India’s position on the global trade stage continues to strengthen even as geopolitics and economic uncertainties persist, according to Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. Speaking at the 5th National Exports Competitiveness Summit 2026, Goyal highlighted that India now enjoys preferential trade access to nearly two-thirds of global commerce, underscoring the country’s expanding market reach and deepening partnerships with major economies.
The summit convened senior government officials, policymakers, diplomats, industry leaders, and trade experts to deliberate on India’s roadmap toward achieving key export and economic goals. Goyal emphasised that India’s success in securing a wide range of trade agreements — including Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements (CEPAs) — has significantly enhanced market access for Indian goods and services in developed and emerging markets. These efforts have helped create business linkages across multiple continents while reducing vulnerability to external shocks.
Goyal also reiterated that trade negotiations are being pursued with select partners in a calibrated manner, reflecting India’s objective of securing mutually beneficial and sustainable agreements rather than entering deals hastily. This measured approach has helped India build trust with global partners, expand trade corridors, and attract foreign investment, even against the backdrop of tariff uncertainties and geopolitical tensions.
Beyond FTAs, India’s trade diplomacy includes ongoing discussions with nations across Africa, Europe, North America, and Asia to widen export opportunities, support exporters, and integrate Indian industry more deeply into global value chains. These developments signal India’s ambition to emerge as a reliable and resilient partner in the global trading system.
India’s strategic trade engagement — anchored in market access, partnership diversification, and measured negotiation — positions it to navigate global uncertainty while pursuing sustainable economic and export growth.