📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Embassy of the Philippines, New Delhi
Business
India seeks balanced ASEAN trade pact as bilateral trade reaches $128 billion
✍️ Moneycontrol.com
🗓 25 Sep 2026, 06:18 AM
👁 12
India is urging a balanced free‑trade agreement with ASEAN after bilateral commerce climbed to $128 billion.
New Delhi is pressing for a more balanced free‑trade agreement with the ten ASEAN nations, saying that the current negotiations should reflect equitable benefits for both sides. The call comes as the total value of India‑ASEAN bilateral trade has risen to $128 billion, underscoring the growing economic interdependence between the regions.
Trade officials highlighted that the $128 billion figure marks a significant milestone, demonstrating the depth of market access and supply‑chain linkages that have developed over recent years. They noted that sectors such as pharmaceuticals, information technology, and automotive components are driving much of the growth.
In response, Indian policymakers have signalled that any final pact must avoid asymmetrical rules that could disadvantage domestic producers. While detailed negotiations are still underway, the emphasis on balance is expected to shape the next round of talks slated for later this year.
Analysts say that a balanced agreement could boost investment flows, enhance competitiveness, and solidify India’s role as a key trading partner in the Indo‑Pacific economic architecture.
Trade officials highlighted that the $128 billion figure marks a significant milestone, demonstrating the depth of market access and supply‑chain linkages that have developed over recent years. They noted that sectors such as pharmaceuticals, information technology, and automotive components are driving much of the growth.
In response, Indian policymakers have signalled that any final pact must avoid asymmetrical rules that could disadvantage domestic producers. While detailed negotiations are still underway, the emphasis on balance is expected to shape the next round of talks slated for later this year.
Analysts say that a balanced agreement could boost investment flows, enhance competitiveness, and solidify India’s role as a key trading partner in the Indo‑Pacific economic architecture.