Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will travel to Japan from August 24 to 27, leading an over 200-member business delegation in what the government has described as India’s largest-ever trade delegation to the country.

Goyal’s four-day visit will cover Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka and focus on strengthening trade, investment and industrial cooperation between India and Japan. The delegation includes representatives from manufacturing, semiconductors, clean energy, steel, automobiles, financial services, healthcare and startups.

In Tokyo, Goyal is scheduled to hold meetings with senior executives of major Japanese business groups and industrial houses that have been long-term partners in India’s economic development. He will also participate in a roundtable with Keidanren, the Japan Business Federation, which represents more than 1,500 leading Japanese companies. Discussions will focus on areas including semiconductors and artificial intelligence, startups and engagement with foreign institutional investors.

The minister is also expected to hold bilateral talks with Japan’s Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Ryosei Akazawa. His schedule includes meetings with senior members of the Japanese government and Parliament, besides an interaction with the Indian community in Japan.

The visit will then move to Nagoya, one of central Japan’s major industrial hubs. Goyal will lead a roadshow with the Chubu Economic Federation and the Nagoya Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He is also scheduled to interact with the leadership of Aichi Prefecture and major investors in the automotive and steel manufacturing sectors.

The final leg of the visit will take place in Osaka, where Goyal will participate in an investor and business roadshow. Meetings with leading Japanese companies from the electronics, industrial and consumer sectors are expected to highlight investment opportunities in India’s manufacturing, clean-energy and consumer markets.

Japan has remained an important partner for India in investment, technology and industrial cooperation. Japanese companies have established a significant presence in sectors such as automobiles, steel, electronics, financial services and infrastructure.

The government said the participation of more than 200 business representatives from diverse sectors reflects the growing scope of India-Japan economic engagement. The visit is expected to provide fresh momentum to bilateral trade and investment while opening opportunities for cooperation in high-technology manufacturing and next-generation industries.

The focus on advanced manufacturing, clean energy, semiconductors and emerging technologies also aligns with India’s broader Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat@2047 objectives.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with US Vice President JD Vance over the phone on Saturday and discussed ways to further strengthen the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

The conversation comes at a sensitive stage in bilateral relations, with New Delhi and Washington continuing negotiations on a trade agreement while differences remain over India's purchase of Russian crude oil.

Modi said in a post on X that he and Vance discussed measures to deepen cooperation between the two countries across key areas.

The Prime Minister also congratulated Vance and his wife, Usha Vance, on the birth of their son and conveyed his best wishes to the family.

India-US Ties Face Fresh Challenges

The phone conversation comes amid growing uncertainty over the economic relationship between India and the United States.

The US Senate recently passed a broad Russia sanctions package that could allow the US president to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries continuing to purchase Russian oil, if the legislation ultimately becomes law.

India, as one of the major buyers of Russian crude, could potentially face consequences under such measures.

However, the legislation still requires consideration by the US House of Representatives before it can take effect.

Trade Deal Remains Key Issue

Trade negotiations remain another important component of the India-US relationship.

New Delhi and Washington had reached a framework for an interim trade agreement in February 2026, aimed at improving market access, strengthening supply chains and expanding economic cooperation.

Negotiations on a broader bilateral trade agreement have continued, with tariffs, market access and other economic issues remaining among the key areas under discussion.

A senior US official had said in July that a wider agreement could potentially be concluded within three to four months.

An Indian parliamentary panel has also called for an early conclusion of the trade agreement while recommending safeguards against possible US tariff measures.

Russian Oil Adds Complexity

India's continued purchase of Russian crude has emerged as a major point of friction between New Delhi and Washington.

India has maintained that its energy purchases are guided by national interests and market considerations. Russian oil became an important source of crude for Indian refiners after Western sanctions and restrictions following the Russia-Ukraine conflict altered global energy trade.

Washington's proposed sanctions could therefore add another layer of complexity to ongoing trade negotiations.

For India, the challenge is to protect its energy interests while maintaining the broader strategic relationship with the United States.

Focus on Strategic Cooperation

Despite differences over trade and energy, India and the US continue to expand cooperation across several strategic sectors.

These include defence, energy, critical and emerging technologies, critical minerals and resilient supply chains.

The two countries have increasingly described their relationship as a Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, reflecting cooperation that extends beyond traditional diplomatic and defence ties.

Modi-Vance Conversation

Modi's conversation with Vance indicates that both sides continue to keep the broader strategic relationship on the agenda despite ongoing disagreements.

