India has reiterated its commitment to an open, inclusive, transparent and rules-based multilateral trading system. During the final session of India’s Eighth Trade Policy Review at the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal said WTO reform should remain development-oriented, preserve policy space for developing countries, strengthen the Organisation’s credibility and deliver on existing mandates. He reaffirmed that reform is a continuous process and highlighted India’s commitment to an open, transparent and predictable trade and investment regime.
Mr Agarwal said India’s tariff reforms, customs simplification measures and ambitious Free Trade Agreement strategy have steadily strengthened the country’s integration with the global economy while supporting domestic development objectives. He also highlighted India’s progress in financial inclusion, digital commerce, logistics modernisation and environmental sustainability, while reaffirming the country’s commitment to an inclusive and innovation-driven growth model.
During the two review sessions held on 21 and 23 July, 68 WTO members made interventions, reflecting growing global interest in India’s economic transformation. Mr Agarwal thanked the members for their active participation and the keen interest shown in India’s trade policies.
