New Delhi: Industry sees the proposed trade agreement as a potential inflection point for India’s integration into global value chains, with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) past president R Dinesh saying the pact could position the country as a reliable and dynamic hub for global trade and investment.
“With heightened focus towards innovation, efficiency, and sustainable growth, the agreement has the potential to position India as a reliable and dynamic hub for global trade and investment,” Dinesh said, underlining industry’s expectations from the deal.
Executives said the agreement could help improve market access for Indian manufacturers and services companies, while also encouraging multinational firms to deepen their presence in the country. A clearer framework for trade facilitation, standards harmonisation and supply-chain integration is expected to lower transaction costs and improve competitiveness, they added.
Industry leaders also see the pact supporting the government’s broader push on manufacturing, exports and value addition, especially in sectors such as electronics, auto components, chemicals and textiles. The emphasis on sustainability and efficiency, they said, aligns with global investors’ growing focus on resilient and responsible supply chains.
While details of the agreement are still being finalised, businesses are hopeful that faster customs processes, predictable regulations and stronger investment protection provisions will help unlock fresh capital flows and boost export-led growth.
Economists cautioned that the benefits will depend on swift implementation and complementary domestic reforms, but agreed that a credible trade framework could strengthen India’s positioning at a time when global companies are diversifying supply chains and rethinking sourcing strategies.