The immediate challenges over tariffs, trade negotiations and Russian oil purchases could influence the economic side of the partnership, but cooperation in defence, technology and other strategic areas remains significant.

The next phase of India-US engagement is likely to focus on finding common ground on trade while managing differences over energy imports.

For New Delhi, maintaining strategic cooperation with Washington while protecting its economic and energy interests will remain a key diplomatic priority.

For Washington, balancing pressure over Russian oil with its wider strategic partnership with India could also prove important as both countries seek to expand cooperation in emerging technologies, supply chains and regional security.

Uzbekistan's Foreign Minister Saidov Bakhtiyor Odilovich has arrived in India on a four-day official visit aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries. The visit, scheduled from August 2 to August 5, will focus on expanding cooperation in trade, connectivity, investment, technology and regional security under India's Connect Central Asia policy.

The high-level visit comes as New Delhi and Tashkent seek to deepen economic and strategic engagement across multiple sectors.

High-Level Meetings Scheduled

According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the visiting foreign minister reached New Delhi on Sunday.

During the visit, he will call on President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan and hold delegation-level talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at Hyderabad House.

The discussions are expected to review the full spectrum of bilateral relations and identify new areas for collaboration.

Trade and Investment in Focus

A key highlight of the visit will be participation in a business forum in New Delhi, where the Uzbek foreign minister will interact with Indian industry leaders.

The forum is expected to promote greater investment and private-sector partnerships in sectors including:

• Pharmaceuticals

• Information Technology

• Manufacturing

• Emerging technologies

Both countries are looking to expand economic cooperation by encouraging greater business-to-business engagement.

Connectivity to Top Agenda

Improving connectivity between India and Central Asia is expected to be a major focus of the bilateral discussions.

The two sides are likely to explore ways to enhance regional trade through strategic connectivity projects such as:

• International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC)

• Chabahar Port in Iran

Strengthening these transport links is expected to improve access between India and Central Asian markets while boosting regional trade.

Strategic Cooperation

Apart from economic ties, India and Uzbekistan are expected to discuss cooperation in several strategic sectors, including:

• Critical minerals

• Digital public infrastructure

• Defence collaboration

• Counter-terrorism

• Regional security

The discussions reflect growing strategic convergence between the two countries amid evolving geopolitical and economic developments in the region.

Growing Bilateral Engagement

The visit follows a series of high-level interactions between New Delhi and Tashkent over the past year.

The two foreign ministers have already met on the sidelines of several international forums earlier in 2026, underlining the growing momentum in bilateral relations.

The latest visit is expected to further strengthen cooperation under India's broader engagement with Central Asia.

 India and Canada are working towards concluding negotiations on the proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) informed Parliament on Friday, signalling continued progress in bilateral trade relations after diplomatic ties resumed last year.

In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh said both countries have completed three rounds of negotiations, with the latest round held in Ottawa from July 6 to July 10, 2026.

The minister said discussions have advanced across multiple negotiating areas and both governments are working towards completing the agreement by late 2026.

Trade Pact to Boost Economic Cooperation

According to the MEA, the proposed CEPA is aimed at establishing a comprehensive free trade framework between India and Canada by reducing or eliminating tariffs and other trade barriers.

The agreement also seeks to facilitate greater trade in goods and services, improve investment flows, strengthen supply chains, enhance transparency in trade regulations, and deepen overall economic cooperation.

Officials believe the pact could significantly expand bilateral trade while creating new opportunities for businesses, exporters and investors in both countries.

Negotiations Gain Momentum

The government said negotiations have resumed at a steady pace following the restoration of diplomatic engagement between the two nations.

The three completed negotiation rounds have covered several chapters of the proposed agreement, including market access, trade facilitation, investment, services and regulatory cooperation.

Officials from both sides are expected to continue discussions over the coming months to resolve outstanding issues before the targeted conclusion next year.

Relations Improve After Diplomatic Reset

The MEA highlighted that India-Canada relations have witnessed positive momentum since the normalisation process began in June 2025.

A key milestone came during the G7 Leaders' Summit in Evian, France, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on June 16, 2026.

During the meeting, both leaders reviewed progress made in restoring bilateral engagement and expressed satisfaction over the improving relationship between the two countries.

Diplomatic Engagement Restored

The government said several confidence-building measures have already been implemented following the diplomatic reset.

These include:

• Restoration of High Commissioners in New Delhi and Ottawa.

• Gradual rebuilding of diplomatic staff at both missions.

• Resumption of bilateral dialogue mechanisms across multiple sectors.

• Revival of high-level political and official exchanges.

