GTRI urged the Indian government to review the India-UAE Free Trade Agreement (CEPA), specifically calling for the withdrawal of duty concessions on precious metals and stricter rules of origin. GTRI warns that current provisions could harm India's domestic jewellery industry and facilitate misuse, leading to significant customs revenue loss and increased bullion imports.

The EU plans to enforce the CBAM, or carbon tax, starting January 1, 2026. However, beginning this October, companies in seven carbon-intensive sectors, such as steel, cement, fertilizer, aluminum, and hydrocarbon products, must report their carbon emissions data to the EU. GTRI warned that the fully implemented EU-CBAM would impose a 20-35% import tax on Indian firms. Additionally, the domestic industry would be compelled to disclose all plant and production details to the EU.

With the U.S. and the European Union (EU) reducing imports of electric vehicles from China, there's a risk that China could resort to dumping these products in countries like India.

Ajay Srivasatava, Founder of the Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), highlighted the inadequacies in branding, promotional activities, and limited access to global markets as factors contributing to the underperformance of Indian GI products internationally. He emphasized the importance of strengthening these areas to enhance the global presence and market value of Indian GI products.

"Everyone wants to do an FTA with India. The main reason for this is India's high import duties, which make it difficult for these countries to access India's large and rapidly growing market," the report said. It added that these three pacts with UK, Oman, and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) also reflect a shift in India's focus from east to west in terms of preferential trade partnerships.