As FTAs loom, India must push sector-specific efficiencies in value chains

India's trade negotiations must be accompanied by sector-specific strategies to upgrade and align industries with global standards

The India-United States negotiations are reported to be “very close” to a trade deal (Business Standard, October 25, 2025). However, given that a trade deal with the US, when accomplished, will not be a World Trade Organization-compliant, legally-binding free trade agreement (FTA), the bilateral trade environment will continue to be ridden with uncertainty. The objective of export market diversification, therefore, remains paramount for India and FTAs can help achieve this objective.

 

So, it is encouraging to note that after having signed a comprehensive FTA with the United Kingdom (UK) earlier this year, India’s FTA negotiations