The MEA stated that these developments have created a conducive environment for advancing negotiations on the trade agreement.

Strategic Importance of CEPA

A comprehensive trade agreement is expected to strengthen commercial ties between two major economies that already share growing cooperation in education, technology, agriculture, clean energy and innovation.

Canada remains an important destination for Indian exports and investments, while India represents one of Canada's fastest-growing trade and investment partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

Industry experts believe a successful CEPA could improve market access for businesses, reduce trade costs and encourage greater cross-border investment while enhancing long-term economic cooperation.

With negotiations progressing and diplomatic relations stabilising, both countries are aiming to conclude the agreement before the end of 2026, potentially opening a new chapter in India-Canada economic relations.

India's textile and apparel industry has received a potential boost after the United States announced a revised tariff structure that places Indian exports under a 10% duty while key competitor Vietnam faces a 12.5% tariff. The change has sparked optimism among exporters, who see a rare pricing advantage in one of the world's largest apparel markets. However, industry leaders and trade experts caution that tariff benefits alone will not be enough for India to emerge as a global textile export leader.

For years, Vietnam has steadily expanded its dominance in global apparel exports through strong manufacturing ecosystems, integrated supply chains and multiple free trade agreements (FTAs). India's comparatively lower US tariff is expected to improve its competitiveness, but experts believe global sourcing decisions depend on much more than a marginal duty difference.

India Gains a Pricing Advantage

The latest US tariff revision places India in the lowest tariff bracket alongside Bangladesh, Indonesia, Cambodia and Malaysia. According to industry representatives, this gives Indian exporters a relatively level playing field against several Asian competitors while placing them in a better position than Vietnam and China.

However, concerns remain over the possible introduction of tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) for countries such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia and Malaysia. If implemented, these quotas could allow specified export volumes to enter the US at even lower tariff rates, reducing India's current advantage.

Industry experts note that while the revised tariff structure is encouraging, it should be viewed as an opportunity to strengthen India's position rather than as a guaranteed shift in global sourcing patterns.

Vietnam's Manufacturing Strength Remains Intact

Despite the tariff differential, Vietnam continues to enjoy significant structural advantages. It is the world's second-largest apparel exporter after China and serves as a major manufacturing base for leading international brands including Nike, Adidas, Puma, Gap, Under Armour and Lululemon.

Vietnam's strength lies in its integrated industrial clusters, efficient logistics, extensive free trade agreements and strong presence in synthetic and performance textiles. Experts believe these long-established supply chains cannot be relocated simply because of a 2.5 percentage-point tariff difference.

Existing investments are expected to remain in Vietnam, although future investments could increasingly consider India if the country addresses long-standing manufacturing challenges.

Structural Issues Continue to Hold India Back

Despite having one of the world's most comprehensive textile value chains—from cotton cultivation to garment manufacturing—India has struggled to match the export growth achieved by Vietnam and Bangladesh.

Former policymakers point out that India's production ecosystem remains highly fragmented. Cotton production, spinning, weaving, processing and garment manufacturing are spread across different regions, resulting in higher logistics costs, longer delivery timelines and lower manufacturing efficiency.

To address these challenges, the government has launched the PM MITRA Mega Textile Parks initiative, which aims to establish integrated textile manufacturing hubs where the complete value chain operates within a single ecosystem.

Industry experts believe these integrated parks could significantly improve productivity, reduce transportation costs and enhance India's competitiveness in global markets.

Shift Towards Synthetic Textiles Needed

Trade analysts argue that India's export strategy has remained heavily dependent on cotton products while global demand has increasingly shifted towards synthetic fabrics, sportswear and performance textiles.

Today, nearly two-thirds of global garment trade consists of synthetic and blended fabrics. In contrast, nearly two-thirds of India's apparel exports continue to be cotton-based.

Countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh have successfully capitalised on this shift by importing synthetic raw materials and focusing on value-added garment manufacturing. Experts believe India must significantly expand its presence in man-made fibre (MMF) products and technical textiles if it wants to increase its share in global apparel exports.

Compliance Matters More Than Tariffs

Industry leaders emphasise that international buyers increasingly prioritise product quality, timely deliveries, sustainability and regulatory compliance over marginal price differences.

Global brands now assess manufacturers based on environmental standards, green certifications, worker welfare, water consumption, childcare facilities and overall sustainability practices before awarding sourcing contracts.

Experts say Indian manufacturers must invest in cleaner production technologies, internationally recognised certifications and modern factory infrastructure to compete effectively in developed markets.

