India's 8th WTO Trade Policy Review on July 21, 23, 2026
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Economy
Why in news
India's 8th Trade Policy Review (TPR) at the WTO is scheduled for July 21 and 23, 2026. The review assesses India's trade and trade-related policies, highlighting its growing role in global trade. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal will lead the Indian delegation.
Background
WTO members undergo periodic TPRs based on their share of world trade. India's TPR occurs every five years. The 8th review covers January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2025. The process began in June 2025, involving over 100 ministries and organizations.
Key facts
India's 8th WTO Trade Policy Review (TPR) is scheduled for July 21 and 23, 2026.
The Indian delegation is led by Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal.
The review covers the period from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2025.
India's TPR is conducted every five years.
Over 100 ministries and organizations were consulted during the 14-month preparation.
India's total exports of goods and services reached a record $863.1 billion in 2025-26, up 6.3% from $676.5 billion in 2021-22.
WTO members have submitted over 900 written questions to India, reflecting high interest.
Key areas of questions include digitalization, MSMEs, women's economic participation, Viksit Bharat, and Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Over 40 WTO members are expected to make statements during the review.
The TPR is based on a policy statement by India and a report by the WTO Secretariat.
Prelims pointers
- WTO Trade Policy Review (TPR) mechanism
- Trade Policy Review Body (TPRB)
- Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal
- Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives
- GST rationalization and simplification
- Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
- India's export figures: $863.1 billion (2025-26)
- Frequency of India's TPR: every 5 years
Mains angles
- GS2: Role of WTO in global trade governance and India's engagement
- GS3: India's trade policy reforms, export performance, and digital initiatives
- GS3: Impact of trade policy reviews on domestic policy formulation
- GS2: India's stance on multilateralism and trade negotiations