India Reaffirms Commitment to Rules-Based Multilateral Trading System at WTO Trade Policy Review in Geneva

Key Highlights:

• India's 8th Trade Policy Review (TPR) commenced at the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Geneva.
• India reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent, rules-based, and development-oriented multilateral trading system.
• The review period covers India's trade policies from 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2025.
• India recorded an average annual economic growth of nearly 8% and exports reached USD 863.1 billion in 2025-26.
• India accepted the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, depositing its Instrument of Acceptance.
• Key reforms like Aatmanirbhar Bharat and advancements in Digital Public Infrastructure were highlighted.

Detailed Insights:

• The TPR mechanism allows WTO Members to assess India's trade and related policies.
• India is undertaking the task of advancing prosperity for nearly one-fifth of humanity amid global uncertainties.
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat aims to strengthen domestic capabilities while integrating India into global value chains.
• Reforms include the Jan Vishwas Initiative, trade facilitation, digital customs, and logistics modernization.
• India's leadership in digitally delivered services exports and Digital Public Infrastructure was acknowledged.
• The TPRB Chair recognized India's progress towards the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
• The discussant commended India's Goods and Services Tax (GST) for unifying the national market.
• India's Duty-Free Tariff Preference Scheme for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) was also appreciated.
• India's development-oriented reforms offer valuable lessons for other developing countries.
• Members sought clarifications on trade and investment regimes, Quality Control Orders (QCOs), and trade remedy measures.
• An exhibition showcasing Indian craftsmanship and innovation was organized alongside the review.

Key Concepts Involved:

• World Trade Organization (WTO): An intergovernmental organization that regulates and facilitates international trade between nations.
• Trade Policy Review (TPR): A regular mechanism by which the WTO assesses the trade policies and practices of its member countries.
• Multilateral Trading System: A global framework of rules and agreements governing international trade among multiple countries, primarily under the WTO.
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat: India's vision for a self-reliant nation, focusing on boosting domestic production and integrating into global supply chains.
• Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Open and interoperable digital systems like Aadhaar and UPI that facilitate public and private services.
• WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies: An international agreement aimed at prohibiting harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to overfishing and overcapacity.