Europe May Offer Greater Opportunities

While the US tariff revision has generated attention, many exporters believe India's recently concluded trade agreement with the United Kingdom and the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement could create even larger opportunities.

European markets currently impose duties of around 10-12% on apparel imports. Duty reductions under future trade agreements could significantly improve India's competitiveness in Europe and attract fresh investment into the textile sector.

Industry representatives say European buyers have already begun exploring sourcing opportunities in India, although long-term gains will depend on the industry's ability to consistently meet global quality and sustainability standards.

Outlook

The revised US tariff structure provides India with a valuable short-term competitive advantage over some of its major rivals. However, experts agree that sustained export growth will depend less on tariff concessions and more on comprehensive structural reforms.

Expanding integrated textile parks, strengthening synthetic fibre production, improving logistics, adopting global sustainability standards and enhancing manufacturing efficiency will determine whether India can convert its current opportunity into long-term leadership in global textile exports.

India-UK Free Trade Agreement Comes Into Effect Today: Whisky, Luxury Cars, Fashion to Get Cheaper; Indian Exports Receive Zero-Tariff Access

India and the United Kingdom's landmark Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) officially came into force on Wednesday, marking one of India's most significant bilateral trade deals in recent years. The agreement is expected to reduce prices of several imported British products in India while providing Indian exporters duty-free access to almost the entire UK market.

Under the agreement, 99% of Indian goods will now enter the UK without import duties, while India will gradually reduce tariffs on 99% of British products, bringing the average import tariff down from around 15% to nearly 3%. Policymakers from both countries believe the pact could help double bilateral trade to nearly USD 120 billion by 2030.

The agreement was signed on July 24, 2025, after nearly three-and-a-half years of negotiations involving 14 formal rounds. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade Jonathan Reynolds signed the pact in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

British Products to Become More Affordable

Consumers are expected to see a phased reduction in prices of several premium British products.

Import duty on Scotch whisky and gin has been reduced from 150% to 75%, with a further reduction to 40% planned over the next decade. Industry estimates suggest premium Scotch whisky could become substantially more affordable as tariff reductions are implemented.

Luxury automobiles from brands such as Jaguar Land Rover and Rolls-Royce will also benefit from sharply reduced duties under a quota-based system, potentially lowering retail prices by 20–30%.

The agreement also cuts tariffs on products including salmon, lamb, chocolates, biscuits, soft drinks, cosmetics, medical devices, aerospace components, branded clothing, furniture and selected electronics, making many imported British goods more competitively priced in India over time.

Export-Oriented Industries Set to Gain

The FTA is expected to provide a major boost to India's export-driven sectors.

Indian textiles and apparel, which previously attracted import duties of 8–12% in the UK, will now enjoy duty-free access, improving competitiveness against exporters from Bangladesh and Vietnam. Manufacturing hubs such as Tiruppur, Surat and Ludhiana are expected to benefit from increased export demand.

The agreement also removes tariffs on Indian jewellery, leather goods, engineering products, machinery, auto components, marine products, tea, spices, basmati rice, chemicals and speciality materials, creating fresh opportunities for exporters.

Indian pharmaceutical companies are expected to benefit from simplified registration procedures for generic medicines, allowing faster entry into the UK's healthcare market.

MSMEs and Green Investment

Officials believe the agreement will strengthen India's Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which contribute nearly 40% of the country's exports. Easier market access is expected to improve margins and expand business opportunities for smaller exporters.

The agreement also encourages greater British investment in information technology, financial services, renewable energy, green hydrogen, electric vehicles and clean technology, supporting India's manufacturing ambitions and energy transition goals.

Sensitive Sectors Protected

While the agreement significantly liberalises trade, India has kept several sensitive sectors outside the tariff reduction framework.

Products including dairy items, apples, cheese, oats, selected edible oils, along with certain industrial products such as specific plastics, diamonds, silver, smartphones, optical fibre products and telecom equipment, remain protected under the agreement.

Strategic Trade Partnership

Trade experts describe the India-UK agreement as part of New Delhi's broader strategy to strengthen economic partnerships with major global economies. Following agreements with Australia, the UAE and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), India is now actively pursuing comprehensive trade deals with the European Union and the United States.

Government officials expect the agreement to increase exports, attract investment, strengthen supply chains and create employment across manufacturing and labour-intensive industries over the coming decade.

Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Monday embarked on a five-day official visit to Spain, Belgium and Finland as India intensifies efforts to strengthen economic ties with the European Union (EU) and accelerate negotiations on the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

The visit, scheduled from July 13 to July 17, brings together a high-level Indian business delegation and is expected to focus on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, digital technology, innovation and sustainable development.

