INDIA ISRAEL FREE TRADE PACT
India, Israel ink bilateral investment treaty
India and Israel have formalized a bilateral investment treaty (BIT) aimed at boosting investment flows between the two nations. The agreement, signed by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her Israeli counterpart Bezalel Smotrich in New Delhi, comes as both countries are actively engaged in negotiations for a free trade agreement.
Israel warns Hamas to surrender or face 'annihilation'
Israel's defence minister told Hamas on Monday to lay down its arms or face annihilation, after US President Donald Trump said the militant group must accept a deal to release hostages in Gaza. Trump said Sunday he was issuing a "last warning" to the group, insisting it accept a deal to release the hostages seized during militants' October 2023 attack.
After issuing 'last warning' to Hamas, Trump eyes Gaza deal 'soon'
Donald Trump issued a final ultimatum to Hamas, urging them to accept a hostage release deal, claiming Israel has already agreed to his terms. Hamas acknowledged receiving proposals from mediators and is discussing ways to advance them, reiterating its demand for a permanent ceasefire and complete Israeli withdrawal. Trump anticipates a deal soon, expecting the return of all hostages.
Trump issues 'last warning' to Hamas to accept hostage deal
Donald Trump issued a final ultimatum to Hamas, urging them to accept a hostage release deal, claiming Israel has already agreed to his terms. The proposed agreement involves Hamas freeing all remaining hostages on the first day of a truce in exchange for thousands of Palestinian prisoners. An Israeli official confirmed Israel is seriously considering Trump's proposal.
A Houthi drone strikes an Israeli airport in a rare hit as Israel steps up Gaza City attacks
Yemen's Houthi rebels escalated attacks on Israel, striking Ramon Airport and prompting flight diversions after Israeli strikes killed a Houthi leader. Meanwhile, Israel intensified its Gaza offensive, leveling another high-rise and urging evacuations, even as a court ordered improved conditions for Palestinian detainees. Trump claimed a ceasefire agreement, but both Israel and Hamas remain at odds over key conditions.
India, Israel to sign bilateral investment treaty this week
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's upcoming visit to India aims to strengthen economic ties, with the signing of a bilateral investment treaty (BIT) expected. This BIT seeks to protect investors and boost confidence through assured treatment and dispute resolution. Discussions will also lay the groundwork for a free trade agreement (FTA) to further enhance trade between the two nations.
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India is upcoming superpower with a lot of talent, says DG Israel Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Eden Bar Tal, Director General of Israel's Ministry, praised India. He called India an upcoming superpower with excellent human resources. Israel aims to strengthen ties with India. They want to collaborate with the Indian government and businesses. Reuven Azar highlighted Israel's water management technologies shared with India. Both nations share perspectives on opportunities and threats.
ET Graphics: India, EU to hold 13th round of FTA talks in Delhi; pact likely by year-end
European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maroš Šefcovic, is also expected to visit India later this week as both sides attempt to finalize the trade pact by the end of the year.
India, EU working on series of transformative initiatives besides eyeing to seal FTA by December
India and the European Union are set to intensify negotiations for a free trade agreement, aiming to resolve differences on rules of origin, market access, and duties. High-level meetings are planned, including visits by EU officials and committees, to finalize the deal by year-end.
Trump signs order to lower US tariffs on Japan autos to 15%
Donald Trump, the US President, signed an order. This order lowers tariffs on Japanese autos. Japanese autos will now face a 15-percent tariff. Earlier, it was 27.5 percent. Many other goods will also have a 15-percent cap. This is a win for Japan. The changes apply retroactively to goods shipped from August 7.
Modi discusses early conclusion of FTA talks with EU leaders
Narendra Modi spoke with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. They talked about the Free Trade Agreement and the Ukraine situation. They stressed the importance of the India-EU partnership. They also discussed progress in trade, technology and other sectors. The leaders want to finalize the India-EU FTA soon.
EU trade chief heads to India as deal talks make 'rapid progress', New Delhi says
EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic is scheduled to visit New Delhi next week, signaling significant advancements in the ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement. Indian trade minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the "rapid progress" made in discussions with the EU, aiming for a deal by year-end. This development occurs amidst recent tariff hikes by the U.S. on Indian goods.
Aluminium extrusion industry body seeks review of import duties, FTAs to offset US tariff impact
ALEMAI urges the government to address import duties, FTAs, and policies to boost domestic aluminium consumption and counter US tariffs. India's aluminium extrusion industry faces underutilization due to imports, despite its 3 million tonnes capacity. Increased local consumption and production can enhance global competitiveness and offset tariff impacts, fostering growth in sectors like construction and renewable energy.
Jaishankar pushes for swift India-EU FTA
India seeks a swift conclusion to free trade agreement talks with the European Union. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar discussed this with his German counterpart Johann Wadephul. Germany pledged its support for the India-EU FTA. Discussions also covered boosting ties in economy, climate, defence and technology.
