), by first negotiating such deals bilaterally with countries under ongoing free-trade agreements (FTAs).

A large number of countries are negotiating plurilaterals or joint-statement initiatives on 21st century issues such as e-commerce, the environment, and investment facilitation at the WTO. This India has challenged, holding that they do not have the sanction of the multilateral body and must not lead to modifications to its rule book.

On Wednesday, co-sponsors of three new environmental initiatives