According to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the tour is aimed at reinforcing India's long-term strategic partnership with Europe while creating new opportunities for businesses and investors on both sides.

FTA Negotiations in Focus

A key objective of the visit is to advance discussions on the proposed India-EU Free Trade Agreement, which both sides hope will simplify market access, strengthen supply chains and promote sustainable economic growth.

The government believes the agreement will provide a significant boost to bilateral trade by reducing barriers, improving investment flows and supporting a rules-based global trading system.

Officials also expect the ongoing negotiations to enhance cooperation in emerging technologies, manufacturing, innovation and economic security.

Spain Visit to Strengthen Economic Cooperation

During his visit to Spain, Goyal is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with senior members of the Spanish government, including Carlos Cuerpo Caballero, First Vice President and Minister of Economy, Trade and Business; Jordi Hereu Boher, Minister of Industry and Tourism; and José Manuel Albares Bueno, Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation.

The discussions will focus on expanding bilateral trade, attracting investments and promoting industrial collaboration between India and Spain.

Goyal will also chair the India-Spain Business Roundtable, where leading Spanish companies and industry organisations will explore investment opportunities in India and discuss avenues for strengthening commercial partnerships.

In addition, he will participate in a business interaction organised by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce, CEOE and ICEX Spain Trade and Investment.

Belgium to Host Trade and Technology Talks

In Belgium, the Commerce Minister will visit the Port of Antwerp and the Antwerp World Diamond Centre, reflecting the importance of logistics, shipping and the gems and jewellery sector in bilateral trade.

He is also scheduled to hold CEO-level meetings with executives from Thales Group and Silox Group to discuss cooperation in defence, advanced technology, manufacturing and investment.

A major highlight of the Belgium visit will be Goyal's participation in the third ministerial meeting of the India-EU Trade and Technology Council (TTC) in Brussels.

The council serves as the highest institutional platform for cooperation between India and the European Union on trade, trusted technology, digital transformation and economic security. The meeting is expected to review progress on existing initiatives while identifying new opportunities for strategic collaboration.

Finland Focuses on Innovation

The final leg of the tour will take Goyal to Finland, where he is scheduled to meet Dr. Sakari Puisto, Finland's Minister of Economic Affairs.

The minister will also interact with representatives of leading Finnish companies during the India-Finland Business Roundtable, with discussions expected to centre on innovation, technology partnerships, industrial development and investment opportunities.

Finland is regarded as an important partner for India in sectors such as clean technologies, digital innovation, sustainable manufacturing and research collaboration.

Strengthening India's Global Economic Partnerships

The Ministry of Commerce said the three-nation visit reflects India's broader strategy of deepening engagement with Europe at a time when both sides are seeking resilient supply chains, diversified investment destinations and stronger technology partnerships.

Officials believe the visit will not only help accelerate negotiations on the India-EU Free Trade Agreement but also reinforce India's position as a trusted global partner in manufacturing, innovation, clean energy and sustainable economic development.

The outcomes of the visit are expected to contribute to stronger business partnerships, increased investments and closer strategic cooperation between India and Europe across multiple high-growth sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed a gathering of nearly 30,000 members of the Indian diaspora in Melbourne on Thursday during his official visit to Australia, describing his third visit to the country in 12 years as a "hat-trick" while highlighting the growing strategic partnership between India and Australia.

The event, attended alongside Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, celebrated the deepening people-to-people ties between the two nations. National anthems of both countries were played before the leaders addressed the gathering.

Speaking to the audience, Modi recalled his landmark 2014 visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Australia in 28 years. "When I visited Australia in 2014, I had said you would not have to wait another 28 years. This is my third visit in the last 12 years—a hat-trick of visits," he said, drawing applause from the crowd.

India, Australia Sign Key Agreements

The visit also marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations, with India and Australia announcing agreements across several strategic sectors, including defence, trade, energy, space, and critical minerals.

One of the major announcements was Australia's decision to begin supplying uranium to India, a move expected to support India's clean energy programme and long-term nuclear power expansion.

The two countries also agreed to jointly develop a Critical Minerals Corridor, aimed at strengthening supply chains for minerals essential to emerging technologies and clean energy.

In the space sector, both sides announced plans to establish a space tracking terminal on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands, which will support India's ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.

Focus on Energy and Investment

Addressing business leaders and the Indian community, Modi said India and Australia are emerging as trusted partners amid global geopolitical and energy challenges.

