BS EDIT: India’s shift to bilateralism: Adapting to a new global order

By Business StandardPublished On Mar 3, 2025

The end of multilateralism?

Global trade is shifting towards bilateral deals

India must adapt to protect its interests

What’s driving the shift?

Protectionism & weak global institutions (WTO, WHO)

US withdrawal from key agreements

Bilateral deals: The challenge

Power imbalance favors larger economies

India’s low trade share limits leverage

India’s strategy

Join plurilateral groups for support

Strengthen trade negotiation capacity

Improve policy coordination

EU-India FTA: A key test

High-level talks signal India’s commitment

Timely completion will shape future deals

What’s next?

Make strategic concessions in trade talks

Move from vetoing to bargaining

Prioritise key FTAs, starting with the EU