Post-2014 FTAs Stronger, More Balanced Than Earlier Deals, Says Government Presentation

New Delhi: The Centre has claimed that the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) negotiated since 2014 are stronger, more balanced and better designed to protect India's economic interests than those signed in earlier years.

According to a government presentation, the new generation of FTAs places greater emphasis on reciprocal market access, protection for sensitive domestic sectors and provisions that support India's long-term trade and manufacturing objectives. The presentation argued that the approach marks a shift from earlier agreements, which had often been criticised for contributing to widening trade deficits.

Officials said the government's trade policy now prioritises agreements that provide tangible benefits to Indian exporters while ensuring that domestic industries are not exposed to unfair competition. The presentation highlighted that negotiations are now based on extensive stakeholder consultations and detailed sectoral assessments before commitments are finalised.

The government also pointed to recent trade agreements with countries and regional partners as examples of a more calibrated strategy. These agreements, it said, seek to expand opportunities for sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, engineering goods, information technology services and agriculture, while incorporating safeguards where necessary.

According to the presentation, India has adopted a more cautious and strategic approach in ongoing trade negotiations, focusing on securing better access for Indian goods and services in global markets without compromising national economic priorities.

The Centre further stated that post-2014 FTAs include stronger rules relating to origin verification, customs cooperation and dispute resolution, aimed at preventing misuse of trade concessions. Such provisions, officials argued, help ensure that the benefits of preferential trade arrangements reach genuine exporters and manufacturers.

Trade experts note that India's FTA strategy has evolved significantly over the past decade, reflecting changing global supply chains, geopolitical developments and the country's ambition to become a major manufacturing and export hub. They say the effectiveness of these agreements will ultimately be measured by growth in exports, investment flows and employment generation.

Opposition parties and some economists, however, have urged the government to periodically review the performance of trade agreements, arguing that the long-term impact on domestic industries, small businesses and trade balances should be closely monitored.

The government maintained that its trade policy is aimed at enhancing India's global competitiveness while safeguarding national interests. It said future FTAs would continue to be negotiated with an emphasis on balanced outcomes, sustainable economic growth and increased opportunities for Indian businesses in international markets.