He reiterated India's target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 and 100 GW of nuclear power generation by 2047, noting that Australian uranium and advanced technologies would contribute significantly to these goals.

The Prime Minister also invited Australian businesses to invest in India's rapidly expanding infrastructure sector, including ports, airports, highways, railways, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, data centres and digital technologies.

He said India's exports to Australia have doubled since the implementation of the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) and expressed confidence that negotiations for a comprehensive trade agreement would be concluded soon.

Cricket Analogy Draws Cheers

Using a cricket analogy familiar to audiences in both countries, Modi described India-Australia relations as a perfect blend of all formats of the game.

"Our meetings have the focus of a One-Day International, decisions are taken with the speed of a T20 match, and our partnership is as strong and enduring as a Test match," he said.

The remarks received enthusiastic applause from the diaspora gathering.

Education and Sports Collaboration

The Prime Minister also highlighted the growing educational partnership between the two nations.

He noted that thousands of Indian students are pursuing higher education in Australia and pointed out that Australian institutions, including Deakin University and the University of Wollongong, have already established campuses in India. He added that several other Australian universities are preparing to expand their presence in the country.

Modi also said sports continue to strengthen ties between India and Australia, while reaffirming India's ambition to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and bid for the 2036 Olympic Games.

Warm Community Welcome

Earlier in the day, Modi met Victoria Governor Margaret Gardner at Government House, where he was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour. He also participated in the Australia-India CEO Forum before attending the community event.

Members of the Indian diaspora welcomed the Prime Minister with cultural performances, including Kathak dance and a fusion performance featuring renowned didgeridoo artist Ron Murray and tabla player Dr. Sam Evans.

Sharing photographs from the event on social media, Modi described the cultural welcome as a reflection of the vibrant bond between India and Australia.

The visit underscores the expanding strategic, economic and cultural partnership between the two Indo-Pacific democracies, with both governments signalling their commitment to strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors in the coming years.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has begun his three-nation visit to Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand, with the tour expected to further strengthen India's strategic partnerships, expand economic cooperation and deepen people-to-people ties across the Indo-Pacific region.

The visit, which started on July 6, is scheduled to continue until July 11. During the tour, the Prime Minister will hold bilateral meetings with the leaders of all three countries and interact with members of the Indian diaspora.

Before departing, Modi said the visit reflects India's commitment to its Act East Policy, MAHASAGAR Vision, and a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

Indonesia Visit Underway

The Prime Minister is currently in Indonesia at the invitation of President Prabowo Subianto. This marks Modi's first bilateral visit to the country since 2018, when India and Indonesia elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The visit follows President Prabowo's State Visit to India earlier this year, when he attended the Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2025, as the Chief Guest.

During his stay in Indonesia, Modi is expected to hold delegation-level talks with President Prabowo covering key areas of bilateral cooperation. He is also scheduled to meet members of the Indian community and visit the historic Prambanan Temple Complex in Yogyakarta, highlighting the centuries-old cultural and civilisational links between the two countries.

Australia Visit Next

After concluding his Indonesia engagements, Prime Minister Modi will travel to Melbourne at the invitation of Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

The two leaders are expected to review progress in the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and discuss ways to enhance cooperation in defence and security, trade and investment, education, transport, emerging technologies, sports and sports science.

The Prime Minister will also interact with the Indian diaspora in Australia, which he described as an important pillar of bilateral relations.

New Zealand to Be Final Leg

The final leg of the visit will take the Prime Minister to Auckland, where he will meet New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon.

The discussions are expected to build on the momentum created during Prime Minister Luxon's visit to India in March 2025. Both countries are expected to focus on expanding economic, trade and commercial cooperation while exploring new opportunities under the recently signed Free Trade Agreement.

Modi is also scheduled to address members of the Indian community in New Zealand, recognising their contribution to strengthening bilateral ties.

Focus on Indo-Pacific Cooperation

The Prime Minister said the three-nation tour demonstrates India's growing engagement with countries across the eastern and southern Indian Ocean region.

He expressed confidence that the visit would further strengthen partnerships in strategic sectors, enhance regional cooperation and reinforce India's vision of a secure, prosperous and rules-based Indo-Pacific.

The tour is expected to give fresh momentum to cooperation in trade, connectivity, technology, security and cultural exchanges while reaffirming India's commitment to closer engagement with key Indo-Pacific partners.

