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International Trade
Welcome to the UPSC Study Hub for International Trade, a critical and dynamic component of your International Relations and Economy preparation. Understanding international trade is not merely about memorizing definitions;
54 articles in this topic
Articles on International Trade
Colombia Joins Belt and Road Initiative
In News Colombia formally agreed to join Chinas Belt and Road infrastructure initiative. Chinas Economic Influence US Concerns China is now the largest trading partner of several Latin American countries (Brazil, Chile, Peru). China is expanding its footprint through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), while the U.S.
US & China have Agreed to Temporarily Slash Tariffs
Context The U.S. and China agreed to suspend most tariffs on each other’s goods. Why were Tariffs Levied?
Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Signed Between UK-India
Context India and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement (FTA) after nearly three years of negotiations. What is a Free Trade Agreement or FTA? FTAs are arrangements between two or more countries or trading blocs that primarily agree to reduce or eliminate customs tariff and non tariff barriers on substantial trade between them.
India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Negotiations
Context The India–UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations have hit fresh hurdles, primarily due to the UK’s proposed Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) or carbon tax. Background The India–UK FTA negotiations were formally launched in 2022, as part of efforts to deepen economic cooperation and boost bilateral trade. As per data from FY 2023–24, the trade volume between the two countries reached $21.34 billion, an increase from $20.36 billion in the previous fiscal year.
USTR Releases 2025 “Special 301 Report” on Protecting Intellectual Property Rights
In News The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) released its 2025 Special 301 Report assessing the adequacy and effectiveness of intellectual property (IP) rights protection and enforcement by U.S. trading partners. The “Special 301” Report It is an annual review of the global state of IP protection and enforcement.
China Restricts Exports of Rare Earths
In News Recently, China announced restrictions on the export of seven Rare Earth Elements which includes samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium, and yttrium following U.S. President Trump’s tariff impositions. Rare Earth Elements (REEs) They are a set of 17 chemical elements in the periodic table — cerium (Ce), dysprosium (Dy), erbium (Er) etc.
India Ends Transshipment for Bangladesh Exports
Context India has formally revoked the transshipment facility that allowed Bangladesh to export goods to third countries via Indian land customs stations, ports, and airports. Transshipment Agreement Introduced in 2020 by India’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), the agreement aimed to enhance regional connectivity and trade cooperation. Under this arrangement, cargo from Bangladesh could pass through Indian Land Customs Stations (LCSs) en route to ports and airports.
Weaponization of Trade and Finance
Context The Defence Minister of India highlighted the erosion of global order and multilateralism, driven by the weaponization of trade, finance, and emerging technologies. What is Weaponization of Trade and Finance? Weaponization of trade and finance refers to the strategic use of trade policies and economic measures by countries to exert political or economic pressure on others.
USA’s ‘Reciprocal Tariffs’ on India & World
In a significant move, US President Donald Trump announced ‘reciprocal tariffs’ on imports from various countries, including India, aimed to address trade imbalances but sparked global concerns about economic stability and diplomatic relations.
India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement
India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (Ind-Aus ECTA) marked its third anniversary.
Making America Great Again (MAGA) Effect Outside the US
Donald Trumps aggressive trade policies, particularly the imposition of higher tariffs, have had global economic repercussions.
US-China trade war 2.0
The ongoing trade war between the United States and China has caused significant global economic turbulence, influencing everything from tariffs on goods to the financial markets and international relations.
India and New Zealand resumed trade deal talks after decade
India and New Zealand announced the resumption of negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) .
EAM Visit United Kingdom (UK)
The External Affairs Minister (EAM) paid an official visit to the United Kingdom.