India raises exporters’ mobility, visa, non-tariff barriers issues in EU with Germany
During a meeting in New Delhi, India addressed migration, visa processes, and non-tariff barriers impacting Indian exporters in the EU, including Germany. Minister Goyal and Foreign Minister Wadephul agreed to collaborate on resolving these issues to facilitate smoother trade.
India raises concerns over mobility, non-tariff barriers faced by Indian exporters in EU
India has voiced concerns to Germany regarding migration, visa processes, and non-tariff barriers impacting Indian exporters in the EU. Both nations have committed to collaborative efforts aimed at resolving these issues and fostering smoother trade relations. The ministers also discussed doubling bilateral trade in goods and expanding trade in services.
India-EFTA trade pact with sustainability clause to take effect on October 1
The free trade agreement between India and the EFTA bloc, set to take effect on October 1, includes legally binding provisions on trade and sustainable development. India has secured a USD 100 billion investment commitment over 15 years, leading to the creation of one million direct jobs. Switzerland gains improved market access for 94.
Hope to finalise US trade pact by November, says Piyush Goyal
Piyush Goyal anticipates concluding a trade agreement with the US by November. Trade talks with the European Union are progressing well. Relations with China are improving as border tensions decrease. India has already finalized trade agreements with Mauritius, Australia, EFTA, the UK, and the UAE. India aims to be self-reliant by ensuring resilient supply chains.
India ups the tempo in diversifying trade deals
India is accelerating its efforts to diversify export markets amid trade tensions with the US, actively pursuing new trade agreements with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), the European Union (EU), and the South African Customs Union (SACU).
India FTA boosts business confidence in volatile world, UK Parliament told
The India-UK Free Trade Agreement, signed by Prime Ministers Modi and Starmer, aims to slash trade tariffs significantly, boosting business confidence. UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds stated the deal will reduce Indian tariffs on UK products from 15% to 3%, potentially increasing bilateral trade by £25.5 billion.
India in talks to construct 1 million houses worth $500 bn in Australia: Piyush Goyal
Union Minister Piyush Goyal has said that India is chalking out a deal with Australia to build a million homes in the country. The project worth $500 billion could be funded by the UAE. Indian workers will also be trained in Australia for the purpose. Further, India is in talks with several nations including Australia, New Zealand, Oman and the EU for a free trade agreement amid US tariffs.
Agri, dairy concessions to US disruptive; IP, digital issues may fly under radar: NGOs, trade unions, others
Farmers' associations and other groups are cautioning against trade concessions to the United States. They believe these concessions could harm Indian farmers and agro-biodiversity. Concerns include potential changes to intellectual property laws. These changes might impact the generic medicine industry. The groups urge government consultation with stakeholders. They want input on ongoing Free Trade Agreement negotiations.
Giving concessions to US on agri, dairy sectors will have disruptive impacts: Forum for Trade Justice
Forum for Trade Justice cautioned that granting concessions to the US in agriculture and dairy under a trade pact would severely impact Indian farmers and agro-biodiversity. The organization highlighted that US demands could force changes in India's policies, overriding its sovereignty.
Commerce Ministry working on short, medium, long-term steps to shield exporters from US tariffs
The Commerce Ministry is developing action plans to support exporters. These plans include easing liquidity, leveraging trade agreements, and diversifying into new markets. The government aims to build a resilient export base through SEZ reforms and supply chain initiatives, mitigating the impact on vulnerable sectors and promoting long-term competitiveness.
Qatar wants to negotiate trade pact with India: Piyush Goyal
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced that a Free Trade Agreement with Oman will be finalized soon, with Qatar and Saudi Arabia also expressing interest in similar agreements. He assured exporters of government support amidst global uncertainties and highlighted efforts to diversify exports. Goyal also noted progress in FTA talks with the European Union.
India hopeful of resuming BTA talks with US soon; tariffs key
India anticipates restarting talks with the United States on a proposed bilateral trade agreement. Resolving the 50% tariff issue on Indian goods is crucial for the deal. The government considers support for exporters, including an export promotion mission. Washington seeks tariff reductions on various products. India's exports to the US rose in April-July FY26.
India may seek EU for concessions on lines of its deal with US
India will push to bridge gaps in trade talks with the EU next month, seeking carbon tax concessions similar to the US deal. With a year-end deadline, India aims to expand market access after pacts with the UK and EFTA. The government plans export diversification to 50 countries, new promotion measures, and targeted outreach, including textiles in 40 markets.
European Trade Commissioner may visit India next month, FTA on agenda
European Commissioner for Trade Maros Sefcovic is expected to visit India next month to assess the progress of FTA negotiations with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. This visit is anticipated towards the end of the 13th round of negotiations scheduled for September 8. Both sides aim to conclude negotiations by the end of this year.
No compromise on red lines, sensitivities in India-US trade pact, sources say
India and the US are in talks for a trade agreement. Discussions hinge on addressing key concerns. India prioritizes protecting farmers, fishermen, and small businesses. The US seeks tariff reductions on agricultural products. Both nations aim to boost bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030. They plan to finalize the first phase by fall 2025.
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