India and Japan have strengthened their strategic partnership with the signing of six key agreements during high-level bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Japanese leadership. The agreements cover a range of sectors, including defence, technology, infrastructure, economic cooperation and people-to-people exchanges, reflecting the growing depth of ties between the two countries.

The discussions focused on expanding cooperation under the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to working together for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific while enhancing collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

Among the major outcomes of the meeting were agreements aimed at boosting economic and industrial cooperation, promoting investment, strengthening supply chain resilience and expanding collaboration in emerging technologies. The leaders also reviewed progress on ongoing infrastructure and connectivity projects being implemented with Japanese support in India.

Defence and security cooperation featured prominently during the talks. India and Japan agreed to deepen coordination in maritime security, regional stability and defence exchanges. Both countries reiterated the importance of maintaining peace, security and the rule of law in the Indo-Pacific region.

The meeting also highlighted cooperation in clean energy, green technologies and sustainable development. Officials from both sides discussed opportunities to accelerate partnerships in renewable energy, digital innovation and advanced manufacturing to support long-term economic growth.

Trade and investment remain key pillars of the bilateral relationship. The two countries expressed confidence that stronger business collaboration and improved industrial partnerships would create new opportunities for companies operating in both markets. Japan continues to be one of India's major investors, particularly in infrastructure, manufacturing and transportation projects.

The leaders also underlined the importance of strengthening educational, cultural and people-to-people exchanges. They discussed expanding academic collaborations, skill development initiatives and tourism to further reinforce the long-standing friendship between the two nations.

The latest agreements come at a time when India and Japan are seeking to diversify global supply chains and increase cooperation in strategic sectors amid evolving geopolitical and economic challenges. Analysts believe the agreements will further enhance bilateral cooperation while supporting regional stability and economic resilience.

Officials said the implementation of the signed agreements will be taken forward through regular institutional mechanisms and ministerial-level engagements. Both governments reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close coordination on regional and global issues while expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

The six agreements are expected to provide fresh momentum to the India-Japan partnership, reinforcing collaboration in defence, technology, trade, infrastructure and sustainable development in the years ahead.

India imports about 65% of the raw materials needed to make medicines from China, NITI Aayog said Tuesday, warning that heavy dependence on a single country or region leaves the pharmaceutical supply chain vulnerable.

Speaking while releasing the Trade Watch quarterly report, NITI Aayog Vice‑Chairperson Ashok Kumar Lahiri said the “Middle East crisis” has underlined the need to diversify suppliers for critical inputs such as medicines, oil and gas. “We should not depend on one country or region,” he told reporters, adding that India must ensure multiple sources for energy and other essential supplies so crises do not disrupt domestic availability.

The report — which also presents data on India’s overall imports‑exports and energy sector — found that while India is a global leader in producing affordable generic drugs, much of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and other chemical inputs still come from China. Officials said the finding supports recent policy discussions on securing supply chains and boosting domestic capability.

Lahiri urged negotiators to include a dedicated pharmaceuticals chapter in any free trade agreement (FTA). “When negotiating FTAs with countries or blocs, a separate chapter on pharmaceutical products should be included,” he said, according to excerpts shared by the Aayog. The recommendation reflects concerns that tariff and non‑tariff provisions must specifically protect and promote India’s pharma value chain.

The report also highlighted rising costs for R&D and manufacturing in India. Stricter environmental rules, Lahiri noted, have pushed up the cost of running production facilities and carrying out research into new drugs. “Environmental regulations have become quite tight. That has increased the cost for companies to produce medicines and pursue new R&D,” he said. The Aayog suggested that India’s system for translating academic research into commercial products needs strengthening to attract long‑term investors.

India’s strength remains production. The Aayog’s study concluded that India performs well on drug manufacturing but needs to move up the value chain — into higher‑margin, branded and innovative products — to capture greater global value. “Indian firms have good international credibility. If they bring high‑quality, reasonably priced branded products, our grip on global markets can strengthen,” Lahiri said.

The report also underlined India’s role as a supplier of affordable generics worldwide: about half of the low‑cost medicines exported from India go to African countries. In 2025, global demand for medicines and inputs was estimated at roughly ₹123.13 lakh crore (about $1.3 trillion), of which about ₹96.61 lakh crore went to finished medicines and roughly ₹24.72 lakh crore to chemicals and raw materials used by drug makers, the Aayog noted.

To reduce dependence on imports and build resilience, the Aayog offered a set of policy suggestions:

• Encourage Indian firms to move beyond generics into high‑value pharmaceutical segments.

• Strengthen links from college and university research to industry so discoveries commercialise faster.

