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ICC USA: Select News-Views

Courtesy Media Groups
US-India Bilateral Free Trade Agreement FrameworkGCC-India Free Trade Agreement NegotiationsEU-India Sign Free Trade Agreement2025 News Cycles

India-US ITA framework promotes fair, equitable, and reciprocal trade between largest democracies.

 

India Chamber of Commerce USA
Feb. 7, 2026: Summary Report: India-US Interim Trade Agreement


Overview
The ITA framework addresses long-standing tariff barriers, enhances market access, and lays the foundation for deeper economic ties. The agreement protects sensitive domestic sectors in India while delivering significant gains for exporters, manufacturers, and service providers on both sides.


Key Provisions

  • Benefits for Indian Exports 
    • US tariffs on most Indian goods reduced to a reciprocal rate of 18% (down from punitive levels up to 50%). 
    • Complete tariff elimination on high-value Indian exports, including generic       pharmaceuticals, gems and jewelry, and aircraft components.
  • Market Access from India 
    • Elimination or substantial reduction of Indian tariffs on a wide range of US industrial goods and select agricultural products (e.g., dried distillers’ grains, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruits, soybean oil, wine, spirits, and animal feed). 
    • Carefully calibrated access that excludes sensitive items to protect Indian farmers       and domestic industries.
  • Additional Strategic Elements 
    • Encourage diversification of energy imports toward reliable US sources. 
    • Potential major procurement deals, including up to $80 billion in US aircraft (e.g., Boeing). 
    • Enhanced cooperation in textiles, apparel, technology, and supply-chain resilience.

The agreement has been structured to ensure no undue harm to Indian stakeholders while delivering tangible economic benefits.


Expected Timeline

The formal Interim Trade Agreement is expected to be signed in mid-March 2026, activating India's concessions and serving as the stepping stone to the full Bilateral Trade Agreement.


Read Joint Statements from:   INDIA   |   USA


Feb 2026: USA-India Trade Agreement Framework

US-India: Reset to focus on Long-horizon Strategy

US-India: Reshaping Trade Relations and Boundaries

US-India: Reshaping Trade Relations and Boundaries

US-India ITA Framework

Republic World: Hon. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal’s Interview With Arnab Goswami discussing the negotiations, red lines, and strategic outcomes.

US-India: Reshaping Trade Relations and Boundaries

US-India: Reshaping Trade Relations and Boundaries

US-India: Reshaping Trade Relations and Boundaries

Capital TV: India-US Trade Deal, Dr. Manish Kumar
Analyzes the framework, diplomatic achievements, and benefits for India's market access.

Joint Statement on Trade Agreement

India's Big Gain From US Tariff Relief

India's Big Gain From US Tariff Relief

India - US Bilateral Interim Trade Agreement Framework

Republic World: India-US Release Interim Joint Statement 

On The Historical Bilateral Trade Agreement, Republic World covers the details of the interim joint statement and its implications for bilateral trade.
Watch on YouTube

India's Big Gain From US Tariff Relief

India's Big Gain From US Tariff Relief

India's Big Gain From US Tariff Relief

NDTV: India's Big Gains

NDTV: Trump Trade Deal 

Focuses on the substantial export advantages and tariff reductions for Indian industries.
Watch on YouTube

Launch of India-GCC Free Trade Agreement Negotiations

India and GCC Media News

Launch of India-GCC 

Free Trade Agreement Negotiations


February 5, 2026 – India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC – comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) signed the Terms of Reference (ToR), formally launching negotiations for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA). Official Release Here.

 
Expected Timeline: Negotiations have begun; and talks are expected to progress swiftly. 

In Summary: 

Terms of Reference restart and formalizes FTA talks, aim agreement covering goods, services, investment, and economic cooperation. Bilateral trade reached approximately $179 billion in FY 2024-25 (India exports: ~$57-59 billion; imports: ~$120-122 billion, primarily energy). The FTA is expected to boost India's exports in sectors like food processing, petrochemicals, ICT, textiles, and gems/jewelers, while securing energy supplies and easing services trade for Indian professionals in the GCC.

