India Reaffirms Commitment to Rules-Based Multilateral Trading System at WTO TPR
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Economy
Why in news
India's 8th Trade Policy Review (TPR) at the WTO began in Geneva on July 21, 2026. Commerce Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal led the delegation, emphasizing India's strong economic performance and record exports of $863.1 billion. The review, attended by 65 WTO members, assesses India's trade policies from January 2021 to December 2025.
Background
The WTO Trade Policy Review is a periodic exercise where members' trade and related policies are examined. India's previous review was in 2021. The current review covers a period of global uncertainty, technological shifts, and rising protectionism.
Key facts
India's 8th WTO Trade Policy Review held on July 21 and 23, 2026 in Geneva.
Commerce Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal led the Indian delegation.
India's average annual growth rate during the review period was about 8%.
India's exports reached a record $863.1 billion in 2025-26.
India reiterated commitment to a transparent, rules-based, inclusive, and development-oriented multilateral trading system.
65 WTO members participated in the review discussions.
India highlighted reforms: Jan Vishwas Initiative, trade facilitation, digital customs, logistics modernization, quality infrastructure, digital public infrastructure, AI, innovation, sustainability, and regional trade agreements.
India supported balanced and development-focused WTO reforms.
Chair of TPRB, Ambassador Nele Pepe Tawita Levi, praised India's progress towards 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047 and leadership in digital services exports and digital public infrastructure.
India deposited its 'Instrument of Acceptance' for the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement on the previous day.
Prelims pointers
- WTO Trade Policy Review (TPR) mechanism
- 8th TPR of India (2026)
- Commerce Secretary: Rajesh Aggarwal
- Record exports: $863.1 billion (2025-26)
- Viksit Bharat 2047 vision
- Fisheries Subsidies Agreement (WTO)
- Instrument of Acceptance
- Jan Vishwas Initiative
- Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme
- South-South cooperation
Mains angles
- Discuss the significance of WTO Trade Policy Reviews in ensuring transparency and accountability in global trade.
- Critically examine India's trade policy reforms and their impact on achieving the 'Viksit Bharat' vision.
- Analyze the role of digital public infrastructure in enhancing trade facilitation and financial inclusion, with reference to India's experience.
- Evaluate India's stance on WTO reforms and its balancing act between protecting domestic interests and promoting multilateralism.