• Make regulatory approvals for life‑sciences innovation clearer, faster and more transparent to draw patient long‑term investment.

• Include pharma‑specific provisions in FTAs and pursue bilateral deals — Lahiri said India and the US are close to finalising a bilateral trade pact and expected to sign it soon.

Experts and industry sources say the challenge is not only policy but capacity and investment. Building API manufacturing at scale requires capital, land, and trained personnel; cleaning up chemical manufacturing to meet environmental norms adds to costs. The Aayog’s recommendations aim to balance ecological compliance with incentives for domestic production.

Further details on timelines, funding packages or specific incentives were not available in the report. Authorities are reviewing follow‑up measures, and officials said more clarity on implementation will be provided as the government consults industry stakeholders.

Why it matters
India’s dependence on China for pharma inputs is a strategic vulnerability for public health and industrial policy. Any disruption — from geopolitical tensions to supply shocks — can affect drug availability and prices at home and for countries that rely on Indian exports. Moving up the value chain would also help India capture higher margins and reduce exposure to external suppliers.

Further details are awaited as policymakers and industry leaders discuss the Aayog’s recommendations and the implications for upcoming trade talks.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the United States; talks covered defence, trade, energy and Indo‑Pacific cooperation

Marco Rubio met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Seva Teerth in New Delhi on Saturday and extended an invitation from US President Donald Trump for a state visit to the United States, officials said. The meeting — held in the morning at the prime minister’s residence complex — came days after Mr. Trump’s high-profile trip to China and was framed by some US outlets as an effort to shore up relations in Asia.

What happened
According to government sources and news agency reports, the bilateral session brought together senior officials from both sides, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor and US Under Secretary Allison Hooker. Discussions covered defence cooperation, trade, energy, strategic technologies and coordination on Indo‑Pacific issues, officials familiar with the talks said.

Ground cues and timing
Rubio’s visit to India began in Kolkata earlier in the week, where he visited Mother Teresa House and met local stakeholders. He arrived in New Delhi on Saturday evening for the meeting with the prime minister and will remain in the country for several more days. His stopover precedes a Quad foreign ministers’ meeting in the capital, scheduled for Tuesday, which Rubio will attend alongside counterparts from Australia and Japan.

Officials’ input
“Productive discussions focused on deepening cooperation in security, trade and critical technologies,” US Ambassador Sergio Gor said in a statement after the meeting. He added that stronger collaboration would support “a free and open Indo‑Pacific,” and called India a vital partner for the United States. Indian officials described the exchange as constructive but declined to disclose details on timelines or specific agreements.

Context: Trump’s China trip
Rubio’s outreach follows Mr. Trump’s visit to Beijing last week, during which the US president publicly praised Chinese President Xi Jinping. Several US media outlets portrayed Rubio’s trip as partly a damage‑control measure meant to reassure regional allies unsettled by Washington’s warmer tone toward Beijing. “The visit appears aimed at reaffirming commitment to partners in Asia,” one US analyst told local reporters on condition of anonymity.

Indo‑Pacific and Iran
Sources said the two sides reviewed developments in West Asia, including the evolving Iran situation, and explored options for coordination. Indian and US officials plan to keep lines of communication open on regional security, according to people briefed on the meetings. The Quad session next week is expected to further discuss shared strategic priorities in the Indo‑Pacific and coordinate on ongoing projects.

Economic and tech strands
Trade and critical technologies were central to the talks, with both sides signalling interest in accelerating cooperation in semiconductors, clean energy and defence manufacturing. Discussions also touched on energy security and avenues to expand bilateral investment, particularly in green technology and supply‑chain resilience.

Public impact and local reaction
In New Delhi, reactions were muted and cautious. Diplomatic observers said an invitation for a state visit is significant symbolically but noted that follow‑up — scheduling, protocol and agendas — will determine the diplomatic payoff. Business groups tracking US‑India ties welcomed continued engagement, saying clearer roadmaps on trade and technology would help investors.

Next steps and outlook
Rubio is slated to deliver remarks at the US Embassy Support Annex Building dedication and attend a reception at Roosevelt House hosted by Ambassador Gor. On Sunday he will hold talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and participate in the US Embassy’s Independence Day events. He will then travel to Agra and Jaipur before returning to New Delhi for the Quad meeting.

For now, officials from both capitals emphasised sustained dialogue. Whether Rubio’s outreach translates into concrete timelines for a Modi visit to Washington or new bilateral pacts will depend on follow‑up negotiations and calendar coordination in coming weeks.