Key Highlights 

  • Revives negotiations paused since 2010s. 
  • Potential to significantly increase trade volumes and diversify India's energy imports. 
  • Complements India's strategy of FTAs with key partners (following recent pacts with UAE, Oman, EU, US framework, etc.). 
  • Focus on balanced, mutually beneficial outcomes protecting sensitive sector 

Experience the change, and engage with this seamless, generational and global transformation.

 

India Chamber of Commerce USA
EU–India State Visit & FTA | Key Takeaways (Jan 25–27, 2026)


The joint visit of EU leaders António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen marked a defining moment in EU–India relations—uniting symbolism with scale.

  • Historic First: EU’s top leadership jointly honored as Chief Guests at India’s 77th Republic Day.
     
  • FTA Sealed: India’s largest-ever trade agreement concluded, spanning ~25% of global GDP and nearly 2 billion people.
     
  • Market Access: Over 99% of Indian exports gain preferential EU access, accelerating jobs and growth in key sectors.
     
  • Services & Mobility: Deep openings in IT, digital services, skilled mobility, and social security coordination.
     
  • Strategic Alignment: Expanded cooperation in defense, clean energy, and innovation amid global realignment.
     

Why It Matters
This landmark deal positions India at the center of global supply chains and opens powerful opportunities for global and U.S.-based businesses.

Jan 2026: EU and India Sign Free Trade Agreement

Presidential Welcome

India-EU Business Forum

India-EU Business Forum

India's Presidential Welcome to EU Leaders and delegates.

India President Murmu hosts President of the European Council and President of the European Commission

India-EU Business Forum

India-EU Business Forum

India-EU Business Forum

EU President and India PM Modi

 India-EU Trade Deal Signed As PM Modi, António Costa & Ursula von der Leyen Hail Pact.

Long-horizon Strategy

India-EU Business Forum

Long-horizon Strategy

EU & India Signs

 India and the EU are moving ahead with trust and ambition towards a prosperous as well as sustainable future! 

JanApr2025: India - News, Views, Reports

Apr2025: PM Modi holds bilateral meeting with US Vice President, JD Vance

Feb2025: Finance Minister, presenting India Budget 2025 to initiate transformative reforms

Apr2025: PM Modi meets Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum

Prime Minister Modi holds bilateral meeting with US Vice President, JD Vance

Apr2025: PM Modi meets Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum

Feb2025: Finance Minister, presenting India Budget 2025 to initiate transformative reforms

Apr2025: PM Modi meets Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum

Prime Minister Modi meets Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum 

Feb2025: Finance Minister, presenting India Budget 2025 to initiate transformative reforms

Feb2025: Finance Minister, presenting India Budget 2025 to initiate transformative reforms

 The Budget aims to initiate transformative reforms in Taxation, Power Sector, Urban Development, Mining, Financial Sector, and Regulatory 

India Secures Record Investments At World Economic Forum 2025 in Davos, Switzerland.

The Economic Surge Of Mahakumbh 2025: Opportunities in UP State for Retail, Hospitality, Local Busin

 With the summit drawing global leaders and policymakers, India was able to secure proposals worth over 20 lakh crore INR, emphasizing its strategic positioning on the world stage.

Maharashtra leading and finalizing agreements totaling 15.70 lakh crore INR [or USD 1.8 T] (MoUs), set to create approximately 16 lakh jobs across the state, underscoring the positive impact on local economies.

The Economic Surge Of Mahakumbh 2025: Opportunities in UP State for Retail, Hospitality, Local Busin

The Economic Surge Of Mahakumbh 2025: Opportunities in UP State for Retail, Hospitality, Local Busin

The Economic Surge Of Mahakumbh 2025: Opportunities in UP State for Retail, Hospitality, Local Busin

 The Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, anticipated to attract over 400 million visitors, is not just a spiritual congregation but also a significant economic event. The retail and hospitality sectors, in particular, are gearing up to harness this opportunity, with projections indicating economic activity worth Rs 2-3 lakh crore. 

The Rise of SaaS in India: Trends and Future Outlook, IBEF Report

The Economic Surge Of Mahakumbh 2025: Opportunities in UP State for Retail, Hospitality, Local Busin

The Economic Surge Of Mahakumbh 2025: Opportunities in UP State for Retail, Hospitality, Local Busin

IBEF: Revenue from India’s SaaS market is expected to grow from US$ 7.18 billion in 2023 to US$ 62.93 billion by 2032, indicating a CAGR of 27.3%. As of 2023, the country is home to more than one thousand SaaS companies with over 150 companies having annual revenues more than US$ 1 million.

IND NEWS: India’s Economic Leap Forward:

PM Modi's Top 5 Business Achievements

Business Achievements Transform Global Standing
ICCUSA | April 27, 2025


Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has solidified its position as a global economic powerhouse through transformative business reforms and initiatives. Over the past decade, Modi’s policies have driven unprecedented growth, attracting investments and fostering innovation. 


Highlights:


  1. Goods and Services Tax (GST): Unifying India’s Economy
    Launched in 2017, the GST revolutionized India’s tax landscape by replacing 17 indirect taxes with a single, streamlined system. This reform simplified compliance for 1.4 crore registered businesses and reduced logistics costs by 10-12%, saving billions annually. In April 2024, GST collections hit a record ₹2.10 lakh crore, reflecting robust economic activity. The reform has enhanced India’s ease of doing business, earning praise from global investors. Source: PM India. 
  2. Make in India: A Manufacturing Revolution
    Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024, the Make in India initiative has transformed India into a manufacturing hub. With $667 billion in FDI inflows from 2014-2024—a 120% increase from the prior decade—India’s manufacturing sector now contributes 17% to GDP. Electronics production soared to $155 billion annually, positioning India as a global supply chain leader. This achievement aligns with the Chamber’s mission to foster US-India trade. Source: Invest India. 
  3. Digital India and UPI: Powering Financial Inclusion
    The Digital India program, coupled with the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), has made India a global leader in digital payments. In 2024, UPI processed 1,200 crore transactions monthly, valued at ₹20 lakh crore, capturing 80% of global digital payment volume. Over 50 crore Jan Dhan accounts have brought 67% of Indians into the formal banking system, empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs. Source: NPCI. 
  4. PM GatiShakti: Redefining Infrastructure
    The PM GatiShakti National Master Plan, completed key phases by 2024, has integrated 1,500 infrastructure projects worth ₹15 lakh crore, with 400 finalized. By reducing logistics costs from 14% to 9% of GDP, it saves ₹10 lakh crore annually, boosting India’s Logistics Performance Index rank to 38. This initiative enhances connectivity, making India an attractive destination for US businesses. Source: PM GatiShakti. 
  5. Renewable Energy Leadership: A Green Future
    India’s renewable energy capacity reached 207.76 GW in 2024, a 4x increase since 2014, driven by initiatives like PM Surya Ghar. The addition of 6 GW between June and August 2024 and $12 billion in green investments underscore India’s commitment to sustainability. Self-sufficiency in solar production positions India to meet its 500 GW target by 2030, offering opportunities for US-India clean energy partnerships. Source: MNRE.


A Vision for Viksit Bharat

These achievements reflect PM Modi’s vision of a developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047, aligning with the India Chamber of Commerce USA’s goal of strengthening bilateral economic ties. As India continues to innovate and grow, US businesses are encouraged to explore opportunities in this dynamic market. For more details, visit indiachamber.org and drop us a line through our Contact Page.
 

Changing Skylines of Mumbai. 

Photo courtesy of Getty images